2013 Hawaii Revised Statutes
TITLE 25. PROFESSIONS AND OCCUPATIONS
451K. Genetic Counselors
451K-1 Definitions.

§451K-1 Definitions. As used in this chapter, unless the context requires otherwise:

"Active candidate status" means documentation of eligibility to take the American Board of Genetic Counseling or its equivalent certification examinations.

"Board certified" means an individual who has passed the American Board of Genetic Counseling certification examination and remains actively certified by American Board of Genetic Counseling or its equivalent.

"Department" means the department of health.

"Director" means the director of health.

"Genetic counseling practice" means the rendering of professional counseling services based on specialized education and training to individuals, families, or groups for compensation, monetary or otherwise. These counseling services include the communication process which deals with the human problems associated with the occurrence, or the risk of occurrence, of a genetic disorder. "Genetic counseling practice" includes:

(1) Obtaining and interpreting individual, family, medical, developmental, and reproductive histories;

(2) Determining the mode of inheritance and risk of transmission of genetic conditions and birth defects;

(3) Discussing the inheritance, features, natural history, means of diagnosis, and management of these conditions;

(4) Identifying, coordinating, interpreting, and explaining genetic laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies;

(5) Assessing psychological factors and recognizing social, educational, and cultural issues related to having or being at risk for genetic conditions;

(6) Evaluating the client's or family's responses to the genetic condition or risk of having the genetic condition, and providing client-centered counseling and anticipatory guidance;

(7) Communicating information to their clients in an understandable manner;

(8) Facilitating informed decision-making about testing, treatment, and management;

(9) Identifying and effectively using community resources that provide medical, educational, financial, and psychosocial support and advocacy; and

(10) Providing accurate written documentation of medical, genetic, and counseling information for families and health care professionals.

"Genetic counselor" means a person licensed under this chapter who engages in genetic counseling practice.

"Licensed genetic counselor" means an individual who holds a license in good standing to practice genetic counseling under this chapter. [L 2009, c 191, pt of §2]