POSITION DESCRIPTION:

Prepares histologic slides from tissue sections for microscopic examination and diagnosis.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. Prepares tissue specimens for routine and special procedures that aid in the confirmation of patient diagnosis; gross, process, embed, cut and stain surgical, biopsy and anatomical tissues for light and fluorescent microscopic slide review.
2. Performs complex histologic procedures and analyzes and corrects problems using scientific principles; performs, records and analyzes data in order to make judgments.
3. Operates computerized laboratory equipment to fix, dehydrate and infiltrate with wax, tissue specimens; Maintains instruments utilizing established protocols.
4. Prepares and examines slides under microscope to ensure tissue preparation meets laboratory requirements and to detect deviations from norm and report abnormalities; uses intuition and experience to complement data.
5. Participates in meetings.
6. Performs other projects and duties as assigned and works within the scope of position.

ORGANIZATIONAL EXPECTATIONS:

1. Creates a positive, professional, service-oriented work environment for staff, patients and family members by supporting the mission and values of both IHA and Trinity Health.
2. Must be able to work effectively as a member of the patient care team.
3. Successfully completes IHA’s “The Customer” training and adheres to IHA’s standard of promptly providing a high level of service and respect to internal or external customers.
4. Maintains knowledge of and complies with IHA standards, policies and procedures.
5. Maintains complete knowledge of office services and in the use of all relevant office equipment, computer and manual systems.
6. Maintains strict patient and employee confidentiality in compliance with IHA and HIPAA guidelines
7. Serves as a role model, by demonstrating exceptional ability and willingness to take on new and additional responsibilities. Embraces new ideas and respects cultural differences.
8. Uses resources efficiently.
9. Responsible for ongoing professional development – maintains appropriate licensure/certification and continuing education credentials, participates in available learning opportunities.

MEASURED BY:

Performance that meets or exceeds IHA CARES Values expectation as outlined in IHA Performance Review document, relative to position.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION: High school graduate, with college coursework comparable to an Associate’s and/or Bachelor’s degree; Completion of an accredited histology program.

CREDENTIALS/LICENSURE: Certification through the American Society for Clinical Pathology or equivalent experience as a histology technician.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE: One year of experience, preferred.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS (ABILITIES & SKILLS):

1. Knowledge of histotechnology procedures and organizational policies related to position responsibilities.
2. Proficient/knowledgeable in medical terminology.
3. Ability to perform mathematical calculations needed during the course of performing essential job duties.
4. Proficient in operating a standard desktop and Windows-based computer system, including but not limited to, electronic medical records, email, e-learning, intranet, Microsoft Word and Excel, and computer navigation. Ability to use other software as required while performing the essential functions of the job.
5. Excellent communication skills in both written and verbal forms, including proper phone etiquette. Demonstrates group presentation skills, either in-person or virtually.
6. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment; displays courteous and friendly demeanor.
7. Ability to work effectively with various levels of organizational members and diverse populations including IHA staff, providers, patients, family members, hospital staff, non-IHA providers and staff.
8. Ability to cross-train in other areas of practice in order to achieve smooth flow of all operations.
9. Good organizational and time management skills to effectively juggle multiple priorities and time constraints.
10. Ability to exercise sound judgement and problem-solving skills.
11. Ability to handle patient and organizational information in a confidential manner.
12. Knowledge of the compliance aspects of clinical care and patient privacy and best practices in medical office operations.
13. Successful completion of IHA competency-based program within introductory and training period.

MINIMUM PHYSICAL EXPECTATIONS:

1. Physical activity that often requires keyboarding, phone work and charting.
2. Physical activity that often requires extensive time working on a computer.
3. Physical activity that often requires ability to use hands to finger, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms.
4. Physical activity that often requires walking, sitting, standing, bending, stooping, reaching, climbing, kneeling and/or twisting.
5. Physical activity that often requires lifting, pushing and/or pulling up to 50 lbs.
6. Specific vision abilities required include close vision, depth perception, peripheral vision and the ability to adjust and focus.
7. Manual dexterity sufficient to operate a keyboard, photocopier, telephone, calculator and other office equipment.
8. Must hear and speak well enough to conduct business over the telephone or face to face for long periods of time in English.

MINIMUM ENVIRONMENTAL EXPECTATIONS:

This job operates in a medical facility and requires regular walking to various locations around the hospital/clinic. Employees will be working where there is patient care equipment. Hazardous materials, including bloodborne pathogens and bodily fluids are also present. Exposure to sharps, x-rays, patients' conditions and some unpleasant sights, smells and contagious diseases is possible. This position requires significant interaction with people (many of whom are scared, hurt and/or ill) which can be stressful and result in competing priorities.