Lab Quality Assurance Specialist

About the role

The Laboratory Quality Assurance Specialist develops, maintains, and monitors the quality management system for Laboratory Services. Responsibilities include evaluating/implementing patient safety initiatives, regulatory and accreditation compliance, risk management, and performance improvement. Works with other ancillary and patient care departments to develop plans and policies for improved quality outcomes throughout all phases of testing.

Responsibilities

• Manages external proficiency program
• Coordinates/Prepares reports for the department and performs activities that promote compliance within the laboratory and point of care testing sites
• Facilitates an annual assessment of the Quality Assurance program for the laboratory
• Develops, implements, and initiates review of laboratory policy and procedures
• Monitors Laboratory Services policies and procedures for review and sign-off of all policies
• Coordinates activities associated with the preparation for laboratory and hospital surveys for everyday readiness
• Facilitates follow-up for any deficiencies cited
• Prepares presentations for committee meetings and educational programs
• Facilitates discussions with staff and leaders in developing strategy and action plans for programs/projects
• Coordinates the validation plan before the implementation of new testing and instrumentation

Requirements

• Bachelor degree in related field
• Four years of experience in a clinical setting to include two years of experience as a Medical Laboratory Scientist/Medical Technologist or equivalent role
• Must have one of the following required certifications:
  • Certified as a Medical Technologist, Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Medical Laboratory Scientist, or categorical certification by Board of Certification (ASCP)
  • Certified as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist by National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA)
  • Certified as a Medical Technologist or Medical Laboratory Scientist by American Medical Technologists (AMT)

Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job
• Knowledge of the functional discipline to be coordinated
• Knowledge of departmental processes and procedures
• Skill in planning, organizing and delegating functional activities
• Skill in coaching and developing the functional skills of others
• Exhibits strong interpersonal and team player skills with all levels of the healthcare team
• Adapts to multiple ongoing priorities including organizing heavy work flow with minimal supervision
• Strong attention to detail and ability to achieve and maintain accuracy
• Demonstrates independent judgment and discretion to recognize problems, identify causes and take corrective action
• Possesses basic computer knowledge; operates multiple computer systems
• Demonstrates the ability to work independently with little or no direct supervision
• Sufficient proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing the English language necessary to perform the essential functions of this job