Requirements | Frequently Asked Questions
Requirements
Genetic counselors are required to complete 75 hours of continuing education (CE) every three years to maintain their license. Visit WAC 246-825-110 to ensure you remain compliant with CE requirements and regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I get an extension of time to complete my continuing education?
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Extensions may be granted for emergency situations only. It's not advisable to wait until the CE is due to request an extension. If you have exhausted all possibilities for fulfilling your continuing competency requirements and are contemplating requesting an extension, keep in mind that extensions of time to complete continuing competency requirements are only granted for extenuating circumstances. Examples of circumstances that are not considered to be extenuating are:
- Employer no longer pays for CE/limited personal funds
- Childcare/pregnancy
- Living outside the U.S.
- Course was cancelled - not enough time to find another
- Working in a state that doesn't require CE
- Recently divorced
- Where do I get information on continuing education classes?
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The Department of Health doesn't provide information about continuing education courses. It's your responsibility to find courses that meet the requirements of the genetic counselor rule, per WAC 246-825-110. You may view the laws relating to genetic counselors on our website.
- What do I do if I am audited for continuing education?
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The Department of Health audits a percentage of all licensed genetic counselors to ensure compliance with the continuing competency requirements. If audited, you'll be required to provide:
- Certificates indicating the date, number of contact hours awarded, program title, and participant's name
OR
- An original letter on official stationery from the continuing education program's sponsor indicating the date, number of contact hours awarded, program title, and participant's name.