Oncology Genetics Counselor

Virginia Mason Franciscan Health has a rich history of providing exceptional healthcare, dating back to 1891. Building upon a legacy of compassionate care and innovation, our organization has evolved over the years through strategic partnerships and integrations to expand our reach and services across the Puget Sound area.

Today, as Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, we remain deeply committed to healing the whole person – body, mind, and spirit – in the communities we serve. This commitment is strengthened by the diverse expertise and shared values brought together through our growth.

Our dedicated providers offer a full spectrum of health care services, from routine wellness to complex disease management, all grounded in rigorous research and education. Our comprehensive network of 10 hospitals and nearly 300 care sites strategically located across the greater Puget Sound region reflects our ongoing commitment to accessibility and comprehensive care.

We are proud of our pioneering medical advances and numerous awards and accreditations that reflect our dedication to excellence. When you join Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, you become part of a team that delivers top-quality, professional healthcare in modern, well-equipped facilities, and contributes to a legacy of service built on collaboration and shared purpose.

Job Summary:

The Genetic Counselor develops and implements genetic counseling services including intake and coordination of patients into the program, assessments of risk for hereditary cancers and other disorders, need for testing and pedigree analysis, and supportive education and counseling to patients and families.

Essential Job Functions:

• Provide genetic counseling and education to patients and their families regarding heredity cancer syndromes.
• Work closely with physicians and genetic counselors to assure patient genetic testing is appropriate and approached in such a manner that aligns with organizational values.
• Responsible for marketing the service to our cancer physicians, including education regarding risk assessment for appropriate referrals. 
• Understand insurance billing for the service and options for payment or charity care for the uninsured.
• Responsible for identifying risks for genetic syndromes, explaining inheritance patterns, prognosis and testing information, and provide supportive counseling for patients.
• Educate patients and the community about familial cancer, provide clear options for medical and surgical interventions and enhance quality of life for high-risk cancer patients.
• Develop written materials for the patients and providers regarding inherited cancer syndromes with predictive testing for cancer susceptibility genes. Serves as resource to patients, families, staff and physicians.
• Maintain detailed records of patient information (including pedigrees, consultative reports, telephone communications and other notes for analysis and reporting.
• Work with local and national resources to provide services necessary for diagnosis and treatment.
• Participate in local support groups, survivorship education and community awareness events and fundraising activities.
• Maintain knowledge of current trends and developments in genetic counseling and epidemiology of disease.
• Serve as a required member of Cancer Committees at and attend weekly tumor board meetings.

Education/Work Experience Requirements:

Master’s Degree in genetic counseling required.

Licensure/Certification:

• Board certified (or board eligible) by the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) upon hire.
• Certified Genetic Counselor (CGC) within 12 months of hire.