The Histology Technician Specialist performs all repetitive tests that necessitate knowledge of histological technique and related instruments at a subject matter expert level. Performs cyto prep as needed. Exhibits the ability to recognize factors that directly affect procedures and results at an advanced level. Uses and monitors quality control programs and performs simple instrument maintenance. Attends and assists with direct patient care procedures as needed. Takes an active role in problem solving for section. Serves as a role model and preceptor for staff. Leads quality control initiatives for section. Demonstrates self-motivation in performing job duties and following procedures.

PATIENT AGE GROUP(S) AND POPULATION(S) SERVED
Refer to departmental "Scope of Service" and "Provision of Care" plans, as applicable, for description of primary age groups and populations served by this job for the respective HM entity.

HOUSTON METHODIST EXPERIENCE EXPECTATIONS

• Provide personalized care and service by consistently demonstrating our I CARE values:
  • INTEGRITY: We are honest and ethical in all we say and do.
  • COMPASSION: We embrace the whole person including emotional, ethical, physical, and spiritual needs.
  • ACCOUNTABILITY: We hold ourselves accountable for all our actions.
  • RESPECT: We treat every individual as a person of worth, dignity, and value.
  • EXCELLENCE: We strive to be the best at what we do and a model for others to emulate.

• Practices the Caring and Serving Model

• Delivers personalized service using HM Service Standards

• Provides for exceptional patient/customer experiences by following our Standards of Practice of always using Positive Language (AIDET, Managing Up, Key Words)

• Intentionally collaborates with other healthcare professionals involved in patients/customers or employees' experiential journeys to ensure strong communication, ease of access to information, and a seamless experience

• Involves patients (customers) in shift/handoff reports by enabling their participation in their plan of care as applicable to the given job

• Actively supports the organization's vision, fulfills the mission and abides by the I CARE values

PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Promotes a positive work environment and contributes to a dynamic, team focused work unit that actively helps one another to achieve optimal department results. Collaborates with all members of the patient care team by actively communicating and reporting pertinent patient care information and data in a comprehensive manner.

• Orients, guides and mentors team members and students, to help build confidence and competency in skills, knowledge and abilities. Administers and grades staff competency assessments.

SERVICE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Performs all routine and complex laboratory procedures in the assigned work area.

• Recognizes and ensures critical values (and/or reportable results) with appropriate LIS documentation.

• Sets pace for workload and troubleshoots workflow issues. Utilizes all available work time by assisting others and performing additional tasks.

QUALITY/SAFETY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Processes specimens and demonstrates knowledge of specimen requirements and laboratory rejection policies.

• Actively participates in and achieves an acceptable level of performance on proficiency and competency testing samples.

• Compiles and reviews monthly quality control data, to include actions for variances identified, and provides proper documentation. Oversees section compliance by reviewing and responding to CAP Accreditation Checklists questions/findings.

• Develops plan, leads implementation, and performs data analysis of validations. Coordinates instrument maintenance and repairs.

• Independently handles resolution of complex problems and issues for section.

• Maintains a safe environment within the Laboratory, following all policies and procedures for safety, hazardous materials, security, emergency preparedness and HIPAA.

FINANCE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Adjusts work schedule to accommodate departmental/organizational needs. Appropriately utilizes the time recording system.

• Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Monitors stock levels and ensures supply levels are adequate; may participate in ordering supplies.

GROWTH/INNOVATION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development.

• Actively participates in the implementation of special initiatives that will enhance quality and/or efficiency. Generates and communicates new ideas and suggestions that will improve quality or service.

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; the employee will also perform other reasonably related business/job duties as assigned. Houston Methodist reserves the right to revise job duties and responsibilities as the need arises.

EDUCATION

• Associate degree in related field if certified after December 31, 2004

WORK EXPERIENCE

• 3 years experience as a Histology Technician

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS - REQUIRED

• HT(ASCP) - Histotechnician (ASCP) OR
• HTL(ASCP) - Histotechnologist (ASCP)

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going evaluations consisting of one or more of the following: skills, competency assessments and/or performance reviews

• Exhibits strong interpersonal, teamwork and leadership skills with all levels of the healthcare team and assures delivery of excellent customer service to all patients, visitors, physicians and co-workers

• Adapts to multiple ongoing priorities including organizing heavy work flow with minimal supervision

• Strong attention to detail and ability to achieve and maintain accuracy

• Ability to work independently and execute above average technical skills

• Demonstrates sound judgment and discretion to recognize problems ranging from simple to complex, identify causes and take corrective action

• Possesses basic computer knowledge; operates multiple computer systems to include, Hospital / Laboratory Information Systems and Office software to maintain patient and testing records and other related documents

• Sufficient proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing the English language necessary to perform the essential functions of this job, especially with regard to activities impacting patient or employee safety or security

• Ability to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, family members and co-workers in a manner consistent with a customer service focus and application of positive language principles

SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

WORK ATTIRE

• Uniform No
• Scrubs No
• Business professional No
• Other (department approved) No

ON-CALL*
*Note that employees may be required to be on-call during emergencies (ie. DIsaster, Severe Weather Events, etc) regardless of selection below.

• On Call*

TRAVEL**
**Travel specifications may vary by department**

• May require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area
• May require travel outside Houston Metropolitan area

Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital, located 35 miles east of Houston, is the area's only full-service hospital offering specialized medical care for patients at every stage in life. This 230-licensed bed hospital with 15 operating rooms and over 1,700 employees, brings Medical Center excellence and quality care close to East Harris and surrounding counties.