The CPSA, through the Physician Health Monitoring Committee, monitors physicians who have been identified as suffering from chemical abuse or dependency. Currently several methods of monitoring are used, including weekly random urine screens and breathalyzer.
The process to notify physicians of screens is administered by an independent psychologists firm contracted by the College. Results are sent to and reviewed by the MRO.
Refer to the CPSA web site under College Programs for more information on the Physician Health Monitoring Committee.
The MRO position is for a one-year contract and will advise the College on best practices in the screening for substances and oversee the interpretation of toxicology screens. This position will report to the Assistant Registrar responsible for the Physician Health Monitoring Committee.
Qualifications:
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An active license to practice medicine in the province of Alberta, and
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Certification as a Medical Review Officer
Background /Experience:
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Knowledgeable about and have clinical experience in controlled substances abuse disorders, including detailed knowledge of alternative medical explanations for laboratory confirmed drug test results.
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Knowledgeable about issues relating to adulterated and substituted specimens as well as the possible medical causes of specimens having an invalid result.
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Familiar with relevant laws and regulations.
Major Responsibilities Include:
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Advise the CPSA as to best practice in screening for substances.
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Act as an independent and impartial “gatekeeper” and advocate for the accuracy and integrity of the drug testing process.
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Provide a quality assurance review of the drug testing process for the specimens under your responsibility.
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Provide feedback to CPSA, collection sites and laboratories regarding performance issues where necessary.
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Review and interpret all results of toxicology screens for physicians involved in the Physician Health Monitoring program.
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Determine whether there is a legitimate medical explanation for confirmed positive, adulterated, substituted, and invalid drug tests results from the laboratory.
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Investigate and correct problems where possible and notify appropriate parties where assistance is needed, (e.g., cancelled or problematic tests, incorrect results, problems with blind specimens).
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Ensure the timely flow of test results and other information.
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Protect the confidentiality of the drug testing information.
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Maintain copies of all laboratory investigations for a minimum of l0 years.
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Attend meetings as required.
Remuneration will be based on consultation provided to the program and on the volume of tests to be interpreted.
All interested applicants are asked to submit a cover letter, current CV, MRO Certificate copy and three references to:
Human Resource Advisor
The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta
2700-10020 100 Street NW
Edmonton, AB, T5J 0N3
E-mail: HumanResources@cpsa.ab.ca
Deadline for submission is September 15, 2010.
We thank all applicants for their interest in the College; however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.