Summary

The Pathologists’ Assistant (PA) acts as a provider of anatomic pathology services and has specialized knowledge which includes describing, dissecting, and submitting samples of human surgical specimens for review and diagnosis by a Pathologist.  

Job Duties

• Works independently performing duties associated with preparation and examination of pathology specimens.
• Performs routine gross dissection of biopsies, large, complex/complicated specimens.  
• Assists the Laboratory Director with day-to-day operations, organization of and efficiency of workflow processes of the gross examination area.  
• Recommends solutions and improvements.  
• Works closely with the Medical Director and Laboratory Director to determine grossing priorities.
• Takes instruction from Pathologists regarding grossing technique and quality assessment.
• Adheres to laboratory standard operating procedures and policies for job-related responsibilities.
• Oversees maintenance of equipment, laboratory supplies, and work areas.   
• Assure correct accessioning of all specimens, dictation, selection, and submission of tissue sections for microscopic examination, preparation of tissue cassettes for automated processing, and photographing gross specimens as needed.
• Assists the Laboratory Director with development and/or monitoring of quality indicators for quality assurance.  
• Assists with presenting quality metrics at monthly meetings.
• Assists in quality metrics to improve the value of patient care.  
• Adheres to internal controls established for department.  
• Ensures compliance with all local, federal, CLIA and CAP regulations. 
• Coordinates, trains, orientates, and mentors new employees and trainees in new and established laboratory procedures. 
• Provides technical instructions, training, and guidance to pathologists’ assistants/grossing technicians, students, and lab assistants in techniques, instrumentation, and organization of work.  
• May serve as a key contact person for pathologist, management, grossing and histology staff to identify problem areas and recommend changes to workflow.  
• Reviews, revises, and updates policies and procedures in accordance with required regulatory and departmental standards.  
• Communicates pertinent information to medical directors, management, and staff members.  
• Communicates in a professional and courteous and effective manner.  

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduation from accredited Pathologist Assistant Program or Bachelor's degree in Biological or Allied Health Sciences.
• Six months of relevant experience if graduated from an accredited Pathology Assistant Program.
• With a Bachelor’s degree in Biological or Allied Health Sciences, two years of related experience.
• Certified as a Pathologist’s Assistant by the American Society for Clinical Pathology.
   

Preferred Qualifications

• Masters of Science in Pathologists’ Assistant.
• Certified by the American Society of Clinical Pathology as a Pathologists’ Assistant, PA (ASCP) or Doctorate of Medicine.