LEAD CYTOTECHNOLOGIST

Processes cytology specimens to produce quality slides. Examines cells on slide preparations for evidence of normality, abnormality and other pathological conditions. Oversees processes within the Cytology Department for processes and staff.

Essential Job Functions

• Procedures, prepares and processes specimens to ensure maximum cellular retrieval while maintaining specimen integrity and identity.
• prepares specimens, stains and processes slides for all cytological specimens in accordance with procedures
• determines appropriate method of processing to aid in maximum cellular retrieval and specimen integrity
• demonstrates and coordinates multiple tasks with precision and flexibility to provide quality slides within minimum turnaround time
• serves as a resource person for cyto prep personnel
• identifies problems, collects data to establish facts and draw valid conclusions; takes appropriate corrective action to resolve issues
• assists pathologist/radiologist in collection of fine needle specimens
• Demonstrates skills in utilization of Pathology, LIS and HIS computer system functions.
• uses HIS effectively to retrieve information and process supply or work orders
• accesses LIS for communication functions
• demonstrates proficiency in use of the system intranet for informational purposes
• works with pathology software on a daily basis to accurately enter and extract information
• Uses the pathology software to document tracking issues, QA, etc.
• Applies knowledge of pathological disease states to evaluate microscopic cell preparations. Correlates with patient history to determine the presence of abnormalities.
• demonstrates a knowledge of principles of cellular development of human life and disease stages
• screens gynecological slides accurately, reports results in accordance to current system and refers abnormal cellular findings to a pathologist
• screens non-gynecological smears accurately, records findings and refers all slides to a pathologist in a timely manner
• verifies results prior to release
• reads and comprehends final results to abstract pertinent information and statistics
• determines course of action to be taken based on analysis results; performs billing, documentation or ordering of reflexed tests as appropriate
• interprets an extensive variety of diagnoses
• Utilizes and maintains the Cytyc imager system to screen cytology slides.
• maintains imaging system and backup data according to manufacturer's guidelines
• evaluates error logs after each imager run
• maintains error rates due to technical problems (slides that fail imaging) at less than or equal to 7%
• troubleshoots, reads and interprets error codes, finds resolution to problems, documents appropriately
• Coordinates quality control activities to comply with regulations and guidelines.
• responsible for performance, evaluation and documentation of appropriate quality control procedures
• recognizes, takes corrective action to resolve, and documents quality control issues
• maintains policy and procedure manuals to assure compliance
• assures that remedial actions are taken when test systems deviate from established performance standards
• Interfaces with members of section, manager, pathologists and other healthcare providers to gather and exchange information to expedite the delivery of laboratory services and results
• communicates, in a timely and professional manner, with physician and office personnel regarding physician orders and specimen integrity issues
• responds positively to requests for assistance in the collection of cytologic specimens, e.g. fine needle aspirates
• interacts with pathologists in active professional discussion involving the applied knowledge of cytologic findings and clinical interpretations, while maintaining utmost confidentiality
• provides technical assistance and expertise to staff to resolve technical and operational problems
• Facilitates the timely progression of cytology cases through the Pathology department.
• coordinates and organizes work processes to maintain operational preparedness
• monitors the progression of cases to minimize turnaround time
• responds positively to priority requests for assistance in the collection of cytologic specimens, e.g. fine needle aspirates
• maintains files and slides to facilitate easy and reliable retrieval
• maintains case turnaround times to comply with CAP guidelines
• Maintains technical and theoretical expertise in the field of cytology in order to serve as a resource to staff.
• remains current in developments in the field of cytology
• incorporates critical thinking and analytical skills to resolve complex problems
• correlates patient data to disease state in order to assess possibility of inconsistent results/sources of error; takes corrective action to resolve
• maintains a working knowledge of appropriate billing and CPT coding practices in cytology
• involved in development and implementation of new protocols
• identifies cost containment opportunities
• recommends revisions to workflow and procedures to promote new and innovative approaches to service delivery
• Coordinates quality management activities to comply with all regulations and guidelines
• responsible for performance and documentation of quality management activities
• monitors ASCUS, HSIL, LSIL, etc. as recommended by regulatory guidelines and laboratory management; communicates findings to physicians' offices as appropriate
• maintains policy and procedure manuals to assure compliance as related to quality management, record retention, proficiency testing, billing and results reporting
• identifies cost containment opportunities
• recommends revisions to workflow and procedures to promote new and innovative approaches to service delivery
• compiles slide statistics
• works with laboratory manager to identify and assess annual competencies for cytoprep staff
• Recommend, develop and maintains section operations to assure compliance with regulatory agencies(CLIA'88, CAP, JCAHO, OSHA, DOH) as related, but not limited to:
• quality control
• quality management
• record retention
• proficiency testing
• billing
• safety
• results reporting
• waste management
• Other duties as assigned.

Specialty Essential Functions

• Demonstrates a general broad knowledge of laboratory operations, uses judgment skills in assigned work areas to facilitate the investigation and resolution of problem situations
• demonstrates a knowledge of the theoretical aspects of laboratory tests and methods; serves as a resource for cytology staff; advises manager of continuing education and training opportunities
• evaluates laboratory data to assess the need for recollection and/or repeat testing of the specimen
• reassigns work stations as needed to resolve problem situations
• incorporates learned theory, recognizing the interdependence of test and physiological conditions influencing results, identifies and resolves problems
• recognizes and resolves complex instrumentation issues, confers with manufacturer's field engineers or technical personnel as needed
• consults manager/director when correct course of action is in question
• initiates corrective action when test systems deviate from established performance standards
• Recognizes the need for and demonstrates a willingness to lead a section that delivers quality laboratory services
• interacts with other healthcare providers to interpret laboratory results within the framework of cytology, and does so in a courteous and professional manner
• recognizes opportunities for positive interaction with healthcare workers in other disciplines, showing a willingness to resolve issues as they occur
• advises other staff and appropriately holds them accountable to comply with quality, accuracy and procedural requirements
• demonstrates a consistent ability to assess a situation from multiple perspectives, considering alternatives before choosing an appropriate course of action
• recognizes and responds independently to needs of the laboratory staff to achieve timely delivery of laboratory services
• takes an active role in staff training, e.g. technical training at the bench
• discuss quality issues and questions with pathologists
• Demonstrates initiative and participates in self and operational development.
• leads section preparation for accreditation (CAP, JCAHO, OSHA, DOH, etc.), delegates accreditation tasks to technical personnel and assures completion
• completes all assigned procedures during shift and regularly uses time to laboratory advantage; manages additional responsibilities within the time frame assigned
• oversees and participates in the updating and maintenance of policy and procedure manuals
• recommends and assists in the implementation of workflow process changes; promotes new and innovative approaches to operations while complying with all regulatory requirements; identifies cost containment opportunities
• assumes supervisory responsibilities in absence of supervisor
• provides input as requested into performance reviews and hiring decisions
• recognizes opportunities for lean process improvements; works to develop and implement
• Complies and holds other technical staff accountable for compliance with all established guidelines as documented in policies and procedures
• monitors quality control and quality management for variance to approved protocol and reports to supervisor
• monitors the reporting and documentation of critical values and read back verifications according to policy
• participates in, reviews and evaluates proficiency testing, documents corrective action as needed, confers with supervisor

Required Qualifications

• Completion of Bachelor's Degree in a related field.
• Three (3) years' experience as a Cytologist.
• Strong leadership ability, good organizational skills, independent and critical thinking skills, sound judgment.
• Strong ability to communicate complex and/or controversial topics and concepts to a wide and diverse audience.
• Functional Skills on PC and Related Software (Microsoft Office).

Preferred Qualifications

• No preferred qualifications.

License, Certification & Clearances

• Act 34-PA Criminal Record Check from the PA State Police system
• Registered as a Cytologist with the America Society of Clinical Pathologists

Supervisory Responsibilities

• This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities, but does serve as a coach and mentor for other positions in the department.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• Incumbent will be scheduled based on operational need (rotate shifts, standby, on-call, etc.).
• Travel may be expected locally between Independence Health locations.

LEAN

• Actively promotes a Lean work culture by performing team member duties to encourage consistent use of LEAN principles and processes, including continually seeking work process improvements. Recognizes the necessity of taking ownership of one's own motivation, morale, performance and professional development. Strives for behavior consistent with being committed to Independence's missions, vision and values.

AAP/EEO

• Independence Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the policy of Independence Health to prohibit discrimination of any type and to afford equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, non-job related disability, veteran status, or genetic information, or any other protected class. Independence Health will conform to the spirit as well as the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.
• Ability to perform the Essential Functions listed on the Physical Conditions and ability to perform the Essential Functions on the Working Condition chart below.

Work Environment

Effective March 2020 or during pandemic: goggles, face shield and mask are required according to CDC guidelines

When lift requirement is in excess of 50#, lift assistance (2 person) and/or transfer device is required.

Essential - Absolute Necessity.

Marginal - Minimal Necessity.

Constantly - 5.5 to 8 hours or more or 200 reps/shift.

Frequently - 2.5 to 5.5 hours or more or 32-200 reps/shift.

Occasionally - 0.25 to 2.5 hours or 2-32 reps/shift.

Rarely - Less than 0.25 hours or less than 2 reps/shift.

Physical Condition

Essential

Marginal

Constantly

Frequently

Occasionally

Rarely

Never

Extreme Heat

X

X

Extreme Cold

X

X

Heights

X

X

Confined Spaces

X

X

Extreme Noise(>85dB)

X

X

Mechanical Hazards

X

X

Use of Vibrating Tools

X

X

Operates Vehicle

X

Operates Heavy Equipment

X

Use of Lifting/Transfer Devices

X

Rotates All Shifts

X

X

8 Hours Shifts

X

X

10-12 Hours Shifts

X

X

On-Call

X

Overtime(+8/hrs/shift; 40/hr/wk)

X

X

Travel Between Sites

X

X

Direct Patient Care

X

X

Respirator Protective Equipment

X

X

Eye Protection

X

X

Head Protection (hard hat)

X

Hearing Protection

X

X

Hand Protection

X

X

Feet, Toe Protection

X

Body Protection

X

X

Latex Exposure

X

X

Solvent Exposure

X

X

Paint (direct use) Exposure

X

Dust (sanding) Exposure

X

Ethylene Oxide Exposure

X

Cytotoxic (Chemo) Exposure

X

Blood/Body Fluid Exposure

X

X

Chemicals (direct use) Exposure

X

X

Mist Exposure

X

Wax Stripper (direct use)

X

Non-Ionizing Radiation Exposure

X

Ionizing Radiation Exposure

X

Laser Exposure

X

X

Physical Demands

When lift requirement is in excess of 50#, lift assistance (2 person) and/or transfer device is required.

Essential - Absolute Necessity.

Marginal - Minimal Necessity.

Constantly - 5.5 to 8 hours or more or 200 reps/shift.

Frequently - 2.5 to 5.5 hours or more or 32-200 reps/shift.

Occasionally - 0.25 to 2.5 hours or 2-32 reps/shift.

Rarely - Less than 0.25 hours or less than 2 reps/shift.

Physical Condition

Essential

Marginal

Constantly

Frequently

Occasionally

Rarely

Never

Bending (Stooping)

X

X

Sitting

X

X

Walking

X

X

Climbing Stairs

X

X

Climbing Ladders

X

X

Standing

X

X

Kneeling

X

X

Squatting (Crouching)

X

X

Twisting/Turning

X

X

Keyboard/Computer Operation

X

X

Gross Grasp

X

X

Fine Finger Manipulation

X

X

Hand/Arm Coordination

X

X

Pushing/Pulling(lbs. of force)

X

X

Carry

X

X

Transfer/Push/Pull Patients

X

Seeing Near w/Acuity

X

X

Feeling (Sensation)

X

X

Color Vision

X

X

Hearing Clearly

X

X

Pulling/Pushing Objects Overhead

X

X

Reaching Above Shoulder Level

X

X

Reaching Forward

X

X

Lifting Floor to Knuckle

X

25#

Lifting Seat Pan to Knuckle

X

10#

Lifting Knuckle to Shoulder

X

10#

Lifting Shoulder to Overhead

X

10#

When lift requirement is in excess of 50#, lift assistance (2 person) and/or transfer