Description

Purpose:
The Communications Specialist functions as a direct facilitator in processing and executing service requests for the STAT MedEvac system. Responsibilities include obtaining the appropriate information for service requests and providing any additional assistance necessary to meet the system's needs. The Communications Specialist functions as a part of the Communications Center and shares responsibility for working cooperatively with all team members. The Communications Specialist dispatches and communicates with all STAT MedEvac assets, maintains logs and records, and performs other duties as assigned. Supports and upholds the mission, goals, and objectives, of the STAT MedEvac system at all times.

Responsibilities:

• Demonstrate competency in resident dispatch response procedure and documentation.
• Responds promptly and efficiently to requests for service (air and ground).
• Reflects a positive attitude to the customer in a high stress environment at all times, with a clear understanding of who the customer is.
• Demonstrate competency in successful use of attending physician
• Adheres to rules for scheduling, including schedule requests, minimum time, and availability.
• Coordinate communications between transport teams, faculty physicians, referring and receiving hospitals.
• Participates in education and training sessions in a positive and constructive manner.
• Demonstrates competency in assigning requests for service to the most appropriate patient transport mode (i.e., helicopter, fixed wing or ambulance).
• Reports injuries and completes the appropriate documentation, no matter how minor, to a supervisor in a timely manner.
• Performs all assigned duties, including daily, weekly, monthly, or other duties assigned by the Transport Coordinator, Communications Manager, or Director of Communications including (but not limited to): (Participating in shift report from off going crew, Answering and responding to inquiries in a timely and efficient manner, Reviewing STATCom procedures/ STATMedEvac Policies, Maintaining a clean workspace environment)
• Demonstrates skills, competencies, and judgment necessary to respond to requests by phone, radio or other appropriate communications methods.
• Adheres to uniform policy and maintains a professional and neat appearance while working and representing STAT MedEvac.
• Demonstrates proficiency of operation in all methods of communications including telephone, radio and e-mail.
• Demonstrates the ability to establish a rapport with customers; including the ability to create and sustain a positive relationship; regardless of circumstances or environment.
• Adheres to the drug and alcohol policy at all times.
• Ensures confidentiality of patient information at all times.
• Utilizes appropriate safety channels to report safety concerns, and uses tools available to enhance a safe work environment.
• Seek guidance from the Transport Coordinator as needed for unusual operational circumstances or guidance regarding policy decisions.
• Collects and promptly processes request information including demographics, medical necessity, and other necessary information.
• Document and retrieve information / data on computer/network system including interventions, and other pertinent patient care information in a timely manner.
• Contributes to safety through landing zone verification, following proper communication procedures and flight following.
• Participates constructively in the quality improvement program when requested.
• Documents unusual operational matters in the flight record and /or special report system as warranted.
• Function as a resource for all new STATCom team members and actively participates in the development and training of new staff..
• Reports for work well rested, and fit for duty.
• Completes all official documentation in a timely manner such as payroll, expense reports, orientation forms, etc.

Qualifications

• Experience as an EMT or Paramedic with an EMS provider, with positive interpersonal communications skills.
• Must have the ability to work productively and effectively within a complex environment, handle multiple/changing priorities, and operate a computer.
• Must be willing to work various shifts as assigned and be available for regular on-call shifts.
• Emergency operations center dispatch experience. (preferred)

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:

• A current and valid EMT in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or NREMT certification. (required)
• A current and valid Paramedic in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or NREMT-P certification. (preferred)
• CPR required based on AHA standards that include both a didactic and skills demonstration component within 30 days of hire
• Basic Life Support (BLS) OR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) OR National Registry Emergency Medical Technician (NREMT)

Clearances must be dated within 90 days

• Act 33 with renewal
• Act 34 with renewal
• Act 73 FBI Clearance with renewal

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran

Individuals hired into this role must comply with UPMC’s COVID vaccination requirements upon beginning employment with UPMC. Refer to the COVID-19 Vaccination Information section at the top of this page to learn more.

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