Pathologist Assistant

Job Description

Job Description

Position Overview: This role involves the gross dictation and examination of tissue samples, working autonomously under the supervision of a Pathologist.

Reporting Structure: Directly reports to the Lab Central/AP Manager.

Supervisory Responsibilities: This position does not include any supervisory duties.

Core Responsibilities: The essential functions encompass the key tasks and duties necessary to fulfill the objectives of this role. These functions are vital for effective job performance and are the primary responsibilities for which the individual is accountable. Some tasks may be delegated with appropriate oversight.

• Evaluates Surgical Pathology requests to ensure sufficient history is provided and gathers additional information as needed.
• Conducts surgical dissections and dictations as required, ensuring accurate tissue collection and data management for specialized studies.
• Selects tissues and guarantees proper fixation and transportation of specimens for specialized analyses (e.g., flow cytometry).
• Prepares tissues for frozen section microscopy and intraoperative assessments.
• Takes photographs of specimens as instructed by the Pathologist.
• Offers guidance and support for inquiries or issues raised by Prep Techs, Histotechs, or Cytotechs regarding specimen acceptability, unusual results, and instrument or method challenges.
• Reviews procedural manuals and stays updated on any procedural modifications.
• Completes tasks consistently within designated timeframes.
• Demonstrates proficiency in loading and operating tissue processors.
• Maintains confidentiality regarding patient information.
• Adheres to all laboratory safety protocols and follows procedures outlined in the manuals.
• Assists in the development and upkeep of anatomic pathology procedures.
• Encourages a positive workplace atmosphere that fosters open communication and idea sharing among colleagues and departments.
• Exhibits knowledge of surgical and cytology specimen collection and fixation standards, rejecting specimens when necessary.
• Demonstrates the capability to train students and new staff as assigned.
• Contributes insights to pathology leadership and aids in quality improvement initiatives related to surgical pathology.
• Familiarizes with and adheres to the Corporate Compliance Program and all organizational policies.
• Follows established protocols for histology quality control, CAP, JCAHO, and other regulatory bodies, reporting any discrepancies to the Histology Technical Specialist.
• Troubleshoots equipment, reagents, or procedural techniques when issues arise, notifying the Histology Technical Specialist if unable to resolve the problem.
• Complies with laboratory and hospital policies regarding universal precautions and safety measures. (Universal precautions will be observed when handling blood and/or body fluids to minimize exposure to infectious diseases. Safety protocols will be followed when using chemicals.)
• Participates in all mandatory safety training sessions and can articulate responsibilities related to general safety, departmental safety, and specific job-related hazards.
• Adheres to hospital exposure control plans regarding bloodborne and airborne pathogens.
• Demonstrates respect and consideration for the dignity of all patients, families, visitors, and coworkers to maintain a professional and courteous environment.
• Supports the organization's mission, policies, and procedures by attending and participating in committee meetings, if applicable.
• Punctually reports to work as scheduled.
• Keeps the work area organized, cleans the bench, restocks supplies, and informs the Histology Technical Specialist of low inventory.
• Performs tasks of equal skill and responsibility as directed, and may also undertake less complex tasks when departmental workload necessitates.
• Other responsibilities as assigned.

Education and Certification:

• Bachelor's degree.
• Completion of a NAACLS accredited Pathologists' Assistant program within the last five years.
• ASCP or equivalent certification as a Pathologist Assistant
• OR
• Must comply with CLIA regulations for grandfathered individuals.

Experience Requirements:

• Preferred: Two years of experience as a Pathologist Assistant.
• Pathologist Assistant students nearing the completion of their training program are encouraged to apply.
• Must engage in ongoing education to maintain certification/licensure and enhance foundational knowledge.

Physical Requirements: (Note: Reasonable accommodations may be provided for individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.)

• Light lifting up to 50 pounds, with general movements including bending, squatting, reaching, carrying, pushing, and pulling.
• Manual dexterity: reaching, grasping, and handling.
• Ability to communicate clearly.
• Near visual acuity, with the ability to distinguish colors, depth perception, and perform reading/close-up tasks.
• May involve contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials.
• Hazards include handling biological materials and exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

This job description serves as a general overview of the position and is not intended to be exhaustive.