As a certified cytologist, you will perform activities as directed by the department supervisor. You will screen gynecologic and non-gynecologic slides to identify abnormal cells and infectious organisms and determine the degree of atypia or malignancy. You will collaborate with members of the laboratory team to ensure the needs of patients and customers are being met.
The Cytologist will screen ThinPrep gynecological slides and non-gynecological slides such as cytospins, ThinPrep smears, and cell blocks. They are responsible for documenting daily quality control and performing quality assurance within the department, which includes participating in proficiency testing. They will work closely with the pathologists to discuss diagnoses and/or quality issues with specimens. We are no longer performing FNA/ROSE procedures at this time.
SCOPE AND COMPLEXITY:
Valleywise Health’s cytology department receives, processes, and screens a wide variety of specimens collected throughout the health system. In this position you will perform cytology duties and support the department supervisor. As a hospital-based cytology department, you will interact with pathologists and other members of the clinical team. You will screen gynecologic and non-gynecologic slides, perform required rescreening, and assist with accessioning, processing and staining as required.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
1.
Perform daily activities as assigned and ensure that daily requirements are completed satisfactorily. Utilize critical thinking skills in conjunction with policies to perform duties. Assist with employee training and precepting students. Perform competency assessment as assigned by supervisor. Use board-certified knowledge to serve as key operator or special projects lead. 40%
2.
Communicate in an open and professional way to promote teamwork. Is a positive representative for the laboratory and delivers exceptional customer service. Keep supervisor apprised appropriately. 20%
3.
Contribute to a working environment that is courteous and respectful. 15%
4.
Utilize laboratory supplies and resources responsibly. Practice financial stewardship in all aspects. 10%
5.
Adhere to department policies and protocols and seek guidance from department leadership when needed. 10%
6.
Contribute to department activities to support laboratory initiatives. 5%
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be interpreted an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, and duties required of employees assigned to this job.
MARGINAL/ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS:
1.
Assists with other department functions as assigned.
REPORTING STRUCTURE:
Supervision Received:
This position reports to the anatomic pathology supervisor
Supervision Exercised:
None
Directly Reporting:
None
Indirectly Reporting:
None
CONTACTS:
Internal:
Will interact with other laboratory staff, laboratory leadership, other departmental leaders, clinical providers, and support staff
External:
May interact with patients, vendor representatives, regulatory agencies, and healthcare professionals at other healthcare institutions
JOB QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
· Must possess good interpersonal and communication skills both verbally and in writing.
· Requires the ability to effectively read, write, and speak in English including knowledge of basic grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
· Requires excellent time management and customer service skills.
· Must possess basic computer skills.
· Requires creative, analytical, and independent thinking.
· Must be approachable, open to feedback, and flexible to change.
· Must support and maintain policies and processes.
· Must exhibit a high degree of professionalism and enthusiasm.
· Must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to perform laboratory activities in the anatomic pathology department.
Education or equivalency:
Bachelor’s degree in cytotechnology from an accredited school or an equivalent combination of training, education, and experience in accordance with CLIA standards.
Since Valleywise Health first opened in 1877, we have continually reinvented ourselves to meet Maricopa County’s evolving medical needs. We have achieved many firsts – including the first medical residency program in Arizona, the state’s first Level I Trauma Center, Arizona’s first nationally verified burn center and our community’s first HIV/AIDS clinic.
You may know Valleywise Health as one of the nation’s best burn and trauma centers. But there’s another side. We’ve been a leader in behavioral health for over 50 years. We help people challenged by serious mental illness through three behavioral health centers and a network of mental health clinics.
We’re proud of our legacy of care and invite you help Valleywise Health serve our community, as we have for over 100 years!
