Pathologists' Assistant

Spectrum Healthcare Partners•Portland, ME

About The Position

Spectrum Healthcare Partners is Maine’s largest multi-specialty, physician-owned and directed professional organization and is comprised of approximately 200 physicians practicing in the areas of anesthesiology, pathology, radiation oncology, radiology, and vascular & interventional radiology. Spectrum provides services at many of Maine’s hospitals throughout the state and in eastern New Hampshire. POSITION SUMMARY Under the supervision of a pathologist, this position assists with all aspects of surgical specimen processing, frozen section preparation, and postmortem examination performed at our sites of service as required.

Requirements

Master’s degree granted by an NAACLS-accredited pathologists’ assistant training program preferred
Pathologists’ Assistant (ASCP) certification, or eligible
Excellent communication skills
Ability to work independently and as a member of a team
Well organized with meticulous attention to detail
Proficient computer skills to include Epic Beaker, Microsoft Office, Dragon Medical One
Excellent interpersonal skills with strong relationship-building skills
Skills in developing and maintaining department quality assurance
Dedicated to the highest quality patient care
Ability to maintain confidentiality

Responsibilities

Surgical Pathology - Reviews clinical history and pertinent imaging and performs gross examination of designated surgical specimens with submission of diagnostic tissue needed for microscopic examination. Performs gross photography of specimens when appropriate or when requested.
Frozen Sections - Receives, examines and records all pertinent information. Processes frozen sections, touch preps, and gross margin statuses, with prompt delivery to a Pathologist. Utilizes remote and digital workflows.
Special Protocols - Completes required paperwork and triages tissue for specialized protocols, including, renal biopsies, muscle and peripheral nerve biopsies, pediatric tumor protocols, cytogenetic studies, radiographing breast specimens, and lymphoma workups.
Autopsy Pathology - Under the supervision of a Pathologist, assists in the performance of Postmortem examinations after reviewing appropriate documentation and permits. Functions include external examination, organ inspection and gross description, evisceration, dissection and submission of diagnostic tissue for microscopic examination, gross photography, data entry, and completion of the Preliminary Anatomic Diagnosis report (PAD).
Under supervision of a Pathologist, collects and enters appropriate data needed to ensure quality performance, including Autopsy QA reports.
Research - Ensures proper handling of specimens and tissue procurement in preparation for future special studies.
Participates in BioBank activities including tissue collection and review of schedule, slides and reports.
Performs designated projects for special studies, education and development of departmental protocols. Possible assignments could include: Participation in teaching activities (students and residents) when appropriate Participation in digital initiatives Review and update policies and procedures, under the supervision of a Pathologist Collection of tissue for various studies and controls including immunohistochemistry and special stain
Maintains equipment, ensures cleanliness of work environment
Initiates and participates in professional growth in pathology and related fields
Develops and completes specialized and individual projects (approved by the Physician Grossing Staff Director or Pathologists’ Assistants Supervisor)
Provides rotational coverage at multiple sites - distributed among full-time and part-time pathologists’ assistants to include Saturday coverage for grossing of surgical specimens
Maintains competency by reading professional literature, participating in continuing education, and maintaining professional affiliations and certifications
Attends required meetings and participates in various clinical committees, as required
Ensures the development of strong positive relationships and collegiality among team members, pathologists, and facility staff
Demonstrates professionalism at all times
Displays cooperative behavior and interacts positively and effectively with others to promote a strong team environment
Performs other duties necessary to maintain the overall efficiency and continuity of the department
Proactively identifies, reports and participates in the resolution of any potential or actual patient safety issues
Supports Company vision and values