Genetic Counsellor

The aim of the service is to provide cancer genetic counselling including cancer risk estimation, information about genetic studies, predictive genetic testing, cancer screening and prevention (if appropriate) to individuals with a family history of cancer.

The post holder must comprehend the medical facts of a patient’s case, including the diagnosis, probable course of the disorder, and the available management. The post holder must appreciate the way in which heredity contributes to the disorder, and the risk of recurrence in specified relatives. They should understand the alternatives for dealing with the risk of recurrence playing a vital role in providing one off and on going support to patients and their families.

The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust is a world-leading cancer centre. Our role is to offer our patients the best cancer care available anywhere in the world, and to continue to make a global contribution to finding better ways of diagnosing and treating cancer. We employ over 4,500 staff in a diverse range of careers including nursing, medical, science, radiography, pharmacy, occupational therapy, finance and administrative services. We have two hospitals - one in Chelsea, London, and one in Sutton, Surrey - as well as a Medical Daycare Unit in Kingston Hospital.

At The Royal Marsden, we deal with cancer every day, so we understand how valuable life is. When people entrust their lives to us, they have the right to demand the very best. That's why the pursuit of excellence lies at the heart of everything we do.

At the heart of the hospital is our dedicated team. We offer a stimulating and dynamic working environment, a wide range of staff benefits, learning and development opportunities and clear career pathways. There are opportunities to work flexibly across a range of areas and specialities and we welcome flexible working requests from point of hire to support employees work life balance. We are looking for employees who aspire to excellence, share our values and can play a crucial role in our on-going achievements.

For further information on this role, please see the attached detailed Job Description and Person Specification.

2.1 To manage an individual caseload via face to face and telephone clinic consultations, consulting with Consultant staff as appropriate
2.2 To calculate risks of patients and families being affected by various genetic disorders, the risks of recurrence and the carrier risks. This can involve making decisions where expert opinion differs or some information is unavailable. In order to do this, sourcing and interpreting complex scientific papers and genetic test results may be needed.
2.3 To verify histology of reported cancers and arrange collection of archival material when needed (with appropriate consents) for clinic counselling.
2.4 To help maintain the department’s research portfolios
2.5 To arrange diagnostic genetic testing for cancer patients and predictive genetic testing for unaffected individuals within the protocols of the unit.
2.6 To liaise with molecular diagnostic laboratory staff outside the trust to ensure all necessary information to inform a patient’s consultation is available in clinic
2.7 To seek medical and other allied healthcare expertise as required on behalf of patients attending clinic where appropriate.
2.8 To facilitate the management of the Trust’s 11-week waiting time target in conjunction with the cancer genetic service administrator and other genetic staff.
2.9 To maintain strict confidentiality at all times.