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. (2) “Licensed genetic counselor” means a person licensed to practice genetic counseling.