Genetic Counseling Assistant

About the role

Building Location: Building A - Duluth Clinic - 1st Street

Department: 2901670 GENETIC COUNSELING - EH DC

About the role

The Genetic Counseling Assistant (GCA) will be responsible for providing administrative support to the genetic counseling team. In support of the clinical staff, the GCA will interact with patients, clinical providers, and other medical professions, as well as insurance companies and testing labs through all aspects of the genetic counseling and testing process. The GCA will work collaboratively with the Genetic Counselors to ensure clinic efficiency. Additionally, the GCA will promote understanding of the genetic counseling profession.

Key Responsibilities

• Case preparation
• Processing of genetic testing documentation and laboratory send-outs
• Contacting patients pre- and post-visit
• Conduct scientific review of the literature
• Assist with education and resource collection
• Perform clerical duties (faxing, filing, mailing, copying, etc.)

Additional information

The GCA will be provided opportunities to learn about the roles and responsibilities of genetic counselors. Activities may include case observation, attendance at case conferences, and educational seminars.

Genetic Testing Coordination and Documentation

• Process genetic testing documentation and laboratory send-outs.
• Prepare, coordinate, and ship genetic testing kits as needed.
• Track patient genetic testing status, results, and turnaround times.
• Flag results or testing concerns for genetic counselor review as appropriate.
• Enter and maintain patient information, pedigrees, test orders, and test results in the electronic health record EHR or other tracking systems.
• Ensure accurate and timely documentation throughout the testing process.

Patient and Provider Communication

• Serve as a liaison between patients and genetic counselors.
• Communicate with patients regarding appointments, follow-up needs, testing updates, and other important information.
• Coordinate scheduling of follow-up appointments as needed.
• Communicate professionally and sensitively with patients, clinical providers, laboratories, and other healthcare professionals by phone, electronically, and in person.
• Help ensure patients receive timely and appropriate information throughout the genetic counseling and testing process.

Insurance and Administrative Support

• Contact insurance companies to facilitate genetic testing coverage.
• Assist with prior authorization and related insurance documentation when required.
• Perform general administrative duties, including faxing, filing, mailing, copying, scanning, and document management.
• Maintain organized records and support efficient clinic operations.
• Maintain strict confidentiality and comply with HIPAA and all patient privacy standards.

Preferred Qualifications

• Basic knowledge of genetic concepts and medical terminology.
• Experience with electronic health record EHR systems.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Excel and Outlook.
• Excellent organizational skills and strong attention to detail.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to learn quickly and adapt to new processes.
• Ability to multitask and remain organized in a fast-paced clinical environment.
• Ability to communicate effectively and sensitively with patients and healthcare professionals, both over the phone and in person.
• Ability to interact compassionately and professionally with patients.
• Ability to work efficiently both independently and as part of a team.

Required/Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in one of the following areas (biology, healthcare, health sciences, genetics, psychology, sociology, anthropology or related field).
• or
• A minimum of five years of relevant clinical work experience, including administrative and scheduling experience.
• This is a casual position.

Licensure/Certification Qualifications

• No certification/licensure required.
• FTE: 0

Possible Remote/Hybrid Option

• Shift Rotation: Day Rotation (United States of America)
• Shift Start Time: 0800
• Shift End Time: 1630

Weekends

• Holidays: No
• Call Obligation: No

Compensation Range

$19.86 - $29.79

Employee Benefits at Essentia Health

At Essentia Health, we're committed to supporting your well-being, growth, and work-life balance. Our comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, along with supplemental options to fit your needs.

We offer a 401(k) plan with employer contributions to help you plan for the future, and we invest in your professional development through training, tuition reimbursement, and educational programs. To help you thrive both at work and at home, we provide flexible scheduling, generous time off, and wellness resources focused on your physical, mental, and emotional health. Please note that benefit eligibility may vary.

For full details, refer to your benefit summary or contact our HR Service Center at.