Pathology Specialist (Full-time, Day Shift)

Job Description

Centered in the heart of Boyle Heights, Adventist Health White Memorial is one of the area's leading healthcare providers since 1913. We are comprised of a 353-bed hospital, three medical office buildings, residency programs, comprehensive cancer care and a vast scope of services located in the Los Angeles area. In 2019, Adventist Health White Memorial was recognized with the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, the nation's highest presidential honor for performance excellence. We are proud to promote wellness in the community at the local farmers market and through our community resource center with services for seniors and Spanish-speakers. Los Angeles is known for its art, rich culture, numerous sports teams and world-renowned dining. There is something for everyone in this culturally diverse city.

Job Summary:

Provides assistance to the pathologist with all surgical specimens. Receives, accessions and setsup all surgical specimens. Performs gross examination of approved specimens and stains. Processes a variety of laboratory specimens, including the majority of pathological specimens such as the preparation of tissue for numerous pathological test, gross examination and dissection of anatomic pathology specimens and the performance of postmortem examinations.

Job Requirements:

Education and Work Experience:

• Bachelor's Degree: Required
• Two years' experience: Preferred
• American Association of Pathologists' Assistants (AAPA) minimum autopsy requirements: Required

Licenses/Certifications:

• Certified by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or equivalent: Required

Essential Functions:

• Assists with the daily operations including, but not limited to: histology, surgical pathology, cytopathology, transcription, review of daily logs, and monitoring pathology department charges. Works closely with the Pathologist to assure proper quality control with particular focus on all specimens and their complexities of compliance with CLIA guidelines. Enters billing charges into LIS and combines with final pathology reports to be forwarded to GPA.
• Supports the pathologist in performance of autopsies and provides a report on the deceased. Performs gross examinations and dictations on specimens received from surgical and non-surgical cases. Processes, cuts and stains frozen sections. Assists in histotechnologist preparation tissue and cytology specimens for diagnostic examination by pathologists. Performs high complexity testing. May be asked to assist in preparing bone marrow aspirate smears and clots.
• Conducts quality improvement, assurance activities and inspection preparation to meet Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) guidelines. Assists pathologist in data collection of Quality Assurance activities including CQI reports and monthly mortality report. Assists with preparation of slides for rapid on site evaluations (ROSE). Participates in laboratory accreditation and preparedness. Actively participate in implementing new or improved processes such as implementation of Digital Slide Scanner, validation of new antibody stains, validation of prognostic markers, or implementation of new LIS system. Participate in accurate CPT coding / coding audits.
• Maintains an orderly and clean work environment to include tissue waste disposal, rotating and dumping of stains and reagents. Ensures pathology department is organized, efficient, well stocked and tidy. Instructs staff, including non-laboratory personnel, in collection, preparation, and transport of laboratory specimens to ensure optimum specimen integrity and interpretation.
• Schedules the performance of autopsies, coordination with the pathologist, the diner, the attending physician and the mortuary. Reviews charts for appropriate authorization and to determine if coroner needs to be notified. Assists with intraoperative consultations. Trains laboratory clerks and/or laboratory assistants for backup coverage and for organizing and filing pathology. Serves as preceptor for PA students. May be asked to assist in coordination of Case conferences, tumor boards, or educational conferences.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Organizational Requirements:


Adventist Health is committed to the safety and wellbeing of our associates and patients. Therefore, we require that all associates receive all required vaccinations as a condition of employment and annually thereafter, where applicable. Medical and religious exemptions may apply.

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About Us

Adventist Health is a faith-based, nonprofit, integrated health system serving more than 100 communities on the West Coast and Hawaii with over 440 sites of care, including 27 acute care facilities. Founded on Adventist heritage and values, Adventist Health provides care in hospitals, clinics, home care, and hospice agencies in both rural and urban communities. Our compassionate and talented team of more than 38,000 includes employees, physicians, Medical Staff, and volunteers driven in pursuit of one mission: living God's love by inspiring health, wholeness and hope.