The Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) is responsible for the proper collection, processing of specimens, and performance of waived testing of laboratory specimens under a CLIA Certificate of Waiver only, the technical direction of the Laboratory Manager/Supervisor, Assistant Supervisor, Medical Technologist II, an MLA Resource Technologist either onsite, or by telephone. Certified MLAs with one year of testing experience will have telephone access if an MT is not on site. The MLA will perform the following waived tests : Rapid strep, Influenza testing, Urine chemistry dipstick, Urine chemistry on the CliniteK Status, urine pregnancy testing, I-stat testing for Hgb and Hct and basic chemistry tests, Finger stick PTINR on the Coaguchek and Hemoccult Cards tests. The MLA is accountable for general leadership of the facility Lab Assistant I and II, providing instruction and technical guidance regarding Laboratory procedures and processes. The Certified MLA must demonstrate extensive knowledge and experience in waived testing procedures and performance, laboratory policies/procedures, phlebotomy, specimen processing and customer service. Good judgement, critical thinking, organizational skills and professionalism are required. The MLA is an integral part of the Laboratory leadership team and must have a clear understanding of the KP mission and principles for delivery of service. Note: An MLA cannot perform testing in a laboratory with a State license.

• Analytic:Performs requested waived laboratory tests and waived proficiency testing, waived correlation studies or other waived testing according to established laboratory and Medical Office policies and procedures, and in accordance with the CLIA Certificate of Waiver under the direction of the Laboratory Supervisor. Prioritizes waived testing and other duties appropriately to assure optimal efficiency and timely reporting of laboratory tests results according to policy standards. Utilizes Quality Control procedures according to established policies/ procedures and takes appropriate action for Out of Control results. Documents Quality Control appropriately; recognizes sources of random and systematic error. Notifies Medical Technologist I, Medical Technologist II, Assistant Supervisor or Laboratory Supervisor/Manager of action taken. Operates and maintains equipment, performs safety checks and preventive maintenance on instruments according to procedures and manufacturers recommendations on a consistent, timely basis to ensure optimal operation and minimal downtime. Performs troubleshooting procedures in an efficient manner that maintains testing schedules. Refers problems beyond his/her scope to the Medical Technologist I, Medical Technologist II, Assistant Laboratory Supervisor or Laboratory Supervisor/Manager in a timely manner.
• Pre-Analytic: Greets members promptly using good customer service skills (make eye contact and smile). Exhibits competency in both Cerner, the Laboratory Information System and Health Connect. Collects laboratory specimens; performs venipuncture proficiently on all age groups. Delivers great customer service: always Shows care and respect for members, resolving issues or finding someone who can. Uses good telephone etiquette (give name, location). Establishes and maintains effective relationships with internal and external customers. Prioritizes work to meet member/customer needs, e.g. be mindful of wait times. Escorts members for urine specimen collection to restrooms and explains collection procedure. Follows department policies/procedures for specimen collection, including Standard Precautions and use of appropriate PPE. Maintains a professional demeanor/appearance per regional policy while collecting specimens. Researches and collects appropriate specimen for the test(s) requested. Addresses members properly, collecting specimens efficiently with compassion. Consistently displays good communication skills. Clearly explains, ensures understanding of collection/storage instructions for members with take home tests. Promptly responds to requests for venipuncture to be performed in areas outside of the laboratory. Be familiar with emergency codes and be able to execute appropriate emergency procedures. Processes stats, coagulation and other time sensitive specimens immediately. Follow through with add-on requests. Follows department policies/procedures for processing specimens. Protects PHI per HIPAA, including the proper disposal of all unused labels. Keeps phlebotomy room and accessioning work area clean/sanitized and stocked with in-date supplies and complete checklists. No eating or drinking in the laboratory or phone usage in work area.
• Pre-Analytic: Greets members promptly using good customer service skills (make eye contact and smile). Exhibits competency in both Cerner, the Laboratory Information System and Health Connect. Collects laboratory specimens; performs venipuncture proficiently on all age groups. Delivers great customer service: always Shows care and respect for members, resolving issues or finding someone who can. Uses good telephone etiquette (give name, location). Establishes and maintains effective relationships with internal and external customers. Prioritizes work to meet member/customer needs, e.g. be mindful of wait times. Escorts members for urine specimen collection to restrooms and explains collection procedure. Follows department policies/procedures for specimen collection, including Standard Precautions and use of appropriate PPE. Maintains a professional demeanor/appearance per regional policy while collecting specimens. Researches and collects appropriate specimen for the test(s) requested. Addresses members properly, collecting specimens efficiently with compassion. Consistently displays good communication skills. Clearly explains, ensures understanding of collection/storage instructions for members with take home tests. Promptly responds to requests for venipuncture to be performed in areas outside of the laboratory. Be familiar with emergency codes and be able to execute appropriate emergency procedures. Processes stats, coagulation and other time sensitive specimens immediately. Follow through with add-on requests. Follows department policies/procedures for processing specimens. Protects PHI per HIPAA, including the proper disposal of all unused labels. Keeps phlebotomy room and accessioning work area clean/sanitized and stocked with in-date supplies and complete checklists. No eating or drinking in the laboratory or phone usage in work area.
• Administrative: Assists with workload recording, record review and storage and inventory control. Responsible for monitoring and resolving pending lists per policy. Responds appropriately to provider and clinical staff inquiries. Participates in orientation and training of new employees. Makes recommendations for improvements to the Manager/Supervisor or Assistant Supervisor.