Specimen Processing Associate Jobs in Boston, MA

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Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology to help millions of people live healthier lives. The work you do with our team will directly improve health outcomes by connecting people with the care, pharmacy benefits, data and resources they need to feel their best. Here, you will find a culture guided by diversity and inclusion, talented peers, comprehensive benefits and career development opportunities. Come make an impact on the communities we serve as you help us advance health equity on a global scale. Join us to start Caring. Connecting. Growing together. 

As the Lab Associate you will obtains blood samples and other non-blood specimens from patients and may deliver samples to the laboratory. You will provides factual information concerning laboratory tests, according to standard procedure.  

Location: 142 Berkley St. Boston, MA 02116

Department: Laboratory

Schedule: Part time, 20 hours/week. Monday - Friday, 8am - 12p

As the Lab Associate you will obtains blood samples and other non-blood specimens from patients and may deliver samples to the laboratory. You will provides factual information concerning laboratory tests, according to standard procedure.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Collects blood specimens for laboratory testing utilizing venipuncture, skin puncture finger sticks and heel sticks. The method and complexity of the collection may vary by site
• Collects non-blood specimens such as urine, sputum
• Checks the test requisition or computer label to assure correctness and completeness prior to collecting samples.  Brings discrepancies to the attention of test originator or other lab personnel for correction
• Assembles equipment such as tourniquet, needles, disposable containers for needles, blood collection devices, gauze, cotton, and alcohol on work tray according to requirements for specified tests or procedures
• Verifies or records identity of patient and converses with patient to allay fear of procedure
• For venipuncture testing, applies tourniquet to arm, locates accessible vein, swabs puncture area with antiseptic, and inserts needle into vein to draw blood into collection tube or bag. Withdraws needle, applies treatment to puncture site, and labels and stores blood container for subsequent processing
• Accessions and processes specimens to prepare them for laboratory testing
• Records requests for blood collections; answers general questions concerning test orders and collection; takes messages or routes calls
• May perform waived  or moderately complex testing utilizing a test kit or lab instrument, such as bacterial overgrowth. Performs preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and calibration of the device.  Has knowledge of reagent stability and storage.  Follows quality control procedures.  
• May perform Proficiency Testing. Understands factors influencing test results.  Runs the quality control report before reporting in order to provides valid patient test results.  Understands the testing procedure.  Follows procedure in reporting test values
• Contributes to the general laboratory functions and organizational needs.  Attends regular department staff meetings and in-service training
• Keeps work area neat and clean, and restocks daily supplies
• May perform receptionist duties including greeting patient, reviewing laboratory request sheets, informing patient of additional instructions, responding to questions
• Performs various computer functions as needed related to processing of specimens
• Performs clerical duties including recording of daily specimen volumes, maintaining supplies of patient questionnaires and filing
• May be assigned to assist in training student interns and new employees
• May be assigned to various clinical areas to assist with specimen processing and testing procedures
• Adheres to all laboratory policies and procedures and reviews policy and procedures on an annual basis
• Ensures excellent communication, collaboration and cooperation with coworkers, medical staff and supervisors.  Informs them of workflow or technical issues
• Adheres to all PPE while handling biohazards especially the use of gloves and handwashing
• Utilizes safety devices for sharp in accordance with established procedures
• Ability to draw all ages

You'll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear direction on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in.

Required Qualifications:

• High School Diploma/GED 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Graduation from a Phlebotomy technical training program
• Phlebotomy Technician (PBT) certification
• Previous phlebotomy experience or equivalent externship experience
• American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS)
• Knowledge of medical terminology obtained through previous medical practice experience (up to 1 year)
• Proficiency in the use of Lab Information Systems (LIS) and Electronic Medical Records (EMR)
• Proven ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing
• Proven solid interpersonal skills and customer service orientation

Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). No matter where or when you begin a career with us, you'll find a far-reaching choice of benefits and incentives. The hourly pay for this role will range from $16.15 to $28.80 per hour based on full-time employment. We comply with all minimum wage laws as applicable. 

At UnitedHealth Group, our mission is to help people live healthier lives and make the health system work better for everyone. We believe everyone-of every race, gender, sexuality, age, location, and income-deserves the opportunity to live their healthiest life. Today, however, there are still far too many barriers to good health which are disproportionately experienced by people of color, historically marginalized groups, and those with lower incomes. We are committed to mitigating our impact on the environment and enabling and delivering equitable care that addresses health disparities and improves health outcomes - an enterprise priority reflected in our mission.

UnitedHealth Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer under applicable law and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.

UnitedHealth Group is a drug - free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.

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