Genetic Counsellor - Familial Breast Cancer Research Unit

This is a Temporary Casual position (up to 3 months) Type: New Position!   Job Description Provides genetic counselling to patients in the Integrated Hereditary Breast and Preventive Ovarian Cancer Program by performing duties such as: Developing and completing patients’ medical and family history by conducting interviews with patients and their family members, through traditional and virtual medium. Explaining the hereditary cancer pattern in the patient’s family and the cancer risks associated with that pattern Recommending cancer screening based on the family history and standard hereditary cancer guidelines Explaining genetic susceptibility testing and the associated potential benefits and harms and schedules genetic testing as appropriate Contacting genetic counselling centres outside of Toronto and across Canada to organize genetic counselling and testing for patients and family members as required Referring patients to WCH services and health professionals such as the Breast Centre, social worker, nurse navigator, surgeons and specialists as necessary Documenting a variety of patient information including personal and family medical history, risk assessments, cancer surveillance strategy and progress reports and outcomes. Requesting medical records and other relevant patient health care information from hospitals and physicians as required Responding to patient questions regarding cancer risks and disease management in consultation with the referring physician, the medical geneticist, oncologists or other health professionals as required. Reviewing and triaging referrals to the Integrated Hereditary Breast and Preventive Ovarian Cancer Program by assessing the family history based on eligibility criteria and determining the urgency of the appointment. Provide patients and families with emotional support, coping strategies and linkage to hospital and community resources and support Provide cancer risk assessments for patients eligible for OBSP Assumes a leadership role in influencing clinical practice and patient outcomes and collaborates with the broader health care regarding complex and challenging patient care situations  Establishes a caring and therapeutic relationship with patients; demonstrates trust, respect, honesty and provides counseling and other interventions as required Assist patients and families in overcoming barriers within the health care system to ensure timely delivery of services   Support the advancement of research in the area of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. An integral part of the research team. The genetic counsellor may perform the following duties: Support the collection of data for ongoing studies within the research program Collaborate with research team members on various studies Involvement in data analysis and interpretation Contributes in the development of program policies and procedures by reviewing, discussing and providing input in current and new research, policies and procedures Contributes in the development and implementation of new services and procedures in the area of hereditary cancer through methods such as providing input on the effectiveness of counselling services within the program, identifying opportunities for change and quality improvement   As a role model and champion you will work to identify and integrate safe, best practices into daily activities to foster the delivery of safe and exemplary care.The responsibilities described above are representative and are not to be construed as all-inclusive.   Qualifications Graduate of an accredited Master’s program in Genetic Counselling Board eligible or Board Certified with the Canadian Association of Genetic Counsellors and/or the American Board of Genetic Counselling Previous related experience in a hospital or clinical research setting preferred Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with patients, families, other professional staff, and the general public Demonstrated understanding of hereditary cancer syndromes, genetic testing and clinical guidelines Demonstrated ability to form positive therapeutic alliance and to work independently and co-operatively as part of a multidisciplinary team within a research environment Demonstrated understanding of adult education strategies, teaching and learning principles, and advanced therapeutic communication techniques Strong familiarity with design and conduct of quantitative and/or qualitative research Ability to develop collaborative working relationships with a wide variety of internal and external stakeholders including community organizations, and hospitals Excellent critical thinking, problem solving, organization, and time management skills Well-developed verbal and written communication, interpersonal, and teaching skills Proficient with Electronic Medical Record, Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and navigation of the Internet Demonstrated commitment to a patient/family centred care environment Evidence of ongoing professional development, continuing education and leadership experience Demonstrated good attendance record with the ability to maintain this same standard Professional behavior and communication that meets the standards of the professional regulatory college or association, as applicable, and the standards of Women’s College Hospital Legally entitled to work in Ontario, Resides in Ontario This position plays a critical role in acting as an advocate for safety and will demonstrate principles, practices and processes that will optimize a safe environment for all