Pathologist Assistant in Schenectady , New York at Ellis Medicine

SECTION I:

BASIC FUNCTION:

The Pathologist Assistant performs gross descriptions and dissections of tissue specimens submitted to the laboratory for pathological examination under the supervision of a Pathologist. This role provides technical support for frozen sections and performs designated histology functions to ensure service levels are maintained. The ideal candidate functions as a seamless extension of the pathologist, understanding workflow, maintaining high accuracy, and ensuring patient safety.

SECTION II:

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Baccalaureate or higher degree in an NYSED-registered program, OR a NAACLS-accredited pathologists’ assistant program, OR a determined substantial equivalent.

LICENSURE:

• Must be licensed as a Pathologists’ Assistant by the New York State Education Department (NYSED).

SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Independent, mature, self-motivated, reliable, and responsible.
• Able to deal with all types of customers in a pleasant, professional manner.
• Exceptional organizational capacity to manage high-volume workflows.
• Ability to troubleshoot technical and workflow problems effectively.

SECTION III:

MAKING ELLIS EXCEPTIOANAL (MEE) BEHAVIOR & STANDARDS

Ownership:

• Must accept constructive feedback from co-workers and manager/supervisor/technical specialist and respond by working to improve behaviors or performance if appropriate
• Supports and accepts hospital policies, decisions and changes.
• Reads all department and organizational communication in a timely manner.
• Completes all mandatory hospital and department- based competencies within the required time frame.

SECTION IV:

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Should be able to push/pull, lift/move 35 lb., be able to perform moderately difficult manual manipulations such as using a keyboard, writing, and filing for extended periods of time, must be able to perform tasks which require hand eye coordination such as data entry, typing and using photo copiers. Mobility requirements include the ability to comprehend the spoken English language in addition to being able to communicate and read the English language.

SECTION V:

ESSENTAIL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Safety & Compliance:

• Verifies inpatient and outpatient laboratory specimens using Proper Patient ID protocols.
• Adheres strictly to infection control, safety, chemical hygiene, and hazardous waste disposal regulations.
• Maintains a clean, safe, and organized grossing workstation.
• Always Utilizes appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Documents and reports all laboratory accidents, exposures, or safety hazards immediately.

Gross Pathology & Dissection:

• Examines, measures, weighs, and describes gross features of surgical specimens.
• Dissects tissue samples under the direct or indirect supervision of a Pathologist.
• Selects and submits relevant diagnostic tissue sections for subsequent histopathological processing.
• Dictates accurate, concise gross findings using laboratory dictation and information systems.

Frozen Section Support:

• Provides rapid technical support during intraoperative frozen section consultations.
• Performs precise tissue embedding, freezing, and microtome cryostat sectioning.
• Stains and mounts frozen slides quickly for immediate diagnostic review by the Pathologist.

Laboratory Information System (LIS) Utilization

• Demonstrates full proficiency in the daily use of the LIS for specimen logging, tracking, and data entry.
• Inputs accurate, complete, and timely data into the LIS for every specimen.
• Utilizes LIS barcode scanning features to track specimens throughout the processing lifecycle.
• Cross-checks LIS data fields against physical specimen labels to prevent misidentification.
• Follows established laboratory downtime procedures during system outages, including utilizing manual logs, paper requisitions, and backup temporary numbering systems.
• Accurately back-enters manual downtime data into the LIS once the system is fully restored to ensure complete medical records.
• Adheres to patient privacy laws (HIPAA) by accessing LIS data on a strictly need-to-know basis.
• Reports LIS software glitches, communication errors, or charting discrepancies to laboratory IT immediately.

Quality Control & Laboratory Operations:

• Ensures absolute accuracy in specimen labeling, cassette numbering, and data entry.
• Resolves specimen discrepancies or processing errors prior to dissection.
• Monitors, cleans, and maintains laboratory equipment, automated processors, and instruments.
• Coordinates daily workflow with histology technicians to meet established section turnaround