Definitions.

As used in this part, the term:

(1) “Department” means the Department of Health.

(2) “Genetic counselor” means a person licensed under this part to practice genetic counseling.

(3) “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.