Ventricular Assist Device Specialist

Job Profile Summary

This role focuses on providing medical and clinical support services to patients. In addition, this role focuses on performing the following Cardiology related duties: Evaluates physical conditions related to blood flow and pressure in the coronary arteries and heart chambers by utilizing specialized imaging and other diagnostic techniques. A professional individual contributor role that may direct the work of other lower level professionals or manage processes and programs. The majority of time is spent overseeing the design, implementation or delivery of processes, programs and policies using specialized knowledge and skills typically acquired through advanced education. An experienced level role that applies practical knowledge of job area typically obtained through advanced education and work experience. Works independently with general supervision, problems faced are difficult but typically not complex, and may influence others within the job area through explanation of facts, policies and practices.

Job Overview

This position is responsible to provide technical and operational support to manage the implantation and post implantation monitoring of Ventricular Assist Devices (VADs) and VAD-related equipment. Responsible for device tracking, supply utilization and ordering, preventative maintenance, coordinating repairs and recalls, collaboration with vendors. Assist with on boarding and novel device project management. Provide support to patients, families, and caregivers regarding appropriate care and handling of VAD-related equipment and supplies. Partner with other departments to coordinate and conduct training.

Job Description

Minimum Qualifications:

1. Bachelor's degree in Clinical field or Engineering.

2. Three (3) years healthcare experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Master's degree in Clinical field or Engineering.

2. Five (5) years healthcare experience.

3. Experience in a cardiac or cardiovascular clinical setting.

3. Experience with Ventricular Assist Devices (VADs).

Duties and Responsibilities: The duties and responsibilities listed below are intended to describe the general nature of work and are not intended to be an all-inclusive list. Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned.

1. Record utilization of all VAD-related equipment and supplies.

2. Track all hospital and patient-owned VAD equipment. Maintain VAD equipment database to track patient equipment serial numbers in accordance with Joint Commission standards and requirements. Collaborate with research teams on data and equipment tracking specific to clinical investigations and trials.

3. Ensure preventive maintenance is performed by Medical Engineering in compliance with regulatory requirements.

4. Provide patients, families, and team members with maintenance schedule for VAD-related equipment and supplies.

5. Communicate with patients regarding equipment preventative maintenance and assist with communication regarding equipment troubleshooting and recalls.

6. Notify appropriate community parties prior to patient discharge.

7. Coordinate equipment exchange with ambulatory care team and patients as needed.

8. Document and ensure proper charge placement for replacement equipment.

9. Provide on-call technical support related to VAD equipment troubleshooting for inpatient and outpatient providers.

10. Participate in multidisciplinary meetings for clinical and programmatic discussions.

11. Document and notifies patients and staff regarding recall and product advisories. Manage recall processes, including return shipments of supplies and communication to the clinical team.

12. Coordinate the return of faulty equipment to the manufacturer as well as the receipt of exchange equipment.

13. Ensure that warranty terms are identified and followed.

14. Provide support for the Intermacs registry in collaboration with clinical and quality teams.

15. Participate in the development and maintenance of standard operating procedures for clinical program.

16. Participate in value-based discussions related to revenue cycle.

17. Provide reporting to VAD clinical and operational leaders.

18. Participate in training sessions, external seminars, workshops, conferences, professional affiliations, and related activities/events to keep abreast of developments in the Mechanical Circulatory Support field.

19. Ensure that quality and performance improvement standards related to VAD equipment and Intermacs data submission are developed, implemented, and maintained.

20. Participate in cross-training, as a trainer and a learner, for personal development and to ensure adequate secondary coverage on all applications.

21. Partner with Epic analysts to optimize data collection as it relates to DME.

Physical Requirements:

1. This is largely a sedentary role, which involves sitting most of the time, but may involve movements such as walking, standing, reaching, ascending/descending stairs, and operating office equipment.

2. Frequently required to speak, hear, communicate, and exchange information.

3. Ability to see and read computer displays, read fine print, and/or normal type size print and distinguish letters, numbers, and symbols.

4. Requires manual dexterity using fine hand manipulation to operate computer keyboard.

Skills & Abilities:

1. Excellent customer service orientation, including excellent English communication skills (verbal, written and interpersonal).

2. Knowledge of relevant regulatory clinical and technical standards (e.g., Joint Commission, CMS).

3. Knowledge of statistical analysis and database software.

4. Knowledge of basic anatomy and physiology as applied to the use and operation of equipment.

5. Ability to apply fundamental mathematical principles and formulas.

6. Highly effective written and verbal communication skills.

7. Ability to read complex technical equipment operation manuals and clinical literature.

Tufts Medicine is a leading integrated health system bringing together the best of academic and community healthcare to deliver exceptional, connected and accessible care experiences to consumers across Massachusetts. Comprised of Tufts Medical Center, Lowell General Hospital, MelroseWakefield Hospital, Lawrence Memorial Hospital of Medford, Care at Home - an expansive home care network, and large integrated physician network. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity and inclusion at Tufts Medicine. Tufts Medicine does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, national origin, gender identity and/or expression, marital status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation by emailing us at careers@tuftsmedicine.org.