MLS Point of Care Testing Specialist

Mass General Brigham•Boston, MA

3d•$34 - $50•Onsite

About The Position

Mass General Brigham relies on a wide range of professionals, including doctors, nurses, business people, tech experts, researchers, and systems analysts to advance our mission. As a not-for-profit, we support patient care, research, teaching, and community service, striving to provide exceptional care. We believe that high-performing teams drive groundbreaking medical discoveries and invite all applicants to join us and experience what it means to be part of Mass General Brigham. Job Summary Summary The Medical Laboratory Scientist Technical Specialist for Point of Care Testing (MLS TS), in their role as Testing Personnel as defined by CLIA, may perform waived and non-waived testing. Each individual performs only those tests authorized by the Laboratory Director and that require a degree of skill commensurate with the individual's education, training, or experience and technical abilities. Under general supervision, and after successful completion of orientation, training, and competency assessment on all instruments/methods applicable to their role, the MLS Technical Specialist (MLS TS) carries out all policies and performs all tests in accordance with the laboratory's standard operating procedures. Works independently in an efficient and organized manner to assure accurate results and records. The work requires a professional level of knowledge to read and interpret accurately test results used by providers in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Under the general supervision of the Clinical Manager/ Department Director and Lab Director, the MLS Technical Specialist (MLS TS) is responsible for all Point of Care (POC) activities performed in both inpatient and outpatient sites. As subject-matter experts (SMEs) for point-of-care testing, they work collaboratively with Nursing, Ambulatory Services, and other testing site leaders. Primary responsibilities include management of system operations utilizing Telcor and vendor specific systems, instrument validations and implementation, configuration and implementation, IQCP creation and review, review of Quality Control (QC)/Quality Assurance (QA), documentation of instrument maintenance, troubleshooting and correlations, training and competency assessment of testing personnel, inventory management, oversight of proficiency testing program, development and revisions of policies and procedures, and regulatory activities including site compliance surveillance and follow-up. Does this position require Patient Care? No

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree Medical Laboratory Science required or Bachelor's Degree Related Field of Study required
Medical Technologist (ASCP) [MLT, MT, MLA, Histologists] - American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification (ASCP-BOC) required
Clinical Laboratory experience as required to serve as the CLIA Technical Consultant 5-7 years required
The advanced knowledge, both practical and theoretical, of tests and procedures necessary to review findings and advise testing personnel. Demonstrates an advanced level of analytical skills and judgment.
Must be able to effectively evaluate the accuracy of results. Able to pay consistent attention to detail.
The manual/visual dexterity and skills necessary to operate, adjust, and make repairs to various types of automated and non-automated laboratory equipment.
Must have an advanced understanding of laboratory equipment and its operation, maintenance, and repair, and analytic techniques and IQCPs.
Can recognize problems with tests, QC, analyzers, and samples that could impact test results.
Demonstrates ability to contribute to the review or development of new procedures.
Demonstrates ability to identify and contribute to performance improvement, work re-design, or quality/safety projects.
Must have the ability to work independently, evaluate situations, and act appropriately. Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
Must have basic computer skills, knowledge of Microsoft Office, and the ability to compile and analyze data.
Must have the ability to pay careful attention to detail and to adhere to written protocols.
Must be able to perform as a team member, provide leadership, guidance, and direction to staff.
The supervisory and managerial abilities necessary to direct and coordinate the activities of personnel/indirect staff and POCT operations. Ability to oversee staff and make operational decisions.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to interact professionally and effectively with numerous staff, including physicians, hospital personnel, employees, vendors, and patients.

Responsibilities

Responsible for the recommendation of test methodology appropriate for the clinical use of the test results.
Responsible for the recommendation of test methodologies/instrumentation, including test performance characteristics, precision, and accuracy appropriate for the clinical use of test results. Works in collaboration with vendors.
Responsible for ensuring enrollment and participation in a CMS-approved proficiency testing (PT) program for the testing performed; that PT samples are tested in accordance with the CLIA requirements; that PT results are returned within the time frames established by the PT program; that PT reports are reviewed by the appropriate staff, including CLIA Lab Director, Medical Director, and corrective action plans are followed when PT results are found to be unacceptable or unsatisfactory.
Responsible for establishing a quality control program appropriate for the testing performed, establishing the parameters for acceptable levels of analytical performance, and ensuring that these levels are maintained throughout the entire testing process from the initial receipt of the specimen, through sample analysis, and reporting of test results.
Responsible for resolving technical problems and ensuring that remedial actions are taken whenever test systems deviate from the established performance specifications.
Responsible for ensuring that processes (e.g., QC lockouts, repeat criteria are established, etc.) are in place to ensure that patient test results are not reported until corrective actions have been taken and the test system is functioning properly.
Responsible for developing the training needs of the testing personnel and assuring that training/education is appropriate for the type and complexity of testing performed.
Responsible for developing competency assessment modules for testing personnel. In collaboration with testing location leadership, ensures competency assessments are completed and documented at required times. Non-waived testing requires competency assessment at least semi-annually during the first year and annually thereafter unless test methodology or instrumentation changes.