Renee Marie Larson

I have over eighteen years of experience working for the County Of Santa Cruz HSA. I rotate between front desk duties, and clinical lab responsibilities. I collect blood and specimens from patients of all ages, process them for pickup by Quest Diagnostics, and ensure all orders and specimen bags are accurate. I help train and supervise new Phlebotomists, maintain inventory, and ensure a clean, organized work area. I work to minimize wait times and reduce errors while delivering prompt, compassionate care. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I served as an essential worker, drawing blood and handling specimens using proper PPE with minimal supervision. I multitask daily-handling data entry, operating phones, fax/copy machines, and following verbal and written instructions. I have consistently been recognized as a valued team member who promotes collaboration, upholds the County's code of ethics, and contributes to a positive and professional work environment. I take pride in being punctual, dependable, and highly skilled. I maintain excellent attendance, and I am committed to providing accurate, efficient, and compassionate care to every person I encounter. I have handled hazardous materials responsibly following proper waste disposal procedures to minimize environmental impact. I track collected specimens by initialing, dating, and noting times of collection. I often serve as a reliable source of information for colleagues seeking assistance or clarification on lab procedures, test requirements, and equipment use. I work closely with physicians, nurses, and other employees for assistance in obtaining lab orders when needed.

Proficient in performing phlebotomy, heelsticks, and fingersticks on both inpatient and outpatient populations. Conducted phlebotomy rounds for inpatients, ensuring timely specimen collection and quality patient care. Handled data entry for specimen processing and order verification using laboratory information systems. Collected nasal and throat cultures with accurate labeling and proper handling procedures. Assisted in training and mentoring new phlebotomists, supporting onboarding and skill development. Managed inventory and restocking phlebotomy supplies to maintain efficient workflow.

Served as Lead Laboratory Technician at the Watsonville office, overseeing daily operations and providing guidance to fellow technicians. I worked in a few of the PSC locations in Santa Cruz, CA as well. Managed front desk reception duties, including scheduling, patient check-in, payment collection, test ordering, insurance verification, answering questions, answering phones, and operating the fax/copy machines. Collected and processed specimens, including legal drug tests and throat cultures, ensuring compliance with clinical and regulatory standards. Maintained workflow efficiency, supported staff training, and ensured high-quality patient service and laboratory accuracy. Supervised a team of up to three technicians.

Handled front desk reception duties, including answering phones, scheduling appointments, and providing administrative support to clinical staff. Maintained cleanliness of the office and medical equipment in compliance with health and safety standards. Applied ice and heat packs to patients as directed and performed electrical stimulation therapy under supervision. Assisted patients with prescribed exercise routines, ensuring comfort, safety, and adherence to treatment plans.