32-2701. Definitions

In this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires:

1. "Active candidate status" means that a person meets the requirements established by the American board of genetic counseling, or its successor, to take the American board of genetic counseling's certification examination in general genetics and genetic counseling and has been granted this designation.

2. "Board" means the board of genetic counselors.

3. "Certification" means certification as a genetic counselor by the American board of genetic counseling, or its successor, or the American board of medical genetics and genomics, or its successor, or certification as a Phd geneticist by the American board of medical genetics and genomics, or its successor.

4. "Director" means the director of the board.

5. "Genetic counseling" means a communication process that may include:

(a) Estimating the likelihood of the occurrence or recurrence of any potential inherited or genetically influenced condition or congenital abnormality, including:

(i) Obtaining and analyzing the complete health history of an individual and the individual's family members.

(ii) Reviewing pertinent medical records.

(iii) Evaluating the risks from exposure to possible mutagens or teratogens.

(iv) Determining appropriate genetic testing or other evaluations to diagnose a condition or determine the carrier status of one or more family members.

(v) Ordering, coordinating and disclosing genetic laboratory tests and results and other diagnostic studies as appropriate for the genetic assessment.

(b) Helping an individual, family member or health care provider to:

(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 a disorder and affect the chance for occurrence of the disorder in other family members.

(iii) Understand available options for coping with, preventing or reducing the chance of the disorder occurring in other family members.

(c) Facilitating an individual's or family member's:

(i) Exploration of the perception of risk and burden associated with a genetic disorder.

(ii) Adjustment and adaptation to a disorder or the individual's or family member's genetic risk by addressing needs for psychological, social and medical support.

6. "Genetic counseling intern" means a student who is enrolled in a genetic counseling program accredited by the American board of genetic counseling, or its successor, or the American board of medical genetics and genomics, or its successor.

7. "Genetic counselor" means a person who is licensed pursuant to this chapter to engage in the practice of genetic counseling.