Medical Assistant

Overview

The Medical Assistant is responsible for efficient and courteous registration, transfer and discharge of patients within established policies and procedures; thoroughly compiles and types of medical information for patients' records and statistical reports and maintains current and accurate patient account receivables. The Medical Assistant is responsible for performing a wide variety of patient care activities and accommodative services for the comfort and well-being of patients in accordance with physicians' orders.

Responsibilities

• Performs basic patient care procedures as required.

• Participates in conferences and serves on committees as requested.

• Participates in patient and family education as necessary.

• Prepares for and assists with diagnostic and therapeutic treatments.

• Takes and records vital signs, height, and weight.

• Performs catheterizations and provides catheter care.

• Administers oral and intramuscular medications.

• Cares for patients receiving oxygen therapy.

• Applies sterile and non-sterile compresses and bandages.

• Tests urine for sugar, acetone, and pH.

• Assists with physical examinations.

• Applies ace bandages and hot and/or cold compresses.

• Collects specimens including blood, urine, stool, and sputum. May perform venipunctures and EKGs as needed.

• Maintains cleanliness, safety, and efficiency in the clinic.

• Remains alert and responds appropriately in emergency situations.

• Prepares used equipment for re-sterilization.

• Understands legal reporting requirements and follows established procedures for reporting to law enforcement, health departments, and other agencies.

• Accompanies or transports patients to ancillary departments such as Laboratory and Radiology.

• Cleans and stocks examination rooms.

• Manages time effectively to facilitate patient flow.

• Assists with minor outpatient surgical procedures.

• Greets patients courteously, determines needs, and provides assistance.

• Registers patients and prepares records, reports, notices, charge slips, and payor information.

• Interviews patients, family members, or responsible parties regarding payment arrangements and refers unusual situations to the immediate supervisor.

• Assists self-pay patients with payment arrangements when appropriate.

• Answers patient account inquiries and explains insurance benefits.

• Receives payments and deposits, issues receipts, and maintains accurate accounting of funds received.

• Posts charges and payments to patient accounts daily.

• Determines appropriate billing methods for third-party payors.

• Contacts insurance carriers and agencies to obtain precertification for ancillary services, admissions, and surgical procedures.

• Operates office equipment including copiers, fax machines, and other assigned equipment.

• Operates communication systems, including answering telephones, placing calls, paging, and contacting staff.

• May schedule and maintain appointments for clinic providers.

• Secures required signatures on reports and records in accordance with release-of-information policies and procedures.

• Contacts patients, physicians, and other individuals to obtain information necessary to complete insurance and billing documentation.

• Types correspondence, memos, and other documents as needed.

• Compiles periodic reports, statistical data, and other information as directed.

• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma Required

• Graduate of Medical Assistant Training Program Preferred

Experience

• Up to 1 year experience preferred.

• Three (3) to six (6) months of on-the-job training required to attain proficiency in assigned duties and responsibilities if not certified. Required

Required Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• Ability to obtain patient history and record vital signs to assist physicians with examination and treatment.

• Ability to prepare and maintain examination and treatment areas.

• Ability to perform selected tests that assist with diagnosis and treatment.

• Ability to screen and follow up on patient test results.

• Ability to prepare and administer medications as directed by a physician and maintain accurate medication records.

Licenses & Certifications

• Medical Assistant certification from an accredited program Preferred.