Manager, Laboratory Quality & Accreditation Program

The Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia; Charlottesville, Virginia, Evanston Township (VA, MN, IL); On-site; USD 76,000 - 123,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player seeks a dedicated Quality Manager to oversee laboratory quality and accreditation programs. This role involves ensuring compliance with various regulatory standards while leading quality improvement initiatives. The successful candidate will provide expertise and training to laboratory staff, facilitate multidisciplinary collaboration, and maintain readiness for accreditation surveys. With a commitment to excellence and continuous improvement, this position offers a unique opportunity to impact laboratory operations positively. Join a diverse team that values different perspectives and experiences, contributing to the overall mission of healthcare excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Medical Laboratory Technology or related field required.
• 3 years of regulatory experience in a complex health environment.

Responsibilities

• Manage laboratory quality and accreditation programs ensuring compliance.
• Lead quality improvement initiatives and oversee safety management.

Skills

Regulatory Compliance

Quality Improvement

Safety Management

Data Interpretation

Process Improvement

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Medical Laboratory Technology

Associate Degree in Medical Laboratory Technology

Tools

Quality Management Systems

Regulatory Standards

Job description

Provide management and oversight of all activities related to the laboratory quality and accreditation programs, which include performance improvement, regulatory compliance, safety, and other educational activities for UVA Medical Laboratories. Lead quality improvement initiatives in support of laboratory activities. Ensure regulatory compliance with CAP, FDA, TJC, CMS, FACT, NACCLS, etc.

Responsibilities

1. Plan and direct the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of a comprehensive quality assessment, safety, and performance improvement program for UVA Medical Labs.
2. Ensure effective communication and education of quality outcomes management, safety, and regulatory issues to UVA Medical Laboratory managers and team members.
3. Ensure compliance with applicable regulations, standards, and guidelines related to Laboratory Services.
4. Provide expertise, support, training, and education to lab managers and staff in process and quality improvement activities, including investigations, root cause analysis, A3s, LEAN process improvement methods, and corrective actions.
5. Implement a systematic approach to identifying, designing, prioritizing, implementing, measuring, and monitoring quality and operational processes.
6. Facilitate multidisciplinary workgroups with laboratory managers to resolve quality and patient safety issues and promote laboratory initiatives.
7. Provide management oversight of the quality program within Laboratory Services, delegating duties as appropriate.
8. Interpret and analyze data to support quality improvement initiatives.
9. Prepare and present quality assurance reports, performance improvement reports, root cause analyses, turnaround times, and other quality metrics to promote continual laboratory improvement.
10. Support educational activities related to external facility partnerships and ensure accreditation adherence.
11. Oversee accreditation survey coordination and ensure audit readiness.
12. Develop and execute action plans based on survey and review findings.
13. Guide the development and maintenance of Human Resource policies and job descriptions to ensure compliance.
14. Chair regularly scheduled Quality Assurance and Improvement Committee meetings, providing coaching and mentorship to the Quality Team.
15. Chair Safety Committee meetings to share safety-related information.
16. Participate in Medical Center committees to stay informed about policy changes affecting laboratories.
17. Act as liaison to the Medical Center Quality department for The Joint Commission and other agencies.
18. Establish relationships with external organizations, stay informed on industry trends, and incorporate best practices in laboratory quality management.
19. Perform other duties as assigned.

Position Compensation Range: $76,398.40 - $122,241.60 annually.

Minimum Requirements

Education: Bachelor's Degree with completion of a NAACLS-approved MLS/CLS/HTL/CT program preferred, or Associate Degree in Medical Laboratory Technology from a NAACLS-approved program. Coursework in process and quality improvement preferred.

Experience: At least 3 years of regulatory experience in a complex health environment with increasing leadership responsibilities.

Licenses/Certifications: MLS/CLS, CT, HTL, PA, or categorical, ASCP or equivalent. Healthcare certifications like RN may be considered. Certification in process and quality improvement is preferred. Valid Virginia Driver's License may be required.

Physical Demands: Sitting, walking across multiple sites, repetitive motions. Exposure to fumes, chemicals, radiation, blood, body fluids, infectious diseases. Periodic out-of-state travel required.

The University of Virginia and UVA Health System are committed to diversity and equal opportunity employment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration regardless of age, race, gender identity, disability, or other protected status.