Histology Assistant

MercyOne; Mason City (IA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center in Mason City, IA seeks a full-time Histology Support Aide to accession surgical specimens, label cassettes, input data in the pathology system, and assist with the gross room.

Responsibilities include inventory control, filing slides, handling reference lab specimens, answering phones, and supporting pathologists during frozen sections.

Requirements: high school diploma or equivalent; medical terminology preferred; six months in a laboratory setting preferred.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Medical terminology knowledge is preferred and can be obtained within 6 months.
• Six months experience in a laboratory setting is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Accession surgical pathology specimens and biopsies in the information system.
• Label cassettes with correct colors and numbers; attach case numbers.
• Unpack and register reference lab specimens; differentiate billing types.
• Link patient records to pathology specimens in the system.
• Assist with inventory control and cost containment for supplies.
• Support pathologists during frozen sections and slide staining.
• Answer phones and direct inquiries to appropriate lab sections.
• Follow MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center policies and safety procedures.

Skills

Medical terminology

Laboratory experience

Problem solving

Communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Medical assistant diploma

Job description

Employment Type:Full timeShift:Day ShiftDescription:

Supports the histology gross room and histology department in accessioning surgical specimens and biopsies, registration of reference lab histology specimens, inventory control, technical and clerical support.

• Accessions surgical pathology specimens and biopsies in the Anatomic Pathology Information System. In doing so, chooses appropriate part type based on specimen description and interprets physician’s hand written diagnosis.

• Selects and labels correct color and number of cassette for specimen type. Labels with appropriate case number.

• Enters extra billing charge if additional part is in the same container as another part type.

• Unpacks reference lab specimens and registers them in the hospital registration system with accuracy, differentiating billing scenarios for client and insurance types.

• Links patient medical record numbers as related to pathology specimen accessions and past patient history on the pathology information system.

• Compiles night batches for histology

• Ability to problem solve a variety of situations related to histology accessioning including but not limited to part types, encounter issues, date or name discrepancies.

• Files histology and cytology slides

• Assists with inventory control and cost containment as related to supplies in histology, the gross room, and morgue.

• Operates computer equipment and software programs relative to performance of essential job functions and other laboratory related requirements.

• Assists pathologist in frozen sections, including staining of slides, and performs Histology support tasks as assigned.

• Answers phone calls and, when indicated, transfers phone calls to the appropriate section of the laboratory.

• Communicates with and performs duties following MercyOne - North Iowa Medical Center Guiding Behaviors.

• Supports and abides by all medical center, departmental, and safety policies and procedures. Proactively identifies safety concerns surrounding the work environment.

• Acts in a professional manner reflecting the mission, philosophy and values of MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center.

• Performs other responsibilities as requested by Pathologist, Path Assistant, Regional Laboratory Manager, Histology Lead Tech, Clinical Lab Director

Schedule: Full Time Days

General Requirements

• A minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent is required.

• Medical assistant diploma is preferred. Educational transcript is required for verification.

• Medical terminology or must be willing to obtain within 6 months from hire.

• Six months experience in a laboratory setting preferred

Our Commitment

Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.