The definition of "genetic counseling" can have real legal implications when it comes to licensure. While we all understand that a license is needed to provide "traditional" genetic counseling to patients, the lines can blur when we start talking about less traditional GC roles. What if you're just "providing education" and not completing a full session? What if you're providing consults to doctors but not patients directly? What if your job title is Lab Genetic Counselor but you don't talk to patients at all? The answers to these questions usually lie in the state's definition of a genetic counselor's scope of practice (though those answers are still murky sometimes!).
We've complied the scope of practice section of each state's GC licensure law below. If you have a different medical license that covers these services (MD, NP, PA, etc), you don't also need a GC license to perform them. But if you don't have another medical license, you'll need to make sure you have a genetic counseling license before providing any of the following services in the states below. We're not lawyers, so check with legal counsel if you have any questions as to whether your job duties might require a license.
(P.S. Have I mentioned we're not lawyers? We're not lawyers. Thanks.)
(P.P.S. For a list of laws focused on whether or not GCs can order genetic tests, click here.)
(P.P.P.S. Obligatory disclaimer: the laws below are subject to change and may not be fully up to date [and also we're not lawyers.])
State | Definition of Genetic Counseling/Scope of Practice |
|---|---|
Alabama | GENETIC COUNSELING. The provision of services by a genetic counselor to do any of the following: a. Obtain and evaluate individual, family, and medical histories to determine genetic risk for genetic or medical conditions and diseases in a patient, his or her offspring, or other family members. b. Discuss the features, natural history, means of diagnosis, genetic and environmental factors, and management of risk for genetic or medical conditions and diseases. c. Identify, recommend, and coordinate genetic tests and other genetic related diagnostic studies as appropriate for the genetic assessment consistent with practice-based competencies provided by the ACGC. d. Integrate genetic test results and other genetic-related diagnostic studies with personal and family medical history to assess and communicate risk factors for genetic or medical conditions and diseases. e. Explain the clinical implications of genetic tests and other genetic related diagnostic studies and their results. f. Evaluate the responses of the client or family to the condition or risk of recurrence and provide client-centered counseling and anticipatory guidance. g. Identify and utilize community resources that provide medical, educational, financial, and psychosocial support and advocacy. h. Provide written documentation of medical, genetic, and counseling information for families and health care professionals. An individual who does not hold a valid license issued by the board may not do any of the following: (1) Engage in the practice of genetic counseling in this state. (2) Hold himself or herself out as a genetic counselor. (3) Use, in connection with his or her name or place of business, any of the following terms: a. Genetic counselor. b. Licensed genetic counselor. c. Gene counselor. d. Genetic consultant. e. Genetic associate. f. Any words, letters, abbreviations, or insignia indicating or implying the individual holds a genetic counseling license. |
Alaska | No licensure law |
Arizona | No licensure law |
Arkansas | (1) "Genetic counseling" means the process of assisting individuals with understanding and adapting to the medical, psychological, and familial implications of genetic contributions to disease, which includes without limitation: (A) Interpreting family and medical histories to assess the chance of disease occurrence or recurrence; (B) Educating an individual or an individual's family about inheritance, testing, management, prevention, resources, and research; (C) Counseling an individual or an individual's family to promote informed choices and adaption to the risk or condition; (D) Estimating the likelihood of occurrence or recurrence of any potentially inherited or genetically influenced condition, which may involve: (i) Obtaining and analyzing a complete health history of the individual and the individual's family; (ii) Reviewing the pertinent medical records; (iii) Evaluating the risks from exposure to possible mutagens or teratogens; and (iv) Discussing genetic testing to assist in the diagnosis of a condition or determine the carrier status of one (1) or more family members; (E) Assisting the individual, the individual's family, the individual's healthcare provider, or the public to: (i) Appreciate the medical, psychological, and social implications of a disorder, including the features, variability, usual course, and management options of the disorder; (ii) Learn how genetic factors contribute to the disorder and affect the chance for recurrence of the condition in other family members; (iii) Understand available options for coping with, preventing, or reducing the chance of occurrence or recurrence of a condition; and (iv) Understand genetic tests, including without limitation diagnostic genetic tests, screening tests, or predispositional genetic tests, coordinate testing for inherited disorders, and interpret complex genetic test results; and (F) Facilitating an individual's or an individual's family's: (i) Exploration of the perception of risk and burden associated with a genetic disorder; (ii) Decision-making regarding testing or medical interventions consistent with their beliefs, goals, needs, resources, culture, and ethical or moral views; and (iii) Adjustment and adaption to the condition or their genetic risk by addressing the need for psychological, social, and medical support; A person shall not use or assume the title "licensed genetic counselor" or "genetic counselor" or use any words, letters, abbreviations, or insignia indicating or implying that the person holds a genetic counselor license unless the person is licensed by the Arkansas State Medical Board. |
California | “Genetic counseling” means: (a) Obtaining and evaluating individual, family, and medical histories to determine genetic risk for genetic/medical conditions and diseases in a patient, his/her offspring, and other family members; (b) Discussing the features, natural history, means of diagnosis, genetic and environmental factors, and management of risk for genetic/medical conditions and diseases; (c) Identifying and coordinating genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies as appropriate for the genetic assessment. Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to authorize a genetic counselor to diagnose or treat any genetic disease or condition or other disease or condition; (d) Integrating genetic laboratory test results and other diagnostic studies with personal and family medical history to assess and communicate risk factors for genetic/medical conditions and diseases; (e) Explaining the clinical implications of genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies and their results; (f) Evaluating the client's or family's responses to the condition or risk of recurrence and providing client-centered counseling and anticipatory guidance; (g) Identifying and utilizing community resources that provide medical, educational, financial, and psychosocial support and advocacy; and (h) Providing written documentation of medical, genetic, and counseling information for families and health care professionals. “Genetic counseling” excludes the communication specified in Section 124980(m) of the Health and Safety Code. Any person who does not have a valid genetic counselor license or valid temporary genetic counselor license may not use the title “genetic counselor,” “licensed genetic counselor,” “licensed certified genetic counselor,” “certified genetic counselor,” “gene counselor,” “genetic associate,” or “genetic consultant,” or in any other way hold himself or herself out to be a licensed genetic counselor, by indicating or implying that he or she has either met the qualifications for, or has been issued, a license or temporary license pursuant to this Subchapter. Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the service or activities of a student or intern enrolled in a genetic counselor training program accredited by the ABGC or an ABGC-approved/equivalent organization, if practice constitutes a part of a supervised course of study and such student is designated by a title clearly indicating such student's status as a student or intern. |
Colorado | No licensure law |
Connecticut | (1) “Genetic counselor” means a person who has been licensed as a genetic counselor under the provisions of sections 20-195rr and 20-195ss; and (2) “genetic counseling” means the provision of services to individuals, couples, families and organizations by an appropriately trained individual to address the physical and psychological issues associated with the occurrence or risk of occurrence of a genetic disorder, birth defect or genetically influenced condition or disease in an individual or a family. Sec. 20-195qq. License required. Title protection. Exceptions. (a) No person may practice genetic counseling unless licensed or permitted pursuant to section 20-195rr or 20-195ss. (b) No person may use the title “genetic counselor”, “licensed genetic counselor”, “gene counselor”, “genetic consultant”, “genetic associate”, or the designation “LGC” or make use of any title, words, letters, abbreviations or insignia that may reasonably be confused with licensure as a genetic counselor unless such person is licensed pursuant to section 20-195rr or has been issued a temporary permit pursuant to section 20-195ss. |
Delaware | The “practice of genetic counseling” shall include any or all of the following activities: a. Obtaining and interpreting individual, family and medical development histories; b. Determining the mode of inheritance and risk of transmission of genetic conditions; c. Discussing the inheritance, features, natural history, means of diagnosis; d. Identifying, coordinating and explaining genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies; provided however, that if in the course of providing a genetic counseling service to any client, a genetic counselor finds any indication of disease or condition that requires medical assessment, the genetic counselor shall refer a client to a physician licensed to practice medicine; e. Assessing psychosocial factors, recognizing social, educational, and cultural issues; f. Evaluating the client’s or family’s responses to the condition or risk of recurrence and provide client-centered counseling and anticipatory guidance; g. Communicating genetic information to clients in an understandable manner; h. Facilitating informed decision making about testing and management alternatives; i. Identifying and effectively utilizing community resources that provide medical, educational, financial, and psychosocial support and advocacy; j. Providing accurate written documentation of medical, genetic, and counseling information for families and health care professionals; and k. The use of telemedicine as defined in this chapter and, as further described in regulation, the use of and participation in telehealth. (a) No person shall represent oneself or engage in the practice of genetic counseling as a licensed genetic counselor in this State or use the title “genetic counselor”, “licensed genetic counselor”, “L.G.C.”, “gene counselor”, “genetic consultant”, “genetic associate” or any combination of above terms and/or abbreviations unless such a person is licensed under this subchapter. |
Florida | "Scope of practice of genetic counseling" means the process of advising an individual or a family affected by or at risk of genetic disorders, including: (a) Obtaining and evaluating individual, family, and medical histories to determine genetic risk for genetic or medical conditions and diseases in a patient, his or her offspring, and other family members; (b) Discussing the features, natural history, means of diagnosis, genetic and environmental factors, and management of risk for genetic or medical conditions and diseases; (c) Identifying, ordering, and coordinating genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies as appropriate for a genetic assessment; (d) Integrating genetic laboratory test results and other diagnostic studies with personal and family medical history to assess and communicate risk factors for genetic or medical conditions and diseases; (e) Explaining the clinical implications of genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies and their results; (f) Evaluating the client's or family's responses to the condition or risk of recurrence and providing client-centered counseling and anticipatory guidance; (g) Identifying and using community resources that provide medical, educational, financial, and psychosocial support and advocacy; (h) Providing written documentation of medical, genetic, and counseling information for families and health care professionals; and (i) Referring patients to a physician for diagnosis and treatment. |
Georgia | (6) 'Genetic counseling' means the provision of services by a genetic counselor to (a) Obtain and evaluate individual, family, and medical histories to determine genetic risk for genetic or medical conditions and diseases in a patient, his or her offspring, and other family members; (b) Discuss the features, natural history, means of diagnosis, genetic and environmental factors, and management of risk for genetic or medical conditions and diseases; (c) Identify, order, and coordinate genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies as appropriate for the genetic assessment consistent with practice based competencies provided by the ACGC; (d) Integrate genetic laboratory test results and other diagnostic studies with personal and family medical history to assess and communicate risk factors for genetic or medical conditions and diseases; (e) Explain the clinical implications of genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies and their results; (f) Evaluate the client's or family's responses to the condition or risk of recurrence and provide client centered counseling and anticipatory guidance; (g) Identify and utilize community resources that provide medical, educational, financial, and psychosocial support and advocacy; or (h) Provide written documentation of medical, genetic, and counseling information for families and health care professionals. (9) 'Genetic testing' and 'genetic test' mean a test or analysis of human genes, gene products, DNA, RNA, chromosomes, proteins, or metabolites that detects genotypes, mutations, chromosomal changes, abnormalities, or deficiencies, including carrier status, that (A) are linked to physical or mental disorders or impairments, (B) indicate a susceptibility to illness, disease, impairment, or other disorders, whether physical or mental, or (C) demonstrate genetic or chromosomal damage due to environmental factors. The terms do not include routine physical measurements; chemical, blood, and urine analyses that are widely accepted and in use in clinical practice; tests for use of drugs; tests for the presence of the human immunodeficiency virus; analyses of proteins or metabolites that do not detect genotypes, mutations, chromosomal changes, abnormalities, or deficiencies; or analyses of proteins or metabolites that are directly related to a manifested disease, disorder, or pathological condition that could reasonably be detected by a health care professional with appropriate training and expertise in the field of medicine involved. (a) On and after January 1, 2020, a person shall not engage in the practice of genetic counseling in this state without a valid license issued by the board pursuant to this article. (b) A person shall not hold himself or herself out as a genetic counselor unless he or she holds a license issued by the board in accordance with this article. A person not licensed by the board pursuant to this article shall not use in connection with his or her name or place of business the terms 'genetic counselor,' 'licensed genetic counselor,' 'gene counselor,' 'genetic consultant,' 'genetic associate,' or any words, letters, abbreviations, or insignia indicating or implying the person holds a genetic counseling license. |
Hawaii | No licensure law (A licensure law passed, but was never implemented) |
Idaho | SCOPE OF PRACTICE. A licensed genetic counselor may perform the following acts as a genetic counselor: (1) Obtain and evaluate individual, family and medical histories to determine genetic risk for genetic or medical conditions and diseases in a patient, his offspring and other family members; (2) Discuss the features, natural history, means of diagnosis, genetic and environmental factors and management of risk for genetic medical conditions and diseases; (3) Identify and coordinate genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies as appropriate for the genetic assessment; (4) Integrate genetic laboratory test results and other diagnostic studies with personal and family medical history to assess and communicate risk factors for genetic medical conditions and diseases; (5) Explain the clinical implications of genetic laboratory tests, other diagnostic studies and results; (6) Evaluate the client’s or family’s responses to the condition or risk of recurrence and provide client-centered counseling and anticipatory guidance; (7) Identify and utilize community resources that provide medical, educational, financial and psychosocial support and advocacy; and (8) Provide written documentation of medical, genetic and counseling information for families and health care professionals. GENETIC COUNSELOR LICENSE REQUIRED. Effective July 1, 2016, a license shall be required to engage in the practice of genetic counseling. No person shall hold himself out as a genetic counselor unless he is licensed in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. No person who is not so licensed may use in connection with his name or place of business the title genetic counselor, licensed genetic counselor, gene counselor, genetic consultant, genetic associate or any words, letters, abbreviations or insignia indicating or implying that a person holds a genetic counselor license unless such person holds a genetic counselor license. CERTAIN ACTS PROHIBITED. It shall be unlawful and a misdemeanor for any person to engage in any of the following acts: (1) To practice genetic counseling or to represent himself to be a licensed genetic counselor as defined in this chapter without having at the time of so doing, a valid license issued under this chapter; or (2) To use in connection with his name or place of business, the title genetic counselor or any words indicating or implying that the person holds a genetic counselor license unless he is licensed in accordance with this chapter. |
Illinois | "Genetic counseling" means the provision of services, which may include the ordering of genetic tests, to individuals, couples, groups, families, and organizations by one or more appropriately trained individuals to address the physical and psychological issues associated with the occurrence or risk of occurrence or recurrence of a genetic disorder, birth defect, disease, or potentially inherited or genetically influenced condition in an individual or a family. "Genetic counseling" consists of the following: (A) Estimating the likelihood of occurrence or recurrence of a birth defect or of any potentially inherited or genetically influenced condition. This assessment may involve: (i) obtaining and analyzing a complete health history of the person and his or her family; (ii) reviewing pertinent medical records; (iii) evaluating the risks from exposure to possible mutagens or teratogens; (iv) recommending genetic testing or other evaluations to diagnose a condition or determine the carrier status of one or more family members; (B) Helping the individual, family, health care provider, or health care professional (i) appreciate the medical, psychological and social implications of a disorder, including its features, variability, usual course and management options, (ii) learn how genetic factors contribute to the disorder and affect the chance for recurrence of the condition in other family members, and (iii) understand available options for coping with, preventing, or reducing the chance of occurrence or recurrence of a condition. (C) Facilitating an individual's or family's (i) exploration of the perception of risk and burden associated with the disorder and (ii) adjustment and adaptation to the condition or their genetic risk by addressing needs for psychological, social, and medical support. "Genetic counselor" means a person licensed under this Act to engage in the practice of genetic counseling. "Genetic testing" and "genetic test" mean a test or analysis of human genes, gene products, DNA, RNA, chromosomes, proteins, or metabolites that detects genotypes, mutations, chromosomal changes, abnormalities, or deficiencies, including carrier status, that (i) are linked to physical or mental disorders or impairments, (ii) indicate a susceptibility to illness, disease, impairment, or other disorders, whether physical or mental, or (iii) demonstrate genetic or chromosomal damage due to environmental factors. "Genetic testing" and "genetic tests" do not include routine physical measurements; chemical, blood and urine analyses that are widely accepted and in use in clinical practice; tests for use of drugs; tests for the presence of the human immunodeficiency virus; analyses of proteins or metabolites that do not detect genotypes, mutations, chromosomal changes, abnormalities, or deficiencies; or analyses of proteins or metabolites that are directly related to a manifested disease, disorder, or pathological condition that could reasonably be detected by a health care professional with appropriate training and expertise in the field of medicine involved. (a) Except as provided in Section 15, no person shall, without a valid license as a genetic counselor issued by the Department (i) in any manner hold himself or herself out to the public as a genetic counselor under this Act; (ii) use in connection with his or her name or place of business the title "genetic counselor", "licensed genetic counselor", "gene counselor", "genetic consultant", or "genetic associate" or any words, letters, abbreviations, or insignia indicating or implying a person has met the qualifications for or has the license issued under this Act; or (iii) offer to render or render to individuals, corporations, or the public genetic counseling services if the words "genetic counselor" or "licensed genetic counselor" are used to describe the person offering to render or rendering them, or "genetic counseling" is used to describe the services rendered or offered to be rendered. (b) (Blank). (c) No association or partnership shall practice genetic counseling unless every member, partner, and employee of the association or partnership who practices genetic counseling or who renders genetic counseling services holds a valid license issued under this Act. No license shall be issued to a corporation, the stated purpose of which includes or which practices or which holds itself out as available to practice genetic counseling, unless it is organized under the Professional Service Corporation Act. (d) Nothing in this Act shall be construed as permitting persons licensed as genetic counselors to engage in any manner in the practice of medicine in all its branches as defined by law in this State. (e) Nothing in this Act shall be construed to authorize a licensed genetic counselor to diagnose or treat any genetic or other disease or condition. (f) When, in the course of providing genetic counseling services to any person, a genetic counselor licensed under this Act finds any indication of a disease or condition that in his or her professional judgment requires professional service outside the scope of practice as defined in this Act, he or she shall refer that person to a physician licensed to practice medicine in all of its branches. |
Indiana | Sec. 4. "Genetic counseling" means the communication by an individual of any of the following: (1) Estimating, through the following methods, the likelihood of the occurrence or recurrence of a birth defect or a potentially inherited or genetically influenced condition: (A) Obtaining and analyzing the health history of an individual and the individual's family. (B) Reviewing medical records. (C) Evaluating the risks of exposure to possible mutagens or teratogens. (D) Recommending genetic testing or other evaluation to detect fetal abnormalities or determine the carrier status of a family member. (2) Explaining to an individual or a family the following: (A) The medical, psychological, and social implications of a disorder and the usual course of evaluation, treatment, or management. (B) The genetic factors that contribute to the disorder and how the genetic factors affect the chance for recurrence of the condition in other family members. (C) The available options for coping with, preventing, or reducing the chance of occurrence or recurrence of the disorder. (D) The genetic or other tests available for inherited disorders. (E) How to interpret complex genetic test results. An individual who does not have a valid license or temporary license as a genetic counselor under this article may not use the title "genetic counselor", "licensed genetic counselor", or any word, letter, abbreviation, or insignia that indicates or implies that the individual has been issued a license or has met the qualifications for licensure under this article. |
Iowa | Scope of practice. A person licensed pursuant to Iowa Code chapter 148H may do any of the following: 1. Obtain and evaluate individual, family, and medical histories to determine genetic risk for genetic and medical conditions and diseases in a patient, the patient’s offspring, and other family members. 2. Discuss the features, history, means of diagnosis, genetic and environmental factors, and management of risk for genetic and medical conditions and diseases. 3. Identify, order, and coordinate genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies as appropriate for the genetic assessment of a patient. 4. Refer a patient to a specialty or subspecialty department as necessary for the purpose of collaborating on diagnosis and treatment involving multiple body systems and general medical management. 5. Integrate genetic laboratory test results and other diagnostic studies with personal and family medical history to assess and communicate risk factors for genetic and medical conditions and diseases. 6. Explain the clinical implications of genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies and their results. 7. Evaluate the responses of a patient or patient’s family to the condition or risk of recurrence and provide patient-centered genetic counseling and anticipatory guidance. 8. Identify and utilize community resources that provide medical, educational, financial, and psychosocial support and advocacy. 9. Provide written documentation of medical, genetic, and counseling information for families and health care professionals. Code of ethics. The NSGC Code of Ethics prepared and approved by the National Society of Genetic Counselors shall be utilized by the board as guiding principles in the practice of genetic counseling in this state. |
Kansas | No licensure law |
Kentucky | "Genetic counseling" means the provision of services by a genetic counselor to: (a) Obtain and evaluate individual, family, and medical histories to determine genetic risk for genetic or medical conditions and diseases in a patient, his or her offspring, and other family members; (b) Discuss the features, natural history, means of diagnosis, genetic and environmental factors, and management of risk for genetic or medical conditions and diseases; (c) Identify, order, and coordinate genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies as appropriate for the genetic assessment consistent with practice-based competencies provided by ACGC; (d) Integrate genetic laboratory test results and other diagnostic studies with personal and family medical history to assess and communicate risk factors for genetic or medical conditions and diseases; (e) Explain the clinical implications of genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies and their results; (f) Evaluate the client's or family's responses to the condition or risk of recurrence and provide client-centered counseling and anticipatory guidance; (g) Identify and utilize community resources that provide medical, educational, financial, and psychosocial support and advocacy; or (h) Provide written documentation of medical, genetic, and counseling information for families and health care professionals; On and after January 1, 2018, a person shall not engage in the practice of genetic counseling in this state without a valid license issued by the board. (2) A person shall not hold himself or herself out as a genetic counselor unless he or she holds a license issued by the board in accordance with KRS 311.695. A person not licensed by the board shall not use in connection with his or her name or place of business the terms "genetic counselor," "licensed genetic counselor," "gene counselor," "genetic consultant," "genetic associate," or any words, letters, abbreviations, or insignia indicating or implying the person holds a genetic counseling license. |
Louisiana | (5) "Genetic counseling" means any of the following actions by a genetic counselor that occur through and as a result of communication between the genetic counselor and a patient: (a) Obtaining and evaluating individual, family, and medical histories to determine genetic risk for genetic or medical conditions and diseases in a patient, his offspring, and other family members. (b) Discussing the features, natural history, means of diagnosis, genetic and environmental factors, and management of risk for genetic and medical conditions and diseases. (c) Identifying and coordinating genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies as appropriate for the genetic assessment. (d) Integrating genetic laboratory test results and other diagnostic studies with personal and family medical history to assess and communicate risk factors for genetic and medical conditions and diseases. (e) Explaining the clinical implications of genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies and their results. (f) Evaluating the client's or family's responses to the condition or risk of recurrence and providing client-centered counseling and anticipatory guidance. (g) Identifying and utilizing community resources that provide medical, educational, financial, and psychosocial support and advocacy. (h) Providing written documentation of medical, genetic, and counseling information for families and healthcare professionals. A. No individual shall engage in the practice of genetic counseling in this state unless he or she possesses a current license or a temporary license (examination permit), duly issued by the board under Subpart 2 of this Part. B. An individual who does not possess a current license or a temporary license (examination permit), duly issued by the board shall not, directly or indirectly, identify or designate himself or herself as a genetic counselor, licensed genetic counselor, nor use in connection with his or her name the letters "GC," “LGC,” or any other words, letters, abbreviations, insignia, or signs tending to indicate or imply that the person is licensed to practice genetic counseling in this state, or that the services provided by such person constitute genetic counseling |
Maine | No licensure law |
Maryland | (K) (1) “PRACTICE GENETIC COUNSELING” MEANS: (I) OBTAINING AND EVALUATING THE MEDICAL HISTORIES OF A PATIENT AND THE PATIENT’S FAMILY MEMBERS FOR PURPOSES OF A GENETIC ASSESSMENT; (II) DISCUSSING THE FEATURES, NATURAL HISTORY, MEANS OF DIAGNOSIS, GENETIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS, AND MANAGEMENT OF RISK FOR GENETIC OR MEDICAL CONDITIONS OR DISEASES; (III) IDENTIFYING, ORDERING, AND COORDINATING GENETIC LABORATORY TESTS AND OTHER DIAGNOSTIC STUDIES, AS APPROPRIATE, FOR PURPOSES OF A GENETIC ASSESSMENT; (IV) USING THE MEDICAL HISTORIES OBTAINED UNDER ITEM (I) OF THIS PARAGRAPH AND THE RESULTS OF GENETIC LABORATORY TESTS AND OTHER DIAGNOSTIC STUDIES ORDERED UNDER ITEM (III) OF THIS PARAGRAPH FOR PURPOSES OF A GENETIC ASSESSMENT; (V) EXPLAINING THE CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS OF GENETIC LABORATORY TESTS AND OTHER DIAGNOSTIC STUDIES AND THE RESULTS OF THE TESTS AND STUDIES AND COMMUNICATING THE RISK FACTORS FOR GENETIC OR MEDICAL CONDITIONS OR DISEASES IDENTIFIED BY A GENETIC ASSESSMENT; (VI) EVALUATING THE RESPONSES OF A PATIENT AND THE PATIENT’S FAMILY MEMBERS TO THE RESULTS OF A GENETIC ASSESSMENT AND PROVIDING COUNSELING AND ANTICIPATORY GUIDANCE FOR A GENETIC OR MEDICAL CONDITION OR DISEASE; (VII) IDENTIFYING AND USING COMMUNITY RESOURCES THAT PROVIDE MEDICAL, EDUCATIONAL, FINANCIAL, AND PSYCHOSOCIAL SUPPORT AND ADVOCACY FOR A GENETIC OR MEDICAL CONDITION OR DISEASE; OR (VIII) PROVIDING WRITTEN DOCUMENTATION OF MEDICAL, GENETIC, AND COUNSELING INFORMATION FOR A PATIENT, A PATIENT’S FAMILY MEMBERS, OR APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS. (2) “PRACTICE GENETIC COUNSELING” DOES NOT INCLUDE DIAGNOSING OR TREATING AN ILLNESS, A DISEASE, OR A CONDITION. Section 232. No person shall hold himself out as a genetic counselor unless he is licensed in accordance with section 230 or section 100 of chapter 13. No person who is not so licensed may use in connection with his name or place of business, the title “genetic counselor”, “licensed genetic counselor”, “gene counselor”, “genetic consultant”, “genetic associate” or any words, letters, abbreviations or insignia indicating or implying a person holds a genetic counseling license. |
Massachusetts | Practice of Genetic Counseling. A communication process conducted by one or more appropriately trained individuals that may include: (a) estimating the likelihood of occurrence or recurrence of a birth defect or of any potentially inherited or genetically influenced condition. This assessment may involve: 1. obtaining and analyzing a complete health history of the person and family; 2. reviewing pertinent medical records; 3. evaluating the risks from exposure to possible mutagens or teratogens; and 4. recommending genetic testing or other evaluations to diagnose a condition or determine the carrier status of one or more family members; (b) helping the individual, family, health care provider, or public to: 1. appreciate the medical, psychological, and social implications of a disorder, including its features, variability, usual course, and management options; 2. learn how genetic factors contribute to the disorder and affect the chance for recurrence of the condition in other family members; 3. understand available options for coping with, preventing, or reducing the chance of occurrence or recurrence of a condition; 4. select the most appropriate, accurate, and cost-effective methods of diagnosis; and 5. understand genetic or prenatal tests, coordinate testing for inherited disorders, and interpret complex genetic test results; (c) facilitating an individual's or family's: 1. exploration of the perception of risk and burden associated with the disorder; 2. decision-making regarding testing or medical interventions consistent with their beliefs, goals, needs, resources, culture, and ethical or moral views; and 3. adjustment and adaptation to the condition or their genetic risk by addressing needs for psychological, social, and medical support. Provisional License. A license issued by the Board authorizing its holder to engage in supervised practice as a provisional licensee. Provisionally Licensed Genetic Counselor or Provisional Licensee. A person licensed by the Board to engage in supervised practice as a provisionally licensed genetic counselor pursuant to M.G.L. c. 13, § 100, having met and maintained the qualifications for provisional licensure under M.G.L. c. 112, §§ 228, 229, and 230. (1)Use of Title. A genetic counselor shall only identify himself or herself as a genetic counselor while in possession of a current license. Section 232. No person shall hold himself out as a genetic counselor unless he is licensed in accordance with section 230 or section 100 of chapter 13. No person who is not so licensed may use in connection with his name or place of business, the title “genetic counselor”, “licensed genetic counselor”, “gene counselor”, “genetic consultant”, “genetic associate” or any words, letters, abbreviations or insignia indicating or implying a person holds a genetic counseling license. |
Michigan | (i) "Practice of genetic counseling" means provision of any of the following services: (i) Obtaining and evaluating individual, family, and medical histories to determine the genetic risk for genetic or medical conditions or diseases in a client, the client's descendants, or other family members of the client. (ii) Discussing with a client the features, natural history, means of diagnosis, genetic and environmental factors, and management of the genetic risks of genetic or medical conditions or diseases. (iii) Identifying and coordinating appropriate genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies for genetic assessment of a client. (iv) Integrating genetic laboratory test results and other diagnostic studies with personal and family medical history to assess and communicate a client's risk factors for genetic or medical conditions or diseases. (v) Explaining to a client the clinical implications of genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies and their results. (vi) Evaluating the responses of a client and the client's family to a genetic or medical condition or disease or to the risk of recurrence of that condition or disease and providing client-centered counseling and anticipatory guidance. (vii) Identifying and utilizing community resources that provide medical, educational, financial, and psychosocial support and advocacy to a client. (viii) Providing written documentation of medical, genetic, and counseling information for families of and health care professionals of a client. |
Minnesota | Genetic counseling. "Genetic counseling" means the provision of services described in section 147F.03 to help clients and their families understand the medical, psychological, and familial implications of genetic contributions to a disease or medical condition. 147F.03 SCOPE OF PRACTICE. The practice of genetic counseling by a licensed genetic counselor includes the following services: (1) obtaining and interpreting individual and family medical and developmental histories; (2) determining the mode of inheritance and the risk of transmitting genetic conditions and birth defects; (3) discussing the inheritance, features, natural history, means of diagnosis, and management of conditions with clients; (4) identifying, coordinating, ordering, and explaining the clinical implications of genetic laboratory tests and other laboratory studies; (5) assessing psychosocial factors, including social, educational, and cultural issues; (6) providing client-centered counseling and anticipatory guidance to the client or family based on their responses to the condition, risk of occurrence, or risk of recurrence; (7) facilitating informed decision-making about testing and management; (8) identifying and using community resources that provide medical, educational, financial, and psychosocial support and advocacy; and (9) providing accurate written medical, genetic, and counseling information for families and health care professionals. Protected titles. No individual may use the title "genetic counselor," "licensed genetic counselor," "gene counselor," "genetic consultant," "genetic assistant," "genetic associate," or any words, letters, abbreviations, or insignia indicating or implying that the individual is eligible for licensure by the state as a genetic counselor unless the individual has been licensed as a genetic counselor according to this chapter. Subd. 2.Unlicensed practice prohibited. Effective January 1, 2018, no individual may practice genetic counseling unless the individual is licensed as a genetic counselor under this chapter except as otherwise provided under this chapter. |
Mississippi | Mississippi Law begins enforcement no later than January 1, 2026 SECTION 17. Scope of practice. The practice of "genetic counseling" means the provision of services by an individual who qualifies for a license under this chapter. It includes: (a) Obtaining and interpreting individual, family, medical, and developmental histories; (b) Determining the mode of inheritance and risk of transmission of genetic conditions and birth defects; (c) Discussing the inheritance, features, natural history, means of diagnosis, and management of these conditions; (d) Identifying, ordering, coordinating, and explaining the clinical implications of genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies; (e) Assessing psychosocial factors, and recognizing social, educational and cultural issues; (f) Evaluating the client's or family's responses to the condition or risk of recurrence and provide client-centered counseling and anticipatory guidance; (g) Communicating information to their clients in an understandable manner; (h) Facilitating informed decision-making about testing and management; (i) Identifying and effectively using community resources that provide medical, educational, financial, and psychosocial support and advocacy; and (j) Providing accurate written documentation of medical, genetic, and counseling information for families and health care professionals. (4) No person shall hold himself or herself out as a genetic counselor unless he or she is licensed in accordance with this chapter. No person who is not so licensed may use, in connection with his or her name or place of business, the title "genetic counselor", "licensed genetic counselor", "gene counselor", "genetic consultant", "genetic associate" or any words, letters, abbreviations or insignia indicating or implying that a person holds a genetic counseling license. |
Missouri | No licensure law |
Montana | Scope of practice. (1) The practice of genetic counseling involves: (a) obtaining and evaluating individual, family, and medical histories to determine genetic risk for genetic or medical conditions and diseases in a patient, the patient's offspring, and other family members; (b) discussing the features, natural history, means of diagnosis, genetic and environmental factors, and management of risk for genetic and medical conditions and diseases; (c) identifying, ordering, and coordinating genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies as appropriate for genetic assessment; (d) integrating genetic laboratory test results and other diagnostic studies with personal and family medical history to assess and communicate risk factors for genetic and medical conditions and diseases; (e) explaining the clinical implications of genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies and their results; (f) evaluating the client's or family's responses to the genetic or medical condition or the risk of recurrence of the condition and providing client-centered counseling and anticipatory guidance; (g) identifying and using community resources that provide medical, educational, financial, and psychosocial support and advocacy; and (h) providing written documentation of medical, genetic, and counseling information for families and health care professionals. (2) Nothing in this chapter authorizes a genetic counselor to practice medicine, including treatment or medical management of a patient. If, in the course of providing genetic counseling to a client, a genetic counselor finds any indication of a disease or condition that requires medical assessment or treatment, the genetic counselor shall refer the client to a provider licensed to practice medicine. Representation or practice as genetic counselor -- license required. (1) On issuance of a license under this chapter, a licensee may use the title "licensed genetic counselor". (2) Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, a person may not represent that the person is a licensed genetic counselor by using the title "genetic counselor", "licensed genetic counselor", "gene counselor", "genetic consultant", "genetic associate", or any words, letters, abbreviations, or insignia indicating or implying a person holds a genetic counseling license unless the person is licensed under this chapter. |
Nebraska | The scope of practice of a genetic counselor is: (1) Obtaining and evaluating individual, family, and medical histories to determine genetic risk for genetic or medical conditions and diseases in a patient, his or her offspring, and other family members; (2) Discussing features, natural history, means of diagnosis, genetic and environmental factors, and management of risk for genetic or medical conditions and diseases; (3) Identifying and coordinating of genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies as appropriate for the genetic assessment; (4) Integrating genetic laboratory test results and other diagnostic studies with personal and family medical history to assess and communicate risk factors for genetic or medical conditions and diseases; (5) Explaining the clinical implications of genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies and their results; (6) Evaluating the client’s or family’s responses to genetic or medical conditions identified by the genetic assessment or risk of recurrence and providing client-centered counseling and anticipatory guidance; (7) Identifying and utilizing community resources that provide medical, educational, financial, and psychosocial support and advocacy; and (8) Providing written documentation of medical, genetic, and counseling information for families and health care professionals. |
Nevada | Nevada Law begins enforcement on July 1, 2026 Sec. 4. 1. “Genetic counseling” means: (a) Obtaining and evaluating the medical histories of patients and their families to determine the risk of medical or genetic conditions in the patient, his or her children and other family members; (b) Discussing the features, natural history and means of diagnosing medical or genetic conditions, genetic and environmental factors that affect such conditions and ways to manage the risk related to such conditions; (c) Identifying, ordering and coordinating genetic laboratory tests as appropriate to assess the genetics of a patient; (d) Integrating the results of genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies with the medical histories of patients and their families to assess and communicate the existence and severity of risk factors for medical or genetic conditions; (e) Explaining the clinical implications and results of a genetic laboratory test; (f) Evaluating the responses of a patient or the family of a patient to learning of a genetic or medical condition or the risk of such a condition occurring or recurring and providing patient- centered counseling and anticipatory guidance; (g) Identifying and utilizing resources in the community that provide medical, educational, financial and psychosocial support and advocacy for persons who have or are at risk of having medical or genetic conditions; and (h) Providing written documentation of medical and genetic information, and counseling relating to such information, for patients, families of patients and providers of health care. 2. The term does not include diagnosis or treatment. (f) To enjoin the use of the title “G.A.,” “G.C.,” “L.G.C.,” “R.G.C.,” “genetic associate,” “genetic counselor,” “licensed genetic counselor,” “registered genetic counselor” or any other word, combination of letters or other designation intended to imply or designate a person as a genetic counselor, when not licensed by the Board pursuant to this chapter, unless the use is otherwise authorized by a specific statute. |
New Hampshire | “Practice of genetic counseling” means, for the purposes of advising an individual client, a client’s family, or other licensed health care professional as defined in RSA 326-K:1, VI;
(1) Obtaining and evaluating individual, family, and medical histories to determine genetic risk for genetic or medical conditions and diseases in a patient, his or her offspring, and other family members;
(2) Discussing the features, natural history, means of diagnosis, genetic and environmental factors, and management of risk for genetic or medical conditions and diseases;
(3) Identifying and coordinating genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies as appropriate for the genetic assessment;
(4) Integrating genetic laboratory test results and other diagnostic studies with personal and family medical history to assess and communicate risk factors for genetic or medical conditions and diseases;
(5) Explaining the clinical implications of genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies and their results;
(6) Evaluating the client’s or family’s responses to the condition of risk of recurrence and provide client-centered counseling and anticipatory guidance; and
(7) Providing written documentation of medical, genetic, and counseling information for families and health care professionals. |
New Jersey | "Genetic counseling" means a communication process, conducted by one or more appropriately trained individuals, that may include: obtaining and interpreting individual, family, medical, and developmental histories; determining the mode of inheritance and risk of transmission of genetic conditions and birth defects; discussing the inheritance features, natural history, means of diagnosis, and management of genetic conditions and birth defects; identifying, coordinating, and explaining the clinical implications of genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies and their results; integrating genetic laboratory test results and other diagnostic studies with personal and family medical history to assess and communicate risk factors for genetic or medical conditions and diseases; assessing psychosocial factors; recognizing social, educational, and cultural issues; evaluating the client's or family's responses to the condition or risk of recurrence and providing client-centered counseling and anticipatory guidance; and facilitating informed decision making about testing, management, and alternatives. 13:35-14.8 SCOPE OF PRACTICE a) The following is within the scope of practice of a licensed genetic counselor: 1) Obtaining and interpreting individual, family, medical, and developmental histories; 2) Determining the mode of inheritance and risk of transmission of genetic conditions and of birth defects, including evaluating the risks from exposure to possible mutagens and teratogens; 3) Discussing the inheritance features, natural history, means of diagnosis, and management of genetic conditions and birth defects; 4) Identifying, coordinating, and explaining the clinical implications of genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies and their results; 5) Integrating genetic laboratory test results and other diagnostic studies with personal and family medical history to assess and communicate risk factors for genetic or medical conditions and diseases; 6) Assessing psychosocial factors; 7) Recognizing social, educational, and cultural issues; 8) Evaluating the client's or family's responses to the condition or risk of recurrence and providing client-centered counseling and anticipatory guidance; and 9) Facilitating informed decision making about testing, management, and alternatives. 45:9-37.117 Licensure required for genetic counselors; exceptions. 7. Except as provided in this section, a person shall not engage in the practice of genetic counseling as a genetic counselor, or hold himself out as a genetic counselor unless the person is licensed in accordance with this act. a. (1) Only an individual may be licensed to practice genetic counseling within the State. A firm, partnership, association or corporation shall not advertise or otherwise offer to provide or convey the impression that it is providing genetic counseling services unless an individual holding a current valid license pursuant to the provisions of this act shall be rendering the genetic counseling services. (2) A person who is not licensed as a genetic counselor shall not use the title "genetic counselor," "licensed genetic counselor," "gene counselor," "genetic consultant," "genetic associate" or any words, abbreviations, acronyms, insignia or combination of words, abbreviations, acronyms or insignias of similar import in relation to the person's name, occupation, or place of business. |
New Mexico | D. "genetic counseling" means a communication process that may include: (1) estimating the likelihood of occurrence or recurrence of any potentially inherited or genetically influenced condition or congenital abnormality. "Genetic counseling" may involve: (a) obtaining and analyzing the complete health history of an individual and family members; (b) reviewing pertinent medical records; (c) evaluating the risks from exposure to possible mutagens or teratogens; and (d) determining appropriate genetic testing or other evaluations to diagnose a condition or determine the carrier status of one or more family members; (2) helping an individual, family or health care provider to: (a) appreciate the medical, psychological and social implications of a disorder, including its features, variability, usual course and management options; (b) learn how genetic factors contribute to a disorder and affect the chance for occurrence of the disorder in other family members; (c) understand available options for coping with, preventing or reducing the chance of occurrence or recurrence of a disorder; (d) select the most appropriate, accurate and cost-effective methods of diagnosis; and (e) understand genetic or prenatal tests, coordinate testing for inherited disorders and interpret complex genetic test results; and (3) facilitating an individual's or family's: (a) exploration of the perception of risk and burden associated with a genetic disorder; and (b) adjustment and adaptation to a disorder or the individual's or family's genetic risk by addressing needs for psychological, social and medical support; and E. "genetic counselor" means a person licensed pursuant to the Genetic Counseling Act to engage in the practice of genetic counseling. Unless licensed as a genetic counselor pursuant to the Genetic Counseling Act, a person shall not: A. engage in the practice of genetic counseling; B. use the title or make any representation as being a licensed genetic counselor or use any other title, abbreviation, letters, figures, signs or devices that indicate or imply that the person is licensed to practice as a genetic counselor, including a genetic associate, gene counselor or genetic consultant; or C. advertise, hold out to the public or represent in any manner that the person is authorized to practice genetic counseling. |
New York | No licensure law |
North Carolina | No licensure law |
North Dakota | North Dakota Law, North Dakota Amendment 4. "Genetic counseling" means a communication process, conducted by appropriately trained individuals which includes: a. Assisting an individual, the individual's family, a health care provider, or the public with comprehending the issues inherent to genetic counseling. Such assistance may include: (1) Appreciating the medical, psychological, and social implications of a disorder, including features, variability, usual course, and management options; (2) Learning how genetic factors contribute to the disorder and affect the chance for recurrence of the condition in other family members; (3) Understanding available options for coping with, preventing, or reducing the chance of occurrence or recurrence of a condition; (4) Selecting the most appropriate, accurate, and cost - effective methods to determine risk for genetic conditions and diseases; and (5) Understanding genetic tests, including diagnostic genetic tests, screening tests, or predispositional genetic tests; coordinating testing for inherited disorders; and explaining complex genetic test results; b. Assessing the likelihood of the occurrence or recurrence of an abnormality in the pregnancy in structure, function, or metabolism or of any potentially inherited or genetically influenced condition. Such assessment may include the following: (1) Obtaining and analyzing a complete health history of an individual and the individual's family; (2) Reviewing pertinent medical records; (3) Evaluating the risks from exposure to possible mutagens or teratogens; and (4) Discussing genetic testing or other evaluations to identify a condition or determine the carrier status of one or more family members; and c. Facilitating an individual's or family's: (1) Exploration of the perception of risk and burden associated with a genetic disorder; (2) Decision making regarding testing or medical interventions consistent with the individual's or family's beliefs, goals, needs, or resources or with the individual's or family's cultural, ethical, or moral views; and (3) Adjustment and adaptation to the condition or the genetic risk by addressing needs for psychological, social, and medical support. SECTION 1. AMENDMENT. Subsection 2 of section 43-60-02 of the North Dakota Century Code is amended and reenacted as follows: 2. Genetic testing may be ordered by a licensed genetic counselor or in coordination with a North Dakota licensed health care provider acting within the provider's scope of practice and privileged to do so. ... Nothing in this chapter authorizes a genetic counselor to practice medicine, including treatment or medical management of a patient. If, in the course of providing genetic counseling to a client, a genetic counselor finds any indication of a disease or condition that requires medical assessment or treatment, the genetic counselor shall refer the client to a provider licensed to practice medicine. |
Ohio | (A) An individual who holds a valid license to practice as a genetic counselor may engage in all of the following activities: (1) Obtain and evaluate the medical histories of a patient and the patient's family members to determine the risk for genetic or medical conditions and diseases in the patient, the patient's offspring, or the patient's family members; (2) Discuss with a patient and the patient's family the features, natural history, means of diagnosis, genetic and environmental factors, and management of risk for genetic or medical conditions and diseases; (3) Identify and coordinate genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies as appropriate for genetic assessment; (4) Integrate the results of genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic tests with individual and family medical histories; (5) Explain to a patient and the patient's family the clinical implications of the results of genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic tests; (6) Evaluate the response of a patient or the patient's family members to one or more genetic conditions or the risk of reoccurrence and provide patient-centered counseling and guidance; (7) Identify and use community resources that provide medical, educational, financial, and psychosocial support and advocacy; (8) Provide medical, genetic, and counseling information to patients, their families, and other health care professionals; (9) Pursuant to a collaborative agreement, perform the activities specified in division (B) of this section. (B) A genetic counselor may enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician who agrees to work with and provide medical support to the genetic counselor. The agreement shall be established as a written, formal document that memorializes the relationship between the genetic counselor and the physician and establishes the criteria governing the genetic counselor's performance of both of the following: (1) Order genetic or other tests for the purpose of diagnosing a medical condition or inherited disorder or determining the carrier status of one or more of the patient's family members; (2) Select the most appropriate, accurate, and cost-effective methods of diagnosis. (2) No person shall use the title "genetic counselor," or otherwise hold the person out as a genetic counselor, unless the person holds a current, valid license to practice as a genetic counselor issued under this chapter. |
Oklahoma | 4. “Genetic counseling” means a communication process, conducted by one or more appropriately trained individuals, that includes: a. estimating the likelihood of occurrence or recurrence of a birth defect or of any potentially inherited or genetically influenced condition. Such assessment may involve: (1) obtaining and analyzing a complete health history of an individual and the individual’s family, (2) review of pertinent medical records, (3) evaluation of the risks from exposure to possible mutagens or teratogens, or (4) discussion of genetic testing or other valuations to diagnose a condition or determine the carrier status of one or more family members, b. helping an individual, the individual’s family, a health care provider, or the public to: (1) appreciate the medical, psychological and social implications of a disorder including its features, variability, usual course, and management options, (2) learn how genetic factors contribute to the disorder and affect the chance for recurrence of the condition in other family members, (3) understand available options for coping with, preventing or reducing the chance of occurrence or recurrence of a condition, (4) select the most appropriate, accurate and cost effective methods of diagnosis, or (5) understand genetic or prenatal tests, coordinate testing for inherited disorders, and interpret genetic test results, and c. facilitating an individual’s or family’s: (1) exploration of the perception of risk and burden associated with a disorder, (2) decision-making regarding testing or medical interventions consistent with the individual’s or family’s beliefs, goals, needs, resources, culture and ethical or moral views, or (3) adjustment and adaptation to the condition or the individual’s or family’s genetic risk by addressing needs for psychological, social and medical support. B. Any person who does not have a valid license or temporary license as a genetic counselor shall not use in connection with his or her name or place of business the title “genetic counselor”, “licensed genetic counselor”, “gene counselor”, “genetic consultant”, “genetic associate”, or any words, letters, abbreviations or insignia indicating or implying that a person has met the qualifications for or has the license issued pursuant to the provisions of this act. |
Oregon | 676.730 Definitions for ORS 676.730 to 676.748. As used in ORS 676.730 to 676.748: (1) “Genetic counseling” means the practice of assisting patients in understanding and adapting to the medical, psychological and familial implications of genetic conditions, including: (a) Obtaining and evaluating individual and family medical histories to determine risk for genetic and medical conditions and diseases of a patient and the patient’s family members; (b) Discussing the features, natural history, means of diagnosis, genetic and environmental factors and risk management for genetic and medical conditions and diseases; (c) Identifying and coordinating genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies appropriate for genetic assessment; (d) Integrating test and study results with the patient’s personal and family history to assess and communicate risk factors for genetic and medical conditions and diseases; (e) Explaining the clinical implications of tests and studies and their results and evaluating the patient’s, and patient’s family’s responses, to the results and the risk of any recurrence of conditions and diseases, and providing patient-centered counseling and anticipatory guidance; (f) Identifying and using any community resources to provide educational, financial, medical and psychosocial support and advocacy; and (g) Providing written documentation of medical, genetic and counseling information for families and health care providers. (1) A person may not practice genetic counseling or assume any title, words or abbreviations, including but not limited to the title or designation “licensed genetic counselor,” that indicate that the person is authorized to practice genetic counseling, unless the person is licensed under ORS 676.733. |
Pennsylvania | (b) Use of title.--An individual who holds an active license as provided by this act may hold himself out to the public by any title or description of services incorporating the term "genetic counselor" or use any words or symbols indicating that the individual is a genetic counselor, except as otherwise provided by this act. (c) Scope of practice.-- (1) A genetic counselor may provide genetic counseling to clients, which includes: (i) Obtain and evaluate individual and family medical histories to determine genetic risk for genetic or medical conditions and diseases in a patient and other family members. (ii) Discuss the features, natural history, means of diagnosis, genetic and environmental factors and management of risk for the genetic or medical conditions and diseases. (iii) Identify and coordinate genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies as appropriate for the genetic assessment. (iv) Integrate the genetic laboratory test results and other diagnostic studies with personal and family medical history to assess and communicate risk factors for genetic or medical conditions and diseases. (v) Explain the clinical implications of genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies and their results. (vi) Evaluate the client's or family's responses to the condition or risk of the recurrence and provide client-centered counseling. (vii) Identify and utilize community resources that provide medical, educational, financial and psychosocial support and advocacy. (viii) Provide written documentation of medical, genetic and counseling information for families and health care professionals. (2) When in the course of providing genetic counseling services to a client, if a genetic counselor finds any indication of a disease or condition that requires diagnosis and treatment outside the scope of practice defined in this section, the genetic counselor shall refer the client to a licensed physician or appropriate health care practitioner. (3) Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to authorize a genetic counselor to diagnose, test or treat any genetic disease or condition or other disease or condition. |
Rhode Island | (7) “Practice of genetic counseling” means a communication process, conducted by one or more appropriately trained individuals that may include: (i) Obtaining and evaluating individual, family, and medical histories to determine genetic risk for genetic/medical conditions and diseases in a patient, the patient’s offspring, and other family members; (ii) Discussing the features, natural history, means of diagnosis, genetic and environmental factors, and management of risk for genetic/medical conditions and diseases; (iii) Identifying, ordering, and coordinating genetic laboratory tests as appropriate for the genetic assessment; (iv) Integrating genetic laboratory test results and other diagnostic studies with personal and family medical history to assess and communicate risk factors for genetic/medical conditions and diseases; (v) Explaining the clinical implications of genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies and their results; (vi) Evaluating the client’s or family’s responses to the condition or risk of recurrence and providing client-centered counseling and anticipatory guidance; (vii) Identifying and utilizing community resources that provide medical, educational, financial, and psychosocial support and advocacy; (viii) Providing written documentation of medical, genetic, and counseling information for families and healthcare professionals; and (ix) When necessary, referring patients to a physician for diagnosis and treatment. Effective July 1, 2023, a license shall be required to engage in the practice of genetic counseling. No person shall hold themselves out as a genetic counselor unless they are licensed in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. No person who is not so licensed may use in connection with their name or place of business the title genetic counselor, licensed genetic counselor, gene counselor, genetic consultant, genetic associate, or any words, letters, abbreviations, or insignia indicating or implying that a person holds a genetic counselor license unless the person holds a genetic counselor license. |
South Carolina | (8) "Practice of genetic counseling" means: (a) obtain and evaluate individual, family, and medical histories to determine genetic risk for genetic/medical conditions and diseases in a patient, his offspring, and other family members; (b) discuss the features, natural history, means of diagnosis, genetic and environmental factors, and management of risk for genetic/medical conditions and diseases; (c) identify and order genetic laboratory tests as appropriate for the genetic assessment; (d) integrate genetic laboratory test results and other diagnostic studies with personal and family medical histories to assess and communicate risk factors for genetic/medical conditions and diseases; (e) explain the clinical implications of genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies and their results; (f) evaluate responses of the client and his family to the condition or risk of recurrence and provide client-centered counseling and anticipatory guidance; (g) identify and use community resources that provide medical, educational, financial, and psychosocial support and advocacy; and (h) provide written documentation of medical, genetic, and counseling information for families and health care professionals.
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South Dakota | 36-36-2. Genetic counseling defined. For the purposes of this chapter, genetic counseling is a communication process, conducted by appropriately trained persons that includes: (1) Assisting a person, the person's family, a health care provider, or the public with comprehending the issues inherent to genetic counseling. The assistance may include the following: (a) Appreciating the medical, psychological, and social implications of a disorder including features, variability, usual course, and management options; (b) Learning how genetic factors contribute to the disorder and affect the chance for recurrence of the condition in other family members; (c) Understanding available options for coping with, preventing, or reducing the chance of occurrence or recurrence of a condition; (d) Selecting the most appropriate, accurate, and cost-effective methods of diagnosis, including the ordering of genetic tests consistent with the referral and reporting requirements of this chapter; or (e) Understanding genetic tests, including diagnostic genetic tests, screening tests, or predispositional genetic tests, coordinating testing for inherited disorders, and interpreting complex genetic test results; (2) Assessing the likelihood of the occurrence or recurrence of an abnormality in the fetus in structure, function, or metabolism or of any potentially inherited or genetically influenced condition. The assessment may include the following: (a) Obtaining and analyzing a complete health history of a person and the person's family; (b) Reviewing pertinent medical records; (c) Evaluating the risks from exposure to possible mutagens or teratogens; or (d) Ordering genetic testing or other evaluations, consistent with the referral and reporting requirements of this chapter, to diagnose a condition or determine the carrier status of one or more family members; and (3) Facilitating an individual's or family's: (a) Exploration of the perception of risk and burden associated with a genetic disorder; (b) Decision-making regarding testing or medical interventions consistent with the individual's or family's beliefs, goals, needs, resources, or cultural, ethical, or moral views; and (c) Adjustment and adaptation to the condition or the genetic risk by addressing needs for psychological, social, and medical support. Source: SL 2009, ch 194, § 2; SL 2016, ch 198, § 2. 36-36-3. Practice of genetic counseling defined. For the purposes of this chapter, the practice of genetic counseling is the process of helping people understand and adapt to the medical, psychological, and familial implications of genetic contributions to disease performed pursuant to a referral. This process integrates the following: (1) Interpretation of family and medical histories to assess the chance of disease occurrence or recurrence; (2) Education about inheritance, testing, management, prevention, resources, and research; (3) Ordering genetic testing consistent with the referral and reporting requirements of this chapter; and (4) Counseling to promote informed decisions and adaptation to the risk or condition. No person may engage in the practice of genetic counseling, act or represent himself or herself to be a genetic counselor, or use such titles as genetic counselor, licensed genetic counselor, gene counselor, genetic associate, or any words, letters, abbreviations, or insignia, such as certified genetic counselor (CGC), indicating or implying that such person is a genetic counselor, unless such person holds a license or temporary license and otherwise complies with the provisions of this chapter and the rules adopted pursuant to this chapter. However, any qualified and licensed health care professional who is practicing within the professional's scope of practice may engage in the practice of genetic counseling, without being licensed pursuant to this chapter, but may not use the title, genetic counselor, or any other title indicating or implying that the person is a genetic counselor unless licensed as such in this state. A violation of this section is a Class 1 misdemeanor. |
Tennessee | Genetic counseling is a communication process, conducted by one (1) or more appropriately trained individuals, that includes: (1) Estimating the likelihood of occurrence or recurrence of any potentially inherited or genetically influenced condition. This assessment may involve: (A) Obtaining and analyzing a complete health history of the person and family; (B) Reviewing pertinent medical records; (C) Evaluating the risks from exposure to possible mutagens or teratogens; and (D) Recommending genetic testing or other evaluations to assist in the diagnosis of a condition or determine the carrier status of one (1) or more family members; (2) Helping the individual, family, health care provider or public to: (A) Appreciate the medical, psychological and social implications of a disorder, including its features, variability, usual course and management options; (B) Learn how genetic factors contribute to the disorder and affect the chance for recurrence of the condition in other family members; (C) Understand available options for coping with, preventing, or reducing the chance of occurrence or recurrence of a condition; (D) Select the most appropriate, accurate and cost-effective methods of diagnosis; and (E) Understand genetic tests, including, but not limited to, diagnostic genetic tests, screening tests or predispositional genetic tests, coordinate testing for inherited disorders and interpret complex genetic test results; (3) Facilitating an individual's or family's: (A) Exploration of the perception of risk and burden associated with a genetic disorder; (B) Decision making regarding testing or medical interventions consistent with their beliefs, goals, needs, resources, culture and ethical/moral views; and (C) Adjustment and adaptation to the condition or their genetic risk by addressing needs for psychological, social and medical support. |
Texas | No licensure law |
Utah | (2) "Practice of genetic counseling" means the communication process which deals with the human problems associated with the occurrence, or the risk of occurrence, of a genetic disorder in a family, including the provision of services to help an individual or family: (a) comprehend the medical facts, including the diagnosis, probable cause of the disorder, and the available management; (b) appreciate the way heredity contributes to the disorder and the risk of occurrence in specified relatives; (c) understand the alternatives for dealing with the risk of occurrence; (d) choose the course of action which seems appropriate to them in view of their risk, their family goals, and their ethical and religious standards, and to act in accordance with that decision; and (e) make the best possible psychosocial adjustment to the disorder in an affected family member or to the risk of occurrence of that disorder. |
Vermont | No licensure law |
Virginia | "Practice of genetic counseling" means (i) obtaining and evaluating individual and family medical histories to assess the risk of genetic medical conditions and diseases in a patient, his offspring, and other family members; (ii) discussing the features, history, diagnosis, environmental factors, and risk management of genetic medical conditions and diseases; (iii) ordering genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies necessary for genetic assessment; (iv) integrating the results with personal and family medical history to assess and communicate risk factors for genetic medical conditions and diseases; (v) evaluating the patient's and family's responses to the medical condition or risk of recurrence and providing client-centered counseling and anticipatory guidance; (vi) identifying and utilizing community resources that provide medical, educational, financial, and psychosocial support and advocacy; and (vii) providing written documentation of medical, genetic, and counseling information for families and health care professionals. |
Washington | Washington Law- Scope of Practice, Washington Law-Colab Practice 5) "Practice of genetic counseling" means a communication process, conducted by one or more appropriately trained individuals that includes: (a) Estimating the likelihood of occurrence or recurrence of a birth defect or of any potentially inherited or genetically influenced condition. This assessment may involve: (i) Obtaining and analyzing a complete health history of the person and family; (ii) Reviewing pertinent medical records; (iii) Evaluating the risks from exposure to possible mutagens or teratogens; and (iv) Providing recommendations for genetic testing or other evaluations to diagnose a condition or determine the carrier status of one or more family members; (b) Helping the individual, family, or health care provider: (i) Appreciate the medical and psychosocial implications of a disorder, including its features, variability, usual course, and management options; (ii) Learn how genetic factors contribute to the disorder and affect the chance for recurrence of the condition in other family members; (iii) Understand available options for coping with, preventing, or reducing the chance of occurrence or recurrence of a condition; (iv) Understand genetic or prenatal tests, coordinate testing for inherited disorders, and interpret complex genetic test results; (c) Facilitating an individual's or family's: (i) Exploration of the perception of risk and burden associated with the disorder; (ii) Decision making regarding testing or medical interventions consistent with their beliefs, goals, needs, resources, and cultural, ethical, and moral views; and (iii) Adjustment and adaptation to the condition or their genetic risk by addressing needs for psychosocial and medical support; and (d) Pursuant to a collaborative agreement: (i) Ordering genetic tests or other evaluations to diagnose a condition or determine the carrier status of one or more family members, including testing for inherited disorders; and (ii) Selecting the most appropriate, accurate, and cost-effective methods of diagnosis.Collaborative agreement. (1) Under a collaborative agreement, a licensed genetic counselor may order laboratory tests or recommend other evaluations to diagnose a hereditary condition or determine the carrier status of one or more family members, including testing for inherited disorders. The collaborative agreement shall include: (a) A written statement identifying and signed by the collaborating physician and genetic counselor who are party to the agreement. (b) A general statement of the procedures, decision criteria, or categories of care that a genetic counselor is to follow when ordering genetic tests or other evaluations. (c) A selection of the most appropriate, accurate, and cost-effective methods of diagnosis. (2) Any modification to the collaborative agreement shall be treated as a new agreement. (3) A collaborative agreement must be reevaluated at least every two years and the document reexecuted if any modification is made. (4) A signed copy of the collaborative agreement must be maintained by all parties and available for inspection by the department upon request. |
West Virginia | No licensure law |
Wisconsin | (3) “Genetic counseling” means to do any of the following: (a) Obtain and evaluate individual, family, and medical histories to determine genetic risk for genetic or medical conditions and diseases in a patient, a patient’s offspring, and other family members. (b) Discuss the features, natural history, means of diagnosis, genetic and environmental factors, and management of risk for genetic or medical conditions and diseases. (c) Identify, coordinate, and order genetic laboratory tests as appropriate for a genetic assessment. (d) Integrate genetic laboratory test results with personal and family medical history to assess and communicate risk factors for genetic or medical conditions and diseases. (e) Explain the clinical implications of genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies and their results. (f) Evaluate a patient’s or family’s responses to the condition or risk of recurrence and provide patient−centered counseling and anticipatory guidance. (g) Provide written documentation of medical, genetic, and counseling information for families and health care professionals. |
Wyoming | No licensure law |
