Genetic Counselors
By: Sumani N.
What Is A Genetic Counselor?
Genetic counselors meet with families about their genetic history. They analyze risk for inherited birth defects and genetic disorders. They also communicate this information to healthcare providers. Counselors use genetics to predict whether a baby is likely to have hereditary disorders, like Downs Syndrome or cystic fibrosis. They can also use genetics to test whether an adult will develop some kind of chronic disease, or cancer. They can identify these conditions through DNA analysis and lab testing. Counselors often perform these tests themselves, but medical personnel may perform them and the counselor will just analyze the results. The information is shared with health professionals such as physicians, in addition to patients and their families.
Where Would You Work?
Genetic counselors often work in university medical centers, private and public hospitals, physician's offices, and diagnostic laboratories. They work with families, patients, and other medical professionals. They usually work full time and have a standard work schedule.
Education
To become a genetic counselor, you will need at least a Master's degree in genetic counseling or genetics. Some counselors also attain a doctorate. Coursework in genetic counseling includes public health, epidemiology, psychology, and developmental biology. Classes emphasize genetics, public health, and patient empathy. Advanced courses focus on clinical observations, review of previous genetic research, and health communication strategies.
Salary and Job Outlook
The median annual wage for a genetic counselor in 2012 was $56,800. The lowest 10% earned around $25,000 and the highest 10% earned more than $87,000. Genetic counselors who work in specialty hospitals earn the most, and counselors who work in physician's offices earn the least. Employment of genetic counselors is expected to grow 41% from 2012 to 2022, which is much faster than the average job. This is probably because of recent medical advancements in genetic testing.