Overview
The postholder will communicate with patients and their families directly by telephone, video call and face to face to obtain family and medical histories, document consent, and, where relevant, collect appropriate samples for genetic testing. Under supervision, the postholder will support the team in maintaining spreadsheets, databases and portals for gene carriers, provide data entry for online cancer risk assessments, and generate risk calculations for interpretation by genetic counsellors and clinical geneticists. The role may also involve MDT coordination and the collection of data for clinical audits, working within the Clinical Genomics Service under the guidance of Genetic Counsellors and Clinical Geneticists.
Responsibilities
- Communicate with patients and families by telephone, video call and face to face to obtain family and medical histories, document consent and collect samples for genetic testing.
- Maintain spreadsheets, databases and portals for gene carriers.
- Enter data for online cancer risk assessments and generate risk calculations for interpretation by genetic counsellors and clinical geneticists.
- Coordinate MDT activities and collect data for clinical audits.
- Communicate regularly with patients and with clinical, laboratory and administrative teams within other services.
- Liaise with patients, families, clinical teams and laboratories to gather and document family history, consent and clinical information.
- Support informed decision‑making about genomic testing, including reasons, outcomes, timelines, data security and research opportunities.
- Communicate compassionately and facilitate understanding for all patients, including those from diverse or marginalised backgrounds.
- Send and process information/consent packs before and after clinics.
- Accurately document patient interactions, consent and results in line with NHS/Trust policies.
- Coordinate and track genomic testing pathways, including blood/saliva and tumour/tissue samples, keeping clinicians and patients updated.
- Under supervision, complete referrals to screening services and track acceptance.
- Assist in reviewing genetic test reports and liaise with laboratories to request variant reviews.
- Respond appropriately to information requests from other services.
- Manage distressed patient contact professionally, escalating when required.
- Maintain confidentiality, data protection and safeguarding standards.
- Assist with service development, audits, research data collection and patient information systems.
- Participate in MDTs, patient support events and training.
- Prepare standard letters and communications; use IT systems proficiently (Excel, PowerPoint, Cerner, Phenotips).
- Promote flexible, cooperative team working and uphold Trust values in all interactions.
Department
The department provides a comprehensive genetic service to 4.1 million people in North West London, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire, with close links to St. Marks Hospital Familial Cancer Clinic. Clinics are conducted from our base at Northwick Park Hospital and peripheral clinics within the North West Thames region.
