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Purpose of the Specialty Cytologist:
Make the final interpretation on both quality control Pap tests and the initial diagnosis of negative Pap tests and render a diagnosis for consideration by the Pathologist on all other cell samples.
Responsibilities of the Specialty Cytologist:
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- Operate and maintain equipment within the scope of training utilizing defined schedules and written instructions to perform quality control checks, preventive maintenance, and calibration. Perform minor repairs.
- Assist Manager with the department staff annual performance evaluations by providing objective feedback, concurrently and retrospectively.
- Maintain in-depth knowledge of cytologic criteria and keep abreast of current developments in the field of cytology.
- Correlate pertinent clinical history and obtain it when necessary as well as correlate current case with previous cytologic and/or surgical specimens.
- Participate in the skills assessment of job applicants.
- Assist with the collection of fine needle aspirations and other specimens as necessary following established procedures
- Identify problems with instrumentation, methodology, specimens, supplies, or results and take appropriate action.
- Enter diagnoses on all patient cases in the Pathology Information System and sign out negative Pap tests.
- Participate in special research projects as requested; conduct, direct, or assist with procedure development and methodology/equipment evaluation and selection and implementation.
- Render diagnosis for consideration by Pathologist on all other cell samples and mark diagnostic areas on slide.
- Perform all responsibilities according to the philosophy of the UPMC Health System such that the needs of our customers are fulfilled.
- Assume responsibility for first-line supervision of the section/department on a temporary basis as delegated.
- Perform final sign out of diagnoses on the majority of Pap tests.
- Present cytology conferences; assist with clinical administrative functions.
- Perform quality control re-screening on Pap tests and perform final sign out or turn-in to Pathologist for review.
- Oversee and assist with problem solving of staining and cytopreparatory procedures; perform cytopreparation, staining and clerical functions as necessary.
- Adhere to established laboratory and hospital policies in areas of procedures, methods, quality control, quality assurance, safety, compliance and personnel policies.
- Perform responsibilities as 60%25 technical bench duties and 40%25 lead specialist duties.
- Interact with all laboratory customers courteously and professionally; respond to telephone inquiries in a timely manner.
- Perform evaluation of cell samples according to established protocols with accuracy in a timely and efficient manner.
- Train and orient new employees, students and residents, as applicable and as assigned.
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university required.Â
- Successful completion of a CAHEA accredited Cytology program required
- 3 years of experience as a Cytologist required.Â
- Pathology Information System experience preferred.
Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
 - American Society for Clinical Pathology
- Act 34
UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran
Learn more about this Employer on their Career Site
