Medical Laboratory Scientist III - Reference Lab

University of Arkansas System • Little Rock, AR

2d

About The Position

The Medical Laboratory Scientist III works in the ICE | LPSL CPATH Reference Lab at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. The role sends specimens to referral laboratories in accordance with hospital and laboratory policies and applicable state and federal regulations, obtains and enters referral-lab results into the laboratory information system and patient charts, and supports clients with reference-test orders and specimen coordination. The position also researches potential referral laboratories, consults pathologists and other experts as needed, and assists with inventory and supply needs. Other duties may be assigned.

The role works closely with internal clinic and hospital staff, providers, clients, and referral laboratories to resolve specimen and order issues. It requires maintaining confidentiality and following laboratory procedures, safety precautions, and personal protective equipment requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology or Medical Laboratory Sciences, or an approved ASCP discipline with 30 semester hours in biology and chemistry; the coursework may be obtained within or in addition to the bachelor’s degree.
• Three years of experience.
• ASCP or another accrediting agency certification, or eligibility for certification; certification must be obtained within one year of employment.

Nice To Haves

• DOT/IATA certification.
• ASCP certification or equivalent in at least one laboratory specialty.

Responsibilities

• Use patient identifiers to match requisition information with specimen labels.
• Order specimens, print labels, update specimen status, and complete requisitions.
• Work with referral laboratories to resolve questions or problems involving specimens.
• Notify clients when tests are canceled and obtain results from referral laboratories.
• Enter referral-laboratory results into the patient chart and laboratory information system.
• Work with internal clinic or hospital staff and departments to resolve issues with patient blood draws.
• Maintain strict confidentiality when necessary.
• Contact the appropriate provider when a patient lacks active lab orders in EPIC or when patient orders are unclear.
• Clarify client orders, obtain requisitions, and coordinate specimens requiring special collection or shipping instructions.
• Gather specimens for shipment to reference laboratories.
• Maintain adequate inventory of shipping supplies, order supplies as needed, and distribute supplies to clients.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment and follow laboratory safety precautions and procedure manuals.
• Identify possible causes of routine problems, develop plans to resolve them, and escalate issues to the direct supervisor as needed.
• Coordinate receipt of special collection containers with referral laboratories.
• Resolve patient collection issues with referral laboratories, including arranging mobile phlebotomy in some cases.
• Perform other duties as needed.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision plans for qualifying staff and family.
• Holiday, vacation, and sick leave.
• Education discount for staff and dependents (undergraduate only).
• Retirement contribution match of up to 10%.
• Basic life insurance up to $50,000.
• Career training and educational opportunities.
• Merchant discounts.
• Concierge prescription delivery on the main campus when using the UAMS pharmacy.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level