Pathology Support Specialist

Florida Cancer Specialists•Fort Myers, FL

About The Position

The Pathology Support Specialist ensures that pathology test orders in the electronic medical record (EMR) include the information needed for processing. The role enters test and specimen data in the Laboratory Information System (LIS) and manages the workflow from Material Request Form (MRF) follow-ups and material receipt through release for testing, report receipt, and material returns. The specialist works with the Laboratory Business Development team to establish and drive pathology test-order processes that support expedited results. The position reviews orders, patient demographics, insurance information, and supporting documentation; coordinates material requests and receipt; and follows up with reference laboratories and internal teams to resolve outstanding issues. It also includes administrative work, record and metrics maintenance, team participation, training support, laboratory quality and safety practices, and safeguarding patient information.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Medical terminology knowledge.
Strong interpersonal skills, including effective verbal and written communication.
Analysis and critical-thinking skills.
Highly organized and detail-oriented.
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.
Pathology terminology knowledge.
Laboratory Information System (LIS) and Electronic Medical Record (EMR) experience.
Excellent organizational and cross-functional team participation skills.

Responsibilities

Run and process business intelligence (BI) reports to obtain daily test orders, follow up on incomplete or unsigned orders, and continually analyze the functionality of the BI report format.
Review EMR orders for completeness and appropriateness, and confirm that the associated pathology report and ICD-10 code are available.
Review patient demographics and insurance information to ensure tests are directed to the appropriate laboratory.
Accession tests in the LIS accurately and assign the appropriate internal requests (IR), including Cpath and 3P bins.
Create Material Request Forms (MRFs) to obtain material 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 that they contain the requested and correct identifiers.
Deliver materials and documentation to the appropriate laboratory department for testing.
Follow up on and resolve problem holds and outstanding order issues in a timely manner.
Track pending orders, including reference laboratory receipt of orders and materials, testing initiation and 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 related to daily test-order processing, including professional email and phone communications.
Participate in team meetings and activities, including minimal travel.
Maintain records and metrics.
Assist with training new employees in accordance with department protocols and company guidelines.
Comply with laboratory quality-control policies and procedures and applicable clinical laboratory laws and standards.
Use universal precautions when handling paraffin blocks, slides, and other materials.
Maintain patient-information confidentiality and comply with federal and state laws, regulations, and company and departmental policies and procedures.
Keep the work area neat and orderly and maintain company equipment in safe working order.
Perform additional duties and projects as assigned.