Communications Specialist I - Ambulance and Chair

UPMC; Washington (Washington County); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

UPMC Communications is seeking a Communications Specialist to support the STAT MedEvac system. You will process service requests, gather necessary information, and coordinate with transport teams to assign appropriate patient transport modes.

As part of the Communications Center, you will dispatch assets, maintain logs, protect patient confidentiality, and aid in training new staff. Expect daylight shifts with occasional 24/7 coverage as staffing requires.

Responsibilities

• Responds to requests by phone, radio or other appropriate communications methods.
• Coordinates communications between transport teams, faculty physicians, referring and receiving hospitals.
• Maintains confidentiality of patient information at all times.
• Documents and retrieves information/data on computer/network system in a timely manner.

Job description

Schedule:

• Primarily daylight shifts
• 24/7 coverage as needed for staffing

Purpose

The Communications Specialist functions as a direct facilitator in processing and executing service requests for the STAT MedEvac system. Responsibilities include obtaining the appropriate information for service requests and providing any additional assistance necessary to meet the system's needs. The Communications Specialist functions as a part of the Communications Center and shares responsibility for working cooperatively with all team members. The Communications Specialist dispatches and communicates with all STAT MedEvac assets, maintains logs and records, and performs other duties as assigned. Supports and upholds the mission, goals, and objectives, of the STAT MedEvac system at all times.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrates skills, competencies, and judgment necessary to respond to requests by phone, radio or other appropriate communications methods. Demonstrates competency in assigning requests for service to the most appropriate patient transport mode (i.e., helicopter, fixed wing or ambulance).Coordinate communications between transport teams, faculty physicians, referring and receiving hospitals. Ensures confidentiality of patient information at all times. Function as a resource for all new team members and actively participates in the development and training of new staff. Document and retrieve information / data on computer/network system including interventions, and other pertinent patient care information in a timely manner.
• Collects and promptly processes request information including demographics, medical necessity, and other necessary information. Participates constructively in the quality improvement program when requested. Demonstrate competency in resident dispatch response procedure and documentation. Demonstrate competency in successful use of attending physician. Adheres to uniform policy and maintains a professional and neat appearance while working and representing Ambulance and Chair. Performs all assigned duties, including daily, weekly, monthly, or other duties assigned by the Transport Coordinator, Communications Manager, or Director of Communications including (but not limited to): (Participating in shift report from off going crew, Answering and responding to inquiries in a timely and efficient manner, Reviewing Ambulance and Chair procedures and policies, maintaining a clean workspace environment). Responds promptly and efficiently to requests for service (air and ground).
• Seek guidance from the Transport Coordinator as needed for unusual operational circumstances or guidance regarding policy decisions. Demonstrates proficiency of operation in all methods of communications including telephone, radio and e-mail. Documents unusual operational matters in the flight record and /or special report system as warranted. Participates in education and training sessions in a positive and constructive manner. Completes all official documentation in a timely manner such as payroll, expense reports, orientation forms, etc. Adheres to rules for scheduling, including schedule requests, minimum time, and availability. Contributes to safety through landing zone verification, following proper communication procedures and flight following. Utilizes appropriate safety channels to report safety concerns, and uses tools available to enhance a safe work environment.
• Reflects a positive attitude to the customer in a high stress environment at all times, with a clear understanding of who the customer is. Demonstrates the ability to establish a rapport with customers; including the ability to create and sustain a positive relationship; regardless of circumstances or environment. Reports for work well rested, and fit for duty. Adheres to the drug and alcohol policy at all times. Reports injuries and completes the appropriate documentation, no matter how minor, to a supervisor in a timely manner.