Medical Lab Technician / Medical Lab Scientist

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POSITION SUMMARY
This position performs waived and non-waived tests as defined by CLIA '88 in an accurate and timely manner with supervision. Assists with department compliance with all pertinent laboratory accrediting agencies and regulatory requirements (e. g. , CLIA '88, JCAHO, CAP, OSHA). Personnel report to department supervisor. May be responsible for the collection, receipt, and processing of biological specimens into the laboratory.

Performs all functions according to established policies, procedures, regulatory and accreditation requirements, as well as applicable professional standards.

CORE FUNCTIONS
1. Performs testing in an accurate and timely manner according to established policies and performance standards with a knowledge level determined for that testing. Responsible for startup, calibration and accuracy of procedures and instrumentation. Exercises independent judgment and can identify appropriate resources in performance of assigned duties utilizing knowledge and skills. Demonstrates comprehension of theory and clinical relevance of testing. Demonstrates problem resolution and decision-making skills for routine operational and technical problems. Demonstrates knowledge of computer systems used in the department and can perform basic troubleshooting of computer problems. Demonstrates awareness and complies with accrediting agency and regulatory requirements related to area of responsibility.

2. Recognizes and ensures validity of abnormal patient and/or QC results for testing. Ensures accuracy of test results. Participates in detecting and documenting occurrences that deviate from defined procedures. Demonstrates appropriate resolution and follow through for problem solving identified during testing. Promotes and consistently meets department standards for productivity and quality

3. Ensures the appropriate use of supplies and materials and assists with inventory management. Ensures efficient utilization of reagents and supplies. Recognizes and provides input towards opportunities for improvements in financial performance to decrease costs, improve productivity, and improve service.

4. Self-directed and motivated to contribute to projects identified by the supervisor. Seeks out opportunities to identify projects relating to department needs. Active in training of laboratory personnel. Performs well in supervisor's absence and provides guidance on issues relating to pre-analytical, waived and non-waived testing. Completes all required training modules.

5. Communicates courteously, professionally, effectively and accurately with internal and external customers. Participates in the resolution of communication issues. Knows and utilizes appropriate resources for increased levels of problem solving. Demonstrates good verbal and written communication skills. Promotes positive communications that enhances teamwork. Attendance and participation at staff meetings.

6. May process and prepare patient samples as required which can include the following:
1) specimen collection 2) general laboratory specimen processing and 3) referral laboratory processing. In doing so, ensuring correct patient and specimen identification and specimen integrity.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

DIRECTLY REPORTING

None

MATRIX OR INDIRECT REPORTING
Clinical Laboratory Assistants (CLA's), Phlebotomists

TYPE OF SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
N/A

SCOPE AND COMPLEXITY
Primarily departmental responsibility, Involved in interdepartmental communication and activities. Internal Customer - Employees of the system. External Customer - Nurses, physicians, office personnel, and vendors.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ENVIRONMENT FACTORS

Able to stand, walk, bend, squat, reach, and stretch frequently. Use material handling equipment to push/and or pull up to 75 pounds and required to lift, push and/or pull up to 25 pounds. Requires manual dexterity. Must use standard precautions due to threat of exposure to blood and body fluids, chemical, electrical and biological hazards. Ability to distinguish colors and to take direction and assimilate instructions quickly. Requires use of personal computer, printers, copiers, telephone, fax and department specific equipment.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Must exhibit personal maturity and responsibility.

• Excellent reading, writing and math abilities.

• Communicates effectively in oral and written formats sufficient to demonstrate comprehension.

• Ability to perform detailed work; work with frequent interruptions, multi-task, problem solve and memorization.

• Ability to take direction and assimilate instructions quickly.

• Detail oriented and exceptional organizational skills.

• Basic computer skills.

• Must exhibit skills in exceptional customer service, good performance review and passing on-site competency evaluation and /or assessment as defined by the department.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Applicant must meet one of the following criteria to qualify:
  

  • Associate degree in a laboratory science (chemical or biological science) or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution, or

  • Bachelor's degree in chemical or biological science (transcripts will be reviewed to determine eligibility).

  • Equivalent laboratory training and experience meeting the requirements defined in the CLIA regulation 42CFR493. 1489, or

  • Meet other criteria defined in 42CFR493. 1489 or 42CFR493. 1491 (including US military medical laboratory procedures training courses)

• Foreign educated candidates must provide a detailed credential evaluation from IERF (International Education Research Foundation) or other nationally recognized credentialing agency for review to determine eligibility and.