POSITION SUMMARY
This position is responsible for the receipt of biological specimens, their proper entry into the company’s computer system, and their preparation for analytical testing. Greets patients and obtains all necessary information needed for designated procedure. Provides and ensures a positive experience for all patients. Solves problems arising from the management of routine procedures as well as more sophisticated or unusual tests. Performs continuous quality improvement, the development of procedures and practices, and ensures compliance with regulatory and accrediting agencies. Provides technical and procedural oversight in concert with the shift supervisor and coordinator.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
1. Enters and verifies patient demographics, location, physician data, tests requested, time and date of collection, appropriate clinical information, and all other pertinent data found on requisitions as required for processing and billing. Verifies accuracy of entered information. Verifies appropriateness of specimens’ received. Receives and processes biological specimens and prepares them for analytical testing. Ensures correct patient and specimen identification and specimen integrity by using appropriate techniques for all age criteria as required. Performs continuous quality improvement, the development of procedures and practices, and ensures compliance with regulatory and accrediting agencies.
2. Focuses on quality by assuring that all work performed is accurate and complete. Completes documents legibly and accurately per site protocol. Follows established methods and practices. Maintains familiarity with departmental procedures. Uses appropriate documentation to record communications. Communicate courteously and professionally and responds accordingly. Initiates computer generated reports as required for patient reporting and quality assurance monitoring. Meets departmental standards for productivity and quality as currently defined. Identifies and resolves issues and provides input to supervisor on all matters relevant to the assigned shift. Participates in the colleague feedback process for other Specimen Processing staff.
3. Participates in departmental financial responsibilities through the appropriate use of supplies and materials. Avoids excessive waste. Participates in department initiatives to reduce costs and improve service. Commitment to error free work environment.
4. Communicates courteously and professionally with internal and external customers. Interacts with co-workers with an emphasis on teamwork and a focus on customer service. All employees must be able to work all areas/departments/shifts as assigned. Resolves basic service issues. Attends meetings and remains current with internal/external communications, i.e. e-mail, newsletters, etc. Increased knowledge of laboratory terminology.
5. Acknowledges and understands the importance of ‘Patient Rights’ and privacy (HIPAA). Promotes, supports and exhibits behavior consistent with the Mission, Vision, and Values of Laboratory Sciences of Arizona and customer-focused care.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Must be 18 years of age. High school graduate or GED and six (6) months experience in specimen preparation, or equivalent processing experience. Demonstrated problem solving ability, critical judgment, and basic leadership skills. Knowledge of department policies and practices. Significant understanding of commonly used concepts, practices and procedures regarding the use of computer software. Oral and written communication skills including typing and good telephone etiquette. May require special knowledge and skills in one or more of the following areas: basic clerical duties, financial transactions, training, workflow management, processing non-routine samples, or referral testing protocols. High degree of customer service skills. Knowledge of medical terminology.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Associates Degree in a related field. Basic knowledge of billing.
