Pathologists' Assistant

Portland, ME
Full Time
Clinical
Mid Level

Company Overview

Spectrum Healthcare Partners is Maine’s largest multi-specialty, physician-owned and directed professional organization and is comprised of over 200 physicians practicing in the areas of pathology, anesthesiology, orthopaedics, pain management, radiation oncology, radiology, and vascular & interventional services. Spectrum provides services at many of Maine’s hospitals throughout the state and in eastern New Hampshire.

We are seeking a full-time Pathologists’ Assistant to join our team of 25 pathologists and 9 pathologists’ assistants.

Salary range is $103,000 - $126,000, depending on experience. 

JOB SUMMARY

Under the supervision of a pathologist, this position assists with all aspects of surgical specimen processing, frozen section preparation, and post-mortem examination performed at various sites of service.  

This position is based in Portland, Maine at Maine Medical Center, Maine’s largest medical center; will need flexibility traveling to all of our sites of service based on need. 

HOURS:  Monday-Friday, 7am - 5pm, variable.

  • 25 Pathologists
  • 90,000 Surgical specimens annually
  • 40 Autopsies annually
  • No evening call

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the supervision of a pathologist, this position assists with all aspects of surgical specimen processing, frozen section preparation, and post-mortem examination performed at our sites of service as required.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  1. Surgical Pathology – Reviews clinical history and pertinent imaging and perform gross examination of designated surgical specimens with submission of diagnostic tissue needed for microscopic examination.  Performs gross photography of specimens when appropriate or when requested
  2. Frozen Sections - Receives, examines and records all pertinent information.  Processes frozen sections, touch preps, and gross margin statuses, with prompt delivery to a Pathologist. Utilize remote and digital workflows.
  3. Special Protocols - Completes required paperwork and triages tissue for specialized protocols, including, renal biopsies, muscle and peripheral nerve biopsies, pediatric tumor protocols, cytogenetic studies, radiographing breast specimens, and lymphoma workups.
  4. Autopsy Pathology - Under the supervision of a Pathologist, assists in the performance of Postmortem examinations after reviewing appropriate documentation and permits.  Functions include external examination, organ inspection and gross description, evisceration, dissection and submission of diagnostic tissue for microscopic examination, gross photography, data entry, and completion of the Preliminary Anatomic Diagnosis report (PAD). 
  5. Under supervision of a Pathologist, collects and enters appropriate data needed to ensure quality performance, including Autopsy QA reports.
  6. Research - Ensures proper handling of specimens and tissue procurement in preparation for future special studies.
  7. Participation in BioBank activities (tissue collection and slide review).
  8. Performs designated projects for special studies, education and development of departmental protocols. Possible assignments could include: 
    • Maintenance of the gross/microscopic photography database. 
    • Participation in teaching activities (students and residents) when appropriate.
    • Participation in digital initiatives.
    • Review and update policies and procedures, under the supervision of a Pathologist
    • Data collection and generation of reports with regard to the Her-2/neu QA program.
    • Collection of tissue controls for various studies (immunohistochemistry, special stains), as well as tissue needed for Histotechnologists’ examinations.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Maintains equipment and inventory, ensure cleanliness of work environment
  •  Initiation and participation in professional growth in Pathology and related fields, which may include attendance at various weekly Pathology conferences (as time permits)
  • Develops and completes specialized and individual projects (approved by the Physician Grossing Staff Director or Pathologists’ Assistants Supervisor), Clinical rotation and coverage at multiple sites - To be performed on a rotating basis distributed among full time and part time pathologists’ assistants that includes possible Saturday coverage for grossing of surgical specimens. 
  • Maintains competency by reading professional literature, participating in continuing education, and maintaining professional affiliations
  •  Attends required meetings and participates in various clinical committees, as required
  •  Ensures the development of strong positive relationships and collegiality among team members, pathologists, and facility staff
  • Demonstrates professionalism at all times
  • Displays cooperative behavior and interacts positively and effectively with others to promote a strong team environment
  • Performs other duties necessary to maintain the overall efficiency and continuity of the department
  • Be proactive in identifying, reporting and participating in the resolution of any potential or actual patient safety issues
  • Supports Company vision and values

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Master’s degree granted by an NAACLS-accredited pathologists’ assistant training program preferred
  • Pathologists’ Assistant (ASCP) certification, or eligible
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and as a member of a team
  • Well organized with meticulous attention to detail
  • Proficient computer skills to include Epic Beaker, Microsoft Office, Dragon Medical One
  • Excellent interpersonal skills with strong relationship-building skills,
  • Skills in developing and maintaining department quality assurance
  • Dedicated to the highest quality patient care
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality

PHYSICAL DEMANDS / WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • Continuous exposure to infectious materials and/or toxic and hazardous chemicals with risks minimized by the use of universal precautions and personal protective devices
  • May be required to stand or sit for long periods of time
  • Manual dexterity and visual acuity when handling specimens and utilizing instrumentation
  • Operation of various business-related equipment; photocopying, computer, telephone, filing
  • Travel to various sites of clinical service may be required

BENEFITS

  • Health Insurance (80% company paid)
  • Health Savings Account (Company Match: $3,000 family plan / $1625 individual plan)
  • Dental & Vision Insurance Plans
  • 401(k) Match and Profit-Sharing Plan
  • Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance (company paid)
  • Long-term Disability Insurance (company paid)
  • Short-term Disability Insurance (company paid)
  • Generous paid time off
  • Voluntary, Employee-Paid Benefits
  • Medical Reimbursement Plan
  • Dependent Care Plan
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