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Appendix B: Examples of Health ProfessionsGenetic Counselors Genetic
counselors provide information and support to families whose members have
birth defects or genetic disorders, and to families who may be at risk
for a variety of inherited conditions. They investigate the family
problem, interpret information about the disorder, analyze inheritance
patterns and risks, and review available options with the family.
Genetic counselors use their counseling skills, combined with a background
in medical genetics, to assist families through emotional times.
Counselors may choose to focus on one aspect of genetics such as pediatric
genetics, cancer genetics, neurogenetics, or prenatal treatment.
Genetic counselors work in private practice, commercial research laboratories,
public health clinics, health maintenance organizations, or Federal
agencies. Most, however, are employed by hospitals or university
medical centers, where they are concentrated in pediatric and obstetric
departments. Full-time, 40-hour business weeks are standard for
genetic counselors, although some hospitals may request that they be on
call for emergency situations.
Master's degrees in genetic counseling can be obtained from one of the 23 training programs throughout the country. Graduate course work includes medical genetics, counseling topics, and hands-on experience in the field. An undergraduate degree in a biological science, psychology, public health, or other related field is usually necessary for admission into one of these training programs. The American Board of Genetic Counseling conducts a certification examination for those who qualify. *The genetic counselor's salary will vary by geographical location, work setting, and years of experience. New graduates should expect to earn an entry level salary of approximately $28,000. With experience, a genetic counselor can earn up to $53,000 a year. Currently, there are close to 1,500 practicing genetic counselors in the United States. The small number of training programs and the small size of each graduating class ensures that the demand for genetic counselors will be large in the near future. As advances are made in genetic testing, prenatal screening and reproductive technologies, the need for genetic counseling will grow. *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2000-01 Edition. Copyrighted by: The National Health Council, October 1998; reproduced with permission by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Further reproduction prohibited without permission of copyright holder, www.nationalhealthcouncil.org. |
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