Clinical Lab Control Clerk

Under the general supervision of the Pathology Supervisor and in accordance with established policies and procedures, this role performs a variety of duties to ensure the centralized receipt, recording, and distribution of laboratory specimens.

The position supports the reporting process by assisting in recording, verifying, and communicating test results, while maintaining detailed records. Responsibilities include logging specimens into department computer systems, managing laboratory communications, and responding to general inquiries and issues. Problems are resolved within scope or escalated with appropriate background information.

All employees are expected to model Brown University Health's core values:

• Compassion
• Accountability
• Respect
• Excellence

Employees are also expected to demonstrate key success factors:

• Instill Trust and Value Differences
• Patient & Community Focus
• Collaboration

• Receive, label, and process specimens across various clinical laboratories
• Maintain accurate logs, worksheets, and data entry in department systems
• Organize and distribute computer-generated reports and billing data
• Identify specimens requiring special handling in collaboration with technologists
• Communicate specimen requirements and ensure proper routing to appropriate labs
• Contact patient care units or physician offices to:
  • Clarify testing requests
  • Request redraws when necessary
  • Prioritize testing when specimen volume is limited
• Answer central laboratory phone line and respond to:
  • Test status inquiries
  • Specimen questions
  • General lab procedure information
• Track and help resolve laboratory-related issues or concerns
• Communicate critical or status test results to appropriate units or physicians
• Enter and maintain laboratory data and records in system databases
• Assist in verifying and reviewing test results for accuracy
• Identify discrepancies and escalate issues to supervisors or technologists
• Perform clerical tasks, including:
  • Maintaining detailed records
  • Coding outpatient billing forms
  • Verifying physician information for report distribution

• High school diploma required; coursework in biology and chemistry preferred
• Understanding of:
  • Laboratory tests and specimen handling procedures
  • Universal precautions and safety practices
• Knowledge of patient care considerations across:
  • Age groups
  • Developmental stages
  • Cultural backgrounds

• Strong organizational and clerical skills
• Basic computer and data entry proficiency
• Analytical skills for reviewing and verifying test results
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to work with:
  • Physicians
  • Nurses
  • Laboratory staff
  • External partners

• One (1) year of relevant experience in a similar role
  OR
• One (1) year of on-the-job training at Rhode Island Hospital

• Exposure to odors, chemicals, and infectious materials when handling specimens
• Adherence to safety protocols minimizes risk

• None