Covenant Health

Medical Office Lab Assistant, Medical Oncology Lab

PRN/OCC Variable hours and Shifts 

The healthcare professionals at Thompson Oncology Group are leaders in cancer care. Our physicians have access to proven drug-based treatments and the latest clinical trial medicines to assure each patient receives the most effective treatment. Locations include Knoxville, Maryville, Morristown, Oak Ridge, Sevierville, Harriman, and Lenoir City. For more information visit https://www.thompsoncancer.com/ .

Position Summary: The Medical Office Laboratory Assistant performs the pre-analytical and preparatory portion of the testing process and routine clinical lab tests for use in diagnosis and treatment of patients by physicians and advance practitioners. The individual will perform only those processes that s/he has been trained and found competent in performing.

If you have any questions please contact Recruiter: Kimberlin Woods || 865-374-5403 || kwoods8@covhlth.com

• Performs preparatory functions necessary to complete waived and moderate complexity tests that the individual has been trained in. Functions include, but are not limited to:
  • centrifuging, pouring off specimens, preparing specimens for testing, and archiving specimens
  • loading primary bar-coded specimens on an analyzer
  • preparation of 24 hour urine containers with preservatives
• Performs Quality Control (QC) for instrumentation daily to ensure all systems are in proper working order to test patient samples. Assess (QC) failures for necessary corrective action.
• Documents all corrective actions taken when the test process deviates from the Laboratory’s established performance specifications. Does not submit patient specimens for testing until all corrective action has been taken.
• Identifies problems that may adversely affect a test result and either corrects or notifies a licensed Laboratory employee to assist.
• Demonstrates knowledge to evaluate patient results to make decisions on validity of test results and makes decisions if validation testing is needed- per laboratory policies and procedures.
• Utilizes the LIS in patient accessioning; monitors incomplete and collection lists.
• Utilizes EMR to manage patient schedules, test orders and results.
• Operates, maintains and troubleshoots applicable Laboratory equipment, e.g. centrifuges, temperature and humidity monitors as trained to use.
• Participates as directed in department meetings and is accountable for communicated information.

• Plans work to insure maximum productivity with minimum amount of ‘carry over’ work, while keeping overtime to a minimum. Responsible for communicating to other appropriate staff needed information about patient samples or equipment performance.
• Properly collects venous blood samples following organizations collection procedures and proper use of two patient identifiers. Properly uses Blood Bank armband and specimen labelling. Accurately labels all specimens.
• Maintains and disinfects work area.
• Processes and distributes specimens to reference testing labs.
• Communicates with reference labs regarding test orders, required specimen types, and other quality metrics.
• Handles biohazard wastes according to policy.
• Assists in the orientation and training of new and existing employees.
• Responsible for care, maintenance, trouble-shooting and notification of the manager when equipment is in need of repair or replacement (i.e. thermometers centrifuges, printers, fax/copy machines, etc.).
• Responsible for checking and follow-up of incomplete reference Lab reports.
• Responsible for maintaining proper inventory of supplies by monitoring and ordering as needed.
• Local travel may be required.
• Follows policies, procedures, and safety standards. Completes required education assignments annually. Works toward achieving goals and objectives, and participates in quality improvement initiatives as requested.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Education: None specified; will accept any combination of formal education and/or prior work experience sufficient to demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skill and ability needed to perform the essential tasks of the job, typically such as would be equivalent to a high school diploma or GED.  Preference may be given to individuals possessing a HS diploma or GED.

Minimum Experience: Basic computer skills, medical terminology, registration and phlebotomy skills or equivalent combination of clinical/clerical skills. High School Diploma or GED and phlebotomy or laboratory experience required.

Licensure Requirement: Employee must have a valid Tennessee driver’s license Class D and state mandated minimum insurance coverage. Driving record must meet Covenant Health minimum standards at the date of hire and throughout employment tenure.