Terms Used In Rhode Island General Laws 5-92-2

• 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. See Rhode Island General Laws 5-92-3