Yale New Haven Health

Integrated hospital system with academic affiliations

Float Outpatient Phlebotomist

Diagnostics & Laboratory ProfessionalsUpdated on Nov 10

Full-timeNew Haven, CT, USANo salary listedIn-person

About the Job

Requirements

A high school diploma or GED is required.
Completion of an approved phlebotomy certification course or equivalent experience with on-the-job training is required.
At least six months of current phlebotomy experience, or successful completion of an accredited phlebotomy program and internship, is required.
Two to three years of work experience in a customer-service environment, preferably in a hospital or physician's office with patient interaction, is required.
Phlebotomy certification or equivalent is required.
The candidate must be self-directed and organized, work effectively with a team, and be able to educate patients and their families and convey instructions.
The candidate must be able to multitask and reprioritize in response to changes in workload.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport with clinical staff and a wide range of individuals are required.
A basic understanding of phlebotomy and medical terminology is required.
Investigative, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills are required.
Intermediate computer skills and the ability to adapt to various programs and systems are required.
Demonstrated proficiency in understanding phlebotomy and patient registration processes that affect workflow is required.
The candidate must be able to provide training or in-service to staff, students, and other areas within the department and hospital.
Effective written and oral communication skills are required, including the ability to communicate complex requirements across clinical and financial disciplines.

Responsibilities

Perform phlebotomy for patients at outpatient laboratory draw stations under the general supervision of the Lab Blood Draw Station Supervisor and perform office duties as needed to support draw-station operations.
Obtain required information from referring physicians and clinical providers and provide it to third-party payers to support reimbursement for outpatient laboratory services.
Review patients' insurance information and accurately record it in the electronic medical record.
Create medical record numbers and complete registrations for new patients in the YNHH electronic medical record; update established patient records in the YNHH hospital information system and create hospital-account and encounter components for Laboratory Medicine dates of service as needed.
Prepare Laboratory Medicine advance beneficiary notices as needed, explain them to patients, obtain signatures, and scan signed forms into the YNHH hospital information system.
Give patients clear instructions about laboratory blood-draw dates, times, and locations.
Enter appropriate comments and notes on electronic medical record orders to document issue resolution.
Ensure advance beneficiary notices, pre-authorizations, and pre-certifications are received before specimen collection; communicate authorization questions to the supervisor and provide information needed to obtain approvals.
Explain patients' financial responsibilities, billing requirements, non-covered balances, self-pay policies, and financial-document requirements, and make reasonable efforts to obtain information at the time of service.
Follow state and federal requirements, HIPAA, Joint Commission requirements, and applicable federal mandates.
Verify laboratory test orders and answer patients' questions about specimen collection.
Collect test requisitions from patients or providers when necessary and transcribe them accurately; confirm orders using chart notes and specimen comments before collection.
Review requisitions for complete diagnosis information, physician signatures, and special specimen instructions, and contact physician offices to correct incomplete information before blood draws.
Coordinate collection timing with specimen stability requirements and transport logistics, including special handling with ice or dry ice in coordination with the Lab Reference Department.
Maintain, file, and track test-order paperwork and documentation for regulatory audits, and document refused tests or collections that could not be performed during a patient's visit.
Manage preadmission laboratory testing by reviewing ordered tests and ensuring collection dates meet preoperative physician requirements; coordinate with physicians and patients to ensure tests are collected before surgery and alert them if results may not be available before a procedure.
Add the requested physician or provider and patient to test orders so final results are sent to them.
Collect laboratory samples and perform electrocardiograms safely and efficiently according to department standards; maintain annual technical competencies in venipuncture, electrocardiograms, and nasal swab collection.
Follow specimen-handling guidelines, laboratory policies, procedures, and required competencies; attend required compliance education and staff meetings and seek assistance when unable to perform collections within established limits.
Verify patient identity and label specimens accurately and legibly at the time of collection.
Collect specimens in appropriate vacutainers, follow the correct order of draw, and perform blood-culture venipuncture using aseptic technique.
Explain urine and stool collection procedures to patients and emphasize the importance of proper collection.
Use universal precautions for venipuncture, electrocardiograms, and nasal swab collection.
Disinfect and maintain draw rooms, patient waiting areas, and staff lounges in accordance with applicable laboratory and public-health regulations.
Recognize and respond to adverse reactions to venipuncture, follow safety protocols, and document incidents for supervisory review.
Process collected and patient- or staff-delivered specimens, package them appropriately for transport, and centrifuge specimens at the correct speed and duration for the collection tube.
Clean and maintain centrifuges weekly and update maintenance logs; document room, refrigerator, and freezer temperatures daily and correct and document deviations.
Notify Phleb III when recurring issues cannot be resolved through troubleshooting.
Separate specimens according to temperature, processing, and stability requirements; scan each specimen onto the appropriate packing list and ensure specimens are tracked in the electronic medical record.
Investigate unaccounted-for specimens, secure specimens in locked pickup boxes when stations are closed, and maintain specimen integrity from collection through courier pickup.
Prepare specimens for courier pickup, follow up promptly when couriers miss scheduled pickups, and report courier issues to Phleb III.
Maintain specimen-collection supplies and draw-station inventory; support regulatory inspections and quality assurance with the coordinator and Outreach Senior Manager.
Assess draw-station regulatory compliance independently, submit weekly Sentact audits, keep the station inspection-ready, notify coordinators when inspectors arrive, and participate in regulatory inspections by answering questions accurately.
Review laboratory orders, histories and physicals, and cardiology tests, and alert clinical staff to inconsistencies.
Monitor supplies weekly, maintain records of usage, order appropriate quantities, discard expired or outdated inventory, remove recalled materials, and inspect collection devices before patient use.
Use applicable computer systems, including Epic, to complete tasks and specimen collections; maintain productivity and adapt to process changes.
Maintain working knowledge of Epic to order and collect complex and time-sensitive laboratory tests; switch among systems to check authorizations, collect and process specimens, and resolve patient, provider, and insurer issues.
Identify system discrepancies, reconcile them when appropriate, report them to IT resources, or escalate them; implement downtime procedures as required.
Follow Health System standards of professional behavior, welcome patients and visitors, and maintain smooth patient-service processes.
Promptly advise clinical staff when patients arrive, coordinate timely patient throughput, notify the team of delays, and keep patients informed.
Answer telephone calls by the third ring and follow telephone etiquette guidelines; initiate the service-recovery process when service standards are compromised.
Follow department uniform and professional-attire guidelines.
Use effective communication when coordinating work, training, and proposing workflow adjustments and processes.
Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Overview

To be part of our organization, every employee should understand and share in the YNHHS Vision, support our Mission, and live our Values. These values - integrity, patient-centered, respect, accountability, and compassion - must guide what we do, as individuals and professionals, every day.

Under the general supervision of the Lab Blood Draw Station Supervisor within Laboratory Medicine, performs phlebotomy for patients seen at draw station locations. Also performs various office duties as necessary to support the draw station operations. Consistently interacts with patients and clients in a positive manner

EEO/AA/Disability/Veteran

Responsibilities

1. Ensures all required information is obtained from referring physicians and providers in clinical areas and provided to the third party payers to ensure reimbursement for services delivered within the outpatient lab blood draw setting
2. Accurately reviews insurance information with patients to ensure all of the information is recorded in the EMR
3. Using hospital wide standards, creates MR numbers for new patients in the YNHH EMR and creates a complete registration
4. Updates established patient records in the YNHH HIS and creates HAR and CSN components for Laboratory Medicine date of service as needed
5. As needed, produces Laboratory Medicine ABN's, provides financial consultation regarding these forms to patients, obtains patient signature, and scans signed form into YNHH HIS
6. Clearly identifies and communicates instructions, dates, times and locations of Lab Blood Draw with each patient
7. Enters appropriate comments and notes on the orders in the EMR identifying the resolution of issues
8. Ensures all ABNs, pre-authorizations and pre-certifications are received prior to specimen collection
9. Informs patients of their financial responsibility as it relates to billing requirements and non-covered balances. Makes all attempts to obtain information at the time of service. When applicable, explains the hospitals self-pay policy and determines the need to initiate financial document for reimbursement
10. Communicates with Supervisor regarding any issues or questions regarding authorizations for lab testing. Provides patient information as needed in order for approvals to be obtained
11. Adheres to state and federal guidelines as it pertains to HIPAA and JCAHO requirements and all federal mandates
12. Verifies the accuracy of laboratory tests ordered and has knowledge to answer collection inquiries from patients
13. Gathers test order requisitions from patients or physicians/providers, when necessary, and transcribes them accurately
14. Confirms test orders using chart notes and specimen comments prior to collection
15. Reviews requisitions for completeness of information to include diagnosis information, physician signature and any special specimen instructions. If incomplete, follows through with a contact to physician office(s) for correct information prior to the blood draw
16. Coordinates the time of specimen collection with stability requirements and the logistics of specimen transport to the appropriate testing facility. Works closely with Lab Reference Department to ensure proper specimen transport conditions requiring ice or dry ice
17. Maintains paperwork and documentation regarding test orders. Properly filing and tracking orders in the event of a regulatory audit. Adds comments to test orders when patients refuse testing or if the specimen collection cannot be performed during the patients visit
18. Manages the preadmission laboratory testing process by reviewing tests ordered and ensuring the collection date is within the proper limits as determined by the pre-op physicians
19. Adds the proper physician/provider and patients to the test order if they request that the final results be sent to them
20. Ensures all tests are collected prior to surgery. Coordinates with physician and patient if test results will not be completed prior to the scheduled procedure or surgery
21. Responsible for collecting laboratory samples and performing electrocardiograms on patients in a safe and efficient manner, following department standards to support quality patient care
22. Maintains annual updates to technical competency on venipuncture technique, performing EKGs, and nasal swab collections as observed by coordinator
23. Follows established specimen handling guidelines and precautions as described in the Laboratory Policy and Procedures Manual without deviation from these established guidelines
24. Annually reviews the Laboratory Policy and Procedure Manual and completes the associated competencies
25. Verifies patient identity and performs positive patient identification accurately and without error to ensure the safety of patients and the accuracy of the lab test results
26. Responsible for labeling all specimens legibly and accurately without error at time of draw, with all pertinent information as required by hospital and departmental standards
27. Attends continuing education lectures and staff meetings relating to compliance as required. Maintains proficiency in specimen collection and seeks assistance when unable to perform a specimen collection or EKG within the established limits set by the Lab
28. Properly collects specimen in the appropriate vacutainers to ensure the testing can be performed. Understands the order of draw and recognizes the importance of collecting samples in the correct order
29. Performs venipuncture for blood cultures using an aseptic technique to minimize the contamination of blood culture bottles which may lead to the unnecessary use of antibiotics
30. Accurately explains urine and stool sample collection to patients and emphasizes the importance that proper collection plays in the accuracy of lab test results
31. Follows universal precaution standards for each venipuncture, EKG or nasal swab collection 100% of the time
32. Properly disinfects and maintains the draw room area for specimen collections, patient waiting area and staff lounges to ensure a clean and safe environment as per established CLIA, CMS, CAP, JCAHO, and CDC regulations
33. Recognizes the signs and symptoms associated with an adverse reaction to a venipuncture and follows the proper protocols to maintain patient safety. Documents the adverse reaction and submits documentation for review of the incident by supervisory staff
34. Responsible for the processing of collected specimen and drop-off specimen by patients or other healthcare workers. Packages specimen appropriately for transport to testing laboratory
35. Once specimen are obtained, they are properly centrifuged at the correct speed and for the appropriate duration depending on the vacutainer used for collection
36. Performs weekly maintenance and cleaning of centrifuge as outlined in centrifuge maintenance procedure. Updates maintenance log as required
37. Temperature of the refrigerators, freezers and room are documented daily and with accuracy. Any deviation from the established temperature reference ranges are corrected. Documentation of the resolution and adjustments are documented and signed
38. If issues arise repeatedly, and troubleshooting doesn?t resolve the issue, Phleb III is to be notified immediately to ensure the integrity of the collected samples
39. Specimen and separated and placed on the appropriate packing list based on their temperature requirements, performing laboratory and stability. Each specimen is scanned onto the packing list individually with a barcode scanner ensuring that all specimen are accounted for and are tracked in the EMR
40. When specimen are unaccounted for, the blood draw room and surrounding areas are examined to ensure that they were sent via courier
41. Specimen are placed in the locked specimen pick-up boxes at times when Blood Draw Stations are closed and couriers cannot enter the facilities for pick-up
42. Responsible for assuring specimen integrity from the point of obtaining the specimen at the Blood Draw Station through courier pick up
43. Courier pick-up times are recognized and the specimen are prepared in advance of the courier?s arrival ensuring swift transport to the destination performing laboratory
44. If couriers fail to arrive at the predetermined time, phlebotomists follow-up with courier to guarantee specimen are picked up immediately. Issues with couriers are communicated to Phleb III
45. Responsible for the inventory and supplies necessary for specimen collection and overall operation of the Lab Blood Draw Station. In collaboration with coordinator and Outreach Senior Manager, provides support in department for regulatory inspections and QA
46. Independently assess the Blood Draw Station for regulatory compliance and submits Sentact audits weekly
47. Ensures that the Blood Draw Station is compliant and ready for regulatory inspections at all times and notifies coordinators if inspectors arrives on-site
48. Participates in unannounced regulatory inspection by CAP, CT DPH JCAHO or any other regulatory agency. Answers regulatory questions accurately and to the best of their knowledge
49. Reviews lab orders, history and physicals, cardiology tests, etc. and alerts clinical staff of any inconsistencies
50. Maintains weekly supply inventory and records the supplies used. Orders enough supplies for a week without excess leading to expired supplies or shortage resulting in an emergency delivery of supplies
51. Assess supplies weekly and discards expired or outdated inventory including collection materials, PPE, and disinfecting materials. Removes recalled materials and inspects collection devices for integrity before using on patients
52. Utilizes all applicable computer systems such as but not limited to Epic, to accomplish tasks and appropriate specimen collections. Manages changes in process in order to service our patients and clinicians and always maintains high productivity standards
53. Maintains a strong working knowledge of the Epic system with the ability to order and collect complex and time sensitive lab tests
54. Ability to multitask and toggle between systems and resources as necessary to determine status of ABNs, pre-authorizations, collect specimen, process specimen and answer/resolve problems for patients, providers and insurers
55. Identifies discrepancies within the systems and reconciles if appropriate and/ or reports to the defined IT resources or escalates appropriately
56. Ability to operationalize downtime procedures as required
57. Provides service excellence as outlined in the Health System Standards of Professional Behavior
58. Ensures smooth functioning of all processes in order to guarantee a positive patient experience by acknowledging and receiving patients and visitors to the department following the YNHHS Standards of Professional Behavior
59. Is prompt, courteous and accurate in advising clinical staff of the patient?s arrival working closely to ensure timely patient throughput. Notifies team of experienced delays and keeps patients informed when delays occur
60. Answers telephone by responding no later by the third ring, demonstrating appropriate telephone etiquette guidelines
61. Recognizes when Service Excellence has been compromised and appropriately initiates the Service Recovery Process
62. Follows Department Uniform Policy and Dress code Guidelines related to professional, business attire at all times
63. Utilizes effective communication skills when coordinating work efforts, training, and proposing work flow adjustments and processes
64. Performs other duties as assigned by management as needed

Qualifications

EDUCATION

High school diploma or GED required. Completion of an approved Phlebotomy certification course or equivalent experience with on the job training

EXPERIENCE

A minimum of six (6) months of current phlebotomy experience OR successful completion of an accredited phlebotomy program and internship. Two (2) to three (3) years' work experience in a customer service environment preferably in hospital /physician office with patient interaction

LICENSURE

Phlebotomy Certification or equivalent

SPECIAL SKILLS

Self-directed, well organized and exhibiting team oriented skills with the ability and desire to educate and convey instructions to patients and their families. Must be able to multitask and reprioritize in response to fluctuations in volume. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build rapport with a wide variety of individuals including clinical staff in order to meet the patient's needs. Basic understanding of phlebotomy and medical terminology. Excellent investigative, critical thinking and problem solving skills. Intermediate computer skills and the ability to adapt to various programs/systems. Demonstrated proficiency in understanding phlebotomy and patient registration that affect workflow. Must be able to provide training or in-service to other staff, students and other areas within the department and Hospital. Consistently demonstrates effective written and oral communication skills in coordination with the Standards of Professional Behavior with the ability to communicate complex requirements across clinical and financial disciplines

YNHHS Requisition ID

191702

About the Company

Yale New Haven Health

Integrated hospital system with academic affiliations

Yale New Haven Health is a health system that operates five hospitals (Yale New Haven, Bridgeport, Greenwich, Lawrence + Memorial, Westerly) and provides access to a wide network of primary care physicians and specialists through Northeast Medical Group and Yale Medicine. Through its affiliation with Yale University and Yale School of Medicine, it connects patients to the latest medical treatments and research. Its facilities and outpatient locations enable coordinated care across a single organization that aims to be more patient-focused, more accessible, and more cost-effective. The system delivers care by combining hospital services, primary and specialty care, and advanced clinical relationships to integrate treatment with ongoing research and clinical trials, offering patients access to innovative therapies and personalized treatment options.

Company size: 1,001-5,000
Company stage: Not listed
Total funding: Not listed
Headquarters: New Haven, CT
Founded: 1996

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