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Pathology Shadow Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Pathology Shadow information

What is pathology shadowing?

Pathology shadowing is an observational experience where students or aspiring healthcare professionals follow a pathologist to learn about their daily responsibilities and the field of pathology. This experience allows individuals to gain insight into how pathologists diagnose diseases by examining tissues, cells, and bodily fluids. Shadowing also helps participants understand the importance of laboratory work and how pathologists collaborate with other medical professionals to support patient care.

What can I expect from a typical day while shadowing a pathologist, and how can I make the most of the experience?

During a pathology shadowing experience, you will typically observe how pathologists analyze laboratory samples, review slides under microscopes, and discuss findings with fellow medical professionals. You may also attend case discussions, tumor boards, or autopsy examinations, depending on the facility and the day's cases. To maximize your learning, come prepared with questions, take notes discreetly, and observe confidentiality protocols. Engaging respectfully with the pathology team and expressing interest in the diagnostic process will help you gain deeper insights and potentially build valuable professional connections.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pathology shadow, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pathology Shadow, you need a solid understanding of biological sciences, attention to detail, and a keen interest in laboratory procedures, often supported by relevant coursework or pre-medical studies. Familiarity with laboratory safety protocols, specimen handling, and basic lab equipment is beneficial. Strong observational skills, professionalism, and effective communication help you learn from pathologists and integrate into clinical teams. These abilities are crucial for maximizing the learning experience, ensuring safety, and building foundational knowledge for a career in pathology.

What is the difference between Pathology Shadow vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectPathology ShadowMedical Laboratory Technician
Required CredentialsNone (observational role)Associate's degree in medical laboratory technology, certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, pathology labs (observational)Laboratories performing diagnostic tests
Employer & Industry UsageEducational, shadowing programs, hospitalsMedical labs, hospitals, clinics
Common Search & ComparisonPathology Shadow vs Medical Laboratory Technician

The main difference is that a Pathology Shadow observes and learns without performing tests, while a Medical Laboratory Technician actively conducts diagnostic tests in labs. Shadows gain exposure and insight, whereas technicians handle hands-on laboratory work essential for diagnosis.

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Pathology Shadow jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Pathology Shadow job openings:

Medical Technologist Intern - Mount Pleasant

Mount Pleasant, MI โ€ข On-site

Other

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Laboratory Internship

The purpose of this position is to provide laboratory experience during the summer semester between the junior and senior year to individuals currently enrolled in a NAACLS accredited Medical Laboratory Science program. Once the academic part of the program is complete, the individual may apply for a graduate position once qualified.

Laboratory interns work under the direct supervision of the medical technologist (medical laboratory specialist) and a pathologist or other qualified physician, performing pre-, post, and analytical tasks in the general laboratory.

Responsibilities

(75%)* Support for clinical testing (duties are dependent upon site)

  • General laboratory (chemistry, hematology, urinalysis, blood bank):
    • Prepares specimens for testing.
    • Prepares analyzers for testing: monitors inventory, loads supplies and specimens, and empties waste.
    • Assists with inventory management.
    • Stocks inventory.
    • Assists with pending logs.
    • Assists specimen processing.
    • Assists with troubleshooting to improve TAT.

(25%)* Specimen preparation and processing

  • Identifies specimens properly; uses basic tools of the laboratory proficiently, including centrifuges, incubators, and balances; prepares specimens for processing
  • Registers patients and accurately enters data into the hospital and laboratory information systems.
Certifications and Licensures

N/A

Required Education

Education: College student

Equivalent experience: Must be enrolled in a NAACLS accredited Medical Laboratory Science program and have achieved performance criteria, required to move to the testing portion of the program.

Other Information

Adheres to all laboratory policies and procedures.

Maintains confidentiality of all medical information.

Follows patient registration, billing, and coding procedures where required.

Demonstrates competency in infection prevention and control practices and policies.

Review, clarification, and verification of physician orders.

Follows strict identification policies to accurately identify specimens and perform specimen labeling.

Determines acceptability of specimen for testing, specimen prioritization and distribution, specimen storage, transport, and special handling considerations (time, temperature, and light).

Specimen processing including, but not limited to, centrifugation and aliquoting.

Adheres to all federal CLIA, CAP, and OSHA regulations.

Regulations; safety and infection control; waste disposal; laboratory equipment; professionalism and ethics; and laboratory information system (LIS)

Provides for the age-specific needs of the population served according to department standards and policies/procedures as evidenced by observation, documentation, and peer feedback for patients who range in age from birth to 100+ years.

All other duties as assigned.

Equivalent Experience and Other Comments (Education)

Organization skills, manual dexterity, customer service skills, teamwork skills, and computer skills are required.

Written and interpersonal skills needed to communicate successfully with individuals and groups and interact with employees at all levels within the Medical Center to communicate ideas and concepts in a clear and understandable manner.

MyMichigan Health is a technology-driven organization and employees need to demonstrate competency in Microsoft Windows. An employee may be required to participate in further learning opportunities offered by MyMichigan Health.

Medical terminology, knowledge of laboratory policies, procedures, and protocols are preferred. Knowledge of MISYS LIS, HIS, and admitting policies and procedures are preferred.

Job shadow in the laboratory department may be required commensurate to experience in the department.

Other Comments

Exposure to stressful situations, including those involving public contact, as well as, trauma, grief, and death.

Able to wear personal protective equipment that includes latex materials or appropriate substitute if required for your position.

Is able to move freely about the facility with or without an assisted device and must be able to perform the functions of the job as outlined in the job description.

Overall vision and hearing is necessary with or without assisted device(s).

Frequently required to sit/stand/walk for long periods of time. May require frequent postural changes such as stooping, kneeling, or crouching.

Some exposure to bloodborne pathogens and other potentially infectious material. Must follow MyMichigan Health bloodborne pathogen and TB testing as required.

Ability to handle multiple tasks, get along with others, work independently, regular and predictable attendance, and ability to stay awake.

Overall dexterity is required including handling, reaching, grasping, fingering, and feeling. May require repetition of these movements on a regular to frequent basis.

Physical demand level: Light. Must be able to occasionally (0-33% of the workday) lift or carry 11-20 lbs., frequently (34-66% of the workday) 10 lbs. and or walk/stand/push/pull of arm/leg controls.