LABORATORY TECHNICIAN

Job Details Job Location: HARLINGEN CLINIC - HARLINGEN, TX 78550 General Description of Position This position is vital in the health care delivery system. It is traditionally the patient’s first clinical point of contact, so patient relationship, management of patient care, management of patient information, team communication, and demonstration of safer and professional conduct using patient‑centered medical home principles, policies and procedures is critical. The Technician will perform pediatric, adult and geriatric venipunctures, finger sticks, and heel sticks as ordered by the Provider. They will conduct routine and special laboratory tests without supervision and as described in the Laboratory Procedure Manual, maintain accurate laboratory records, and make them available for inspections/audits by Lab Supervisor, Lab Director, Lab Consultant, and CLIA Surveyors. The Technician also performs necessary quality controls, participates in the proficiency testing program, and maintains lab instruments as indicated by manufacturer recommendations. This position requires weekend rotations and evening coverage as needed. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Patient Relationships Will greet and welcome the patient in a pleasant, respectful, culturally and linguistically appropriate manner. Arrives patients and completes the lab visit in the EMR system following established lab workflows (SOP). Ensures all patient questions are answered in a positive and cordial manner. Assures the patient has a clear understanding of all communications and verifies lab orders are ready for patients with a lab appointment, reminding the patient of the importance of keeping the appointment and/or communicating any changes. Management of Patient Care Collects appropriate specimens for testing and instructs patients on specimen collection. Completes lab orders in the EMR for all tests requested and collected. Prepares and processes specimens sent out to reference laboratories when necessary, performs patient testing and reporting as described in the Laboratory Manual, and performs routine tests with accuracy and precision under minimal/no supervision. Follows established SOP when transcribing in‑house lab results electronically; tracks, reconciles and reviews lab reports daily or as needed and follows policies in place for priority and panic value reporting. Management of Patient Information Delivers panic lab results to the ordering or assigned provider with a log. Performs quality control measures to validate test results and monitor QC data, and participates in an external proficiency testing program. Keeps and maintains all laboratory records and controls on file for 2 years and organizes and upkeeps QC records for monthly review. Adheres to all HIPAA regulations in and outside of the Clinic and communicates patient information as requested to enhance patient services. Team Communication Participates in department huddles. Approaches patient care as a team involving clinical and non‑clinical staff (e.g., Physicians, mid‑levels, educators, appointment staff) to achieve patient care objectives. Informs the Supervisor of supplies needed and/or orders supplies as needed. Demonstration of Safer and Professional Conduct Calibrates instruments where applicable, maintains instruments following manufacturer recommendations/troubleshooting procedures, keeps the work area clean and disinfected daily, records temperature reading daily for control devices, and participates in continuing education and attends required meetings. Submits required credential documents in a timely manner (license, certification, etc.). Maintains a friendly and safe environment for self and others, refraining from texting and speaking on a cell phone while on duty, attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with clinic leave policy, and refrains from informal communication with patients and others. Utilizes PPE and follows safety measures and guidelines in effect. Qualifications Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of PCMH model. Knowledge of SC policies and procedures. Knowledge of HIPAA Privacy and Security requirements. Knowledge of laboratory techniques and procedures. Knowledge of providing excellent Customer Service skills when interfacing with providers, staff and clients. Knowledge of computer software (Microsoft Word, Excel, etc.) programs. Skill in the operation and maintenance of laboratory testing instruments/equipment. Skill in using EMR system. Able to read, write and spell accurately. Able to lift objects greater than 20 lbs. Able to bend, stretch, stoop, push, pull and lift. Able to stand and walk for extended periods of time. Able to operate standard office equipment such as a computer, monitor, fax machine, copier and telephone. Able to record, prepare and communicate appropriate reports. Able to determine work priorities. Able to multi‑task; work cooperatively with others. Able to use supply ordering system. Ability to maintain an effective and professional working relationship with the public and co‑workers. Ability to work with people from diverse cultures. Ability to maintain a positive work environment. Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment. Ability to maintain a flexible work schedule. Ability to maintain client and office confidentiality. Ability to communicate in both English and Spanish. Ability to provide transportation to other work sites. Ability to use the time clock system. Ability to fully comply with the enhanced infection control requirements of the clinic. Minimum Qualifications / Certificates / Licenses / Registrations Required CMA/Phlebotomist with a minimum of one year work experience performing waived and moderately complex laboratory testing; phlebotomy experience of all age groups and experience in working with the public. Current BLS/CPR Certification required. MLT Certification preferred. This position requires an initial N95 mask fit testing and annual fit testing thereafter unless there is a significant change during the year that requires retesting prior to the annual fit testing. Special Instructions Due to the nature of SCF Services, it may be necessary for employees to work extended hours or other variations of the usual shift to ensure adequate care of patients and to maintain service to the community. This position requires travel. Employees must provide transportation. If an employee operates a personal motor vehicle in the performance of official duties, the employee must possess a current valid Texas driver’s license for the appropriate type of vehicle and Texas liability insurance. The position requires that the employee’s driving record be verified with law enforcement to ensure compliance with SC’s driving policy. The position requires rotating coverage for weekend clinics and basic communication in both English and Spanish. #J-18808-Ljbffr