Laboratory Assistant / Phlebotomist

Overview:

JOB TITLE:              Laboratory Assistant /

 

DEPARTMENT:       Medical

 

REPORTS TO:         Senior Operations Manager

 

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The phlebotomist technician position is responsible for performing venipuncture and other specimen collection procedures to obtain samples for laboratory testing and diagnostic purposes.

Phlebotomist must ensure proper patient identification, specimen collection, labeling, processing and handling to maintain specimen integrity and patient safety. Phlebotomists will interact with patient and medical providers to deliver high-quality care and support by following laboratory procedures.

Responsibilities:

DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Ensures that the critical safety process is required to properly identify every patient through two independent patient identifiers “before” drawing blood or collecting specimens. For example:
   1. Asking the patient to state their full name and date of birth (D.O.B.), rather than just reading out their name & D.O.B.
   2. Verifying that the patient’s stated (verbally) information perfectly matches the lab requisition order, the E.H.R. and the specimen tube labels.
2. Assesses patient needs, reviewing patient history, printing the correct provider Lab Requisition order, and determining the reason(s) for drawing blood.
3. Verifies and collects proper samples required for specific tests and accurately labels specimens.
4. Performs venipuncture, capillary punctures, and other specimen collection procedures according to his/her Phlebotomist training/certification and established protocols.
5. Labels and handles specimens according to established protocols and laboratory standards- following own safety first practices.
6. Analyzes blood specimens using the correct testing equipment.
7. Prepares specimens for transportation/pick-up, including placing specimens in the correct laboratory collection box and ensuring to maintain specimens at the required temperature.
8. Maintains accurate records of all specimens collected and ensures timely data entry in patients Electronic Health Record (E.H.R.).
9. Collects and inputs accurate data for billing reimbursement purposes.
10. Complies with all HIPAA regulations and maintains strict confidentiality of all patients protected health information (PHI).
11. Complies with all quality control standards and equipment maintenance and cleans, maintains and calibrates all laboratory equipment in strict accordance with manufacturer instructions. maintains all laboratory equipment clean and calibrated according to manufacturer guidelines.

 

13. Maintains the laboratory clean, organized, and well-stocked.
14. Keeps open communication with Laboratories (Quest, LabCorp, Foundation Lab, etc.) to ensure specimen pick-ups are scheduled timely.
15. Serves as a liaison between patients, the laboratory, and FHCCGLA to resolve billing inquiries and discrepancies.
16. Coordinates with vendors and laboratory representatives regarding supply orders and deliveries.
17. Maintains cost-effective inventory practices and reports supply needs to immediate supervisor.

 

19. Assist with drawing blood for OB AFP testing
20. Assists with training and mentoring new phlebotomy staff when assigned.
21. Collaborates with healthcare providers and other FHCCGLA staff to ensure efficient workflow and quality patient care
22. Ensures to check on a monthly basis for any expired items and keep a log for audit purposes.
23. Ensures proper utilization of equipment and supplies to avoid waste or damage.
24. Continuously works toward establishing a good rapport and cooperative working relationship with all FHCCGLA providers & co-workers.
25. Inspires confidence from patients and visitors by always performing and communicating in a professional manner
26. Ability to handle unexpected and stressful situations (e.g., walk-ins, surges, etc.) and deals with each patient professionally demonstrating a friendly demeanor.
27. Adheres to all OSHA, CLIA, and infection control standards.
28. Seeks assistance from a medical provider as needed for emergencies or other support as necessary (e.g., difficult blood draw, etc.).
29. Completes / Attends the following meetings/trainings:
    1. Mandatory Quarterly Staff Trainings (Jan., Apri., Jul., & Oct.) via Paylocity.
    2. Any other pertinent meeting requested by leadership (advance notice will be provided when feasible).
30. All other duties as assigned (may be modified as business needs dictate).

 

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

1. High school diploma, required.
2. Certification with the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians, Inc. and/or the National Phlebotomy Association (NPA).
3. Current BLS Certification, required to be kept up to date.
4. Two years of phlebotomy experience, preferred.
5. FQHC experience, highly preferred.
6. Motivation to take the Initiative to ensure all tasks performed are completed thoroughly and accurately.
7. Computer knowledge (e.g., NextGen (E.H.R. & PMS), Microsoft Word & Excel)- preferred.
8. Strong communication skills, both verbal and written. Bilingual (English/Spanish) with the ability to speak/write fluently.
9. Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills.
10. Willingness to travel to and from FHCCGLA sites as well as attend off-site events, meetings, trainings. Requires access to an automobile and must possess a valid California Driver’s License and state mandated automobile insurance.
11. Commitment to FHCCGLA’s Mission & Vision (refer to the Employee Handbook).
12. Willingness to adapt to changes (e.g., schedules) with regards to the agency’s growth & expansion.

 

14. Ability to prioritize workload and work under pressure to meet tight, sensitive deadlines.
15. Motivated and committed to the provision of high-quality healthcare for indigent and underserved communities.
16. Commitment to the provision of high-quality health care services and the goals and mission of Family Health Care Centers of Greater Los Angeles, Inc.
17. Willingness and ability to adapt to changes and perform tasks in a changing work environment and agency’s growth & expansion.
18. Knowledge of legal requirements pertaining to drawing blood, handling specimen samples, and the use of relevant medical equipment.
19. Superb dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
20. Exceptional attention to detail to ensure patient safety and data integrity.

Qualifications:

ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Requires the ability to stand, walk, and lift laboratory shipment supplies (carry/lift a minimum of ten pounds).
2. Ability to work well with others in a professional and team-oriented environment.
3. Well-developed interpersonal skills, friendly personality with all with whom they interface and able to motivate staff by promoting teamwork within department.
4. Ability to relate to the public and staff regardless of ethnicity, religion and economic status.
5. Strong planning and organizational skills.
6. Problem analysis and critical thinking skills.
7. Excellent customer service skills.
8. Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
9. Knowledge of the following (but not limited to), preferred:

PPO’s                        HMO’s                     CPE

Medicare                        Family PACT                 CPSP       

Medi-Cal                          Fee-for-Service             

Managed Care Plans      Every Woman Counts

Min (For Export): 24.28 Max (For Export): 25.00