Pathology Support Specialist, Full-Time Days

At Northwestern Medicine, every patient interaction makes a difference in cultivating a positive workplace. This patient-first approach is what sets us apart as a leader in the healthcare industry. As an integral part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to join our quest for better healthcare, no matter where you work within the Northwestern Medicine system. At Northwestern Medicine, we pride ourselves on providing competitive benefits: from tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to 401(k) matching and lifecycle benefits, we take care of our employees. Ready to join our quest for better?

The Pathology Support Specialist reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards. 

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Supports the medical directors, pathologists, physicians and other laboratory personnel as required, by performing an array of clerical and clinical support functions for the pathology laboratory. 

• Coordinates the retrieval of data/information, recording data/information in charts, file or databases 

• Maintains the integrity of the pathology report, slide and block archive. 

• Maintains appropriate and accurate documentation ensuring that diagnostic materials are available for review by physicians and other healthcare professionals in a timely manner and are retained for the appropriate timeframe per current regulatory guidelines. 

• Ensures files and records are accurate and held confidential, also, acting as a runner, delivering materials to various hospital departments. 

• Maintains report (hard copy and/or digital), slide, and block archive. 

• Pulls slides and blocks as requested and return to storage 

• Coordinates requests and material transfers with the off-site storage facility. 

• Handles requests for external and internal consultations following established procedures 

• Handles requests for referred laboratory testing on blocks and/or slides (i.e. FISH testing, quantitative metal analysis, molecular testing, etc.). 

• Works with laboratory management to identify materials qualifying for disposal per the current regulatory retention guidelines. Discards materials and documents discard. 

• Participates in Quality Management activities related to the surgical pathology archive. 

• Maintains file room supplies. Promptly notifies senior staff of supply shortages or delivery problems. 

• Maintains a clean, safe, and effective work environment to ensure efficient workflow and compliance with all regulatory requirements. Answers routine inquiries related to the surgical pathology archive. 

• Participates in Safety and Infection Control activities. 

• May assist in training other staff in area of expertise and may assist in specific process improvement projects 

Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent

• Computer experience with keyboard proficiency; strong knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel applications.

Preferred:

• Associate in Science degree; prior work experience in laboratory support or health related experience

Northwestern Medicine is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.

If we offer you a job, we will perform a background check that includes a review of any criminal convictions. A conviction does not disqualify you from employment at Northwestern Medicine. We consider this on a case-by-case basis and follow all state and federal guidelines.