Pathology Support Specialist

Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute•Fort Myers, FL

About The Position

The Pathology Support Specialist ensures that pathology test orders entered in the electronic medical record (EMR) contain the information required for processing. The role enters test and specimen data into the Laboratory Information System (LIS) and manages workflow, including material request form (MRF) follow-ups, receipt of materials, release for testing, receipt of reports, and return of materials. The specialist works with the Laboratory Business Development team to establish and advance pathology test-order processes that support expedited results. The position also performs administrative and clerical work related to daily test-order processing, maintains records and metrics, supports training of new employees, and assists with additional duties or projects as assigned. It requires protecting patient confidentiality, following laboratory quality-control procedures and applicable laws, observing universal precautions when handling paraffin blocks and slides, and adhering to company and departmental policies.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Knowledge of medical terminology.
Strong interpersonal skills, including effective verbal and written communication.
Strong analysis and critical-thinking skills.
Highly organized and detail oriented, with strong organizational and cross-functional team participation skills.
Ability to work independently and prioritize effectively.
Moderate to high-level computer skills, including Microsoft Office products.
Ability to multitask.

Nice To Haves

At least three years of experience in a medical, clinical, or laboratory setting is preferred.
Pathology terminology is preferred.
Laboratory Information System and Electronic Medical Record experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

Run and process business intelligence (BI) reports to obtain daily test orders, and continuously analyze the reports’ functionality and format.
Follow up on incomplete or unsigned orders.
Review EMR orders for completeness and appropriateness, confirm that the associated pathology report and ICD-10 code are available, and review patient demographics and insurance to direct tests to the appropriate laboratory.
Accession tests in the LIS and assign the appropriate internal requests, including Cpath and 3P bins.
Create material request forms for in-house testing and send MRFs to reference laboratories when insurance does not allow in-house testing.
Receive and examine specimens and materials, including paraffin blocks and slides, to verify requested and correct identifiers.
Deliver materials and documentation to the appropriate laboratory department for testing.
Resolve problem holds and outstanding order issues in a timely manner.
Follow up on pending orders, including reference laboratory order receipt, material receipt, testing initiation, reporting, order completeness, and material returns.
Coordinate with staff pathologists to provide real-time feedback and answer questions about pathology services.
Perform administrative and clerical duties for daily test-order processing, including professional email and phone communications.
Participate in team meetings and activities, which may include minimal travel.
Maintain records and metrics.
Assist in training new employees according to department protocols and company guidelines.
Follow quality-control policies and procedures and applicable clinical laboratory standards and laws.
Use universal precautions when handling paraffin blocks and slides.
Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with federal and state laws and regulations related to patient care, patient rights, safety, billing, and collections.
Follow company and departmental policies and procedures, including IT policies and the Disaster Recovery Plan.
Keep the work area neat and orderly and maintain company equipment in safe working order.
Perform other job-related duties or projects as assigned.