Experienced NHS Reception/Administrator

NHS; England; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A busy GP practice in the UK is seeking a dedicated Receptionist/Administrator to join their team. The candidate will be responsible for patient interactions and managing front desk duties, ensuring a smooth operation of the practice. Applicants should possess strong communication and IT skills, alongside a commitment to confidentiality and customer service. This role entails a variety of administrative tasks while providing excellent support to both patients and clinical staff.

Benefits

Supportive working environment

Training and development opportunities

NHS pension scheme

Flexible working hours

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a customer service, receptionist, or administrative role.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Responsibilities

• Greet and assist patients professionally.
• Manage incoming telephone calls adequately.
• Process prescription requests accurately.
• Maintain patient confidentiality as per regulations.

Skills

Customer service experience

Strong communication skills

Excellent IT skills

Ability to multitask

Tools

Microsoft Office

EMIS

SystmOne

Job description

Central Uxbridge Surgery is a busy GP practice serving a diverse community of 16,000 patients. We are looking for a professional and dedicated Receptionist/Administrator to join our friendly team. This role is crucial in ensuring the smooth running of the practice, providing excellent patient service, and supporting clinical and administrative staff.

What We Offer

• Supportive and friendly working environment
• Training and development opportunities
• NHS pension scheme
• Competitive salary based on experience
• Flexible working hours where possible
• Opportunity to work within a dynamic and growing healthcare team
• Exposure to a variety of administrative and patient‑facing responsibilities

Main Responsibilities

Patient Interaction & Front Desk Management

• Greet and assist patients and visitors in a professional, friendly, and empathetic manner.
• Manage incoming telephone calls, ensuring prompt and courteous responses to patient queries.
• Book, cancel, and reschedule appointments efficiently using the clinical system.
• Handle urgent appointment requests and signpost patients to appropriate services.
• Process patient registrations, ensuring accuracy and compliance with practice policies.
• Manage waiting room flow and assist in ensuring a smooth patient journey within the surgery.
• Explain practice policies and services, including online access, repeat prescriptions, and appointment availability.

Administrative Duties

• Process prescription requests, referrals, and medical reports efficiently and accurately.
• Scan, file, and distribute incoming correspondence, including hospital letters and test results.
• Handle electronic document workflow, ensuring all records are updated promptly.
• Respond to and manage internal and external emails professionally and efficiently.
• Support the recall system by contacting patients for routine health checks and immunisations.
• Maintain patient confidentiality at all times in accordance with GDPR and practice policies.
• Assist in updating practice information boards, patient leaflets, and other communication materials.

Operational Support

• Monitor and maintain office supplies, ordering stock as needed.
• Assist in preparing clinics, ensuring that patient lists and necessary documentation are ready for clinicians.
• Work collaboratively with clinical and administrative teams to ensure efficient service delivery.
• Attend team meetings and contribute to discussions on improving patient experience and practice operations.
• Help troubleshoot IT and telephony issues, escalating to IT support when necessary.
• Support the practice during flu vaccination clinics, health promotion campaigns, and other practice‑led initiatives.

Compliance & Professional Standards

• Adhere to practice policies and procedures, including infection control, safeguarding, and health and safety guidelines.
• Ensure accurate recording and maintenance of patient information in line with NHS and practice regulations.
• Report any incidents, concerns, or complaints to the practice manager in a timely manner.
• Participate in training sessions, ensuring up‑to‑date knowledge of relevant healthcare and administrative procedures.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding patient and practice matters at all times.

Required Skills & Experience

Essential Criteria

• Previous experience in a customer service, receptionist, or administrative role.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Excellent IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and the ability to learn new systems quickly.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• A proactive and professional approach to work with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to multitask and manage workload effectively in a busy environment.
• Commitment to patient confidentiality and data protection regulations.

Desirable Criteria

• Previous experience working in a GP surgery, healthcare setting, or NHS role.
• Knowledge of clinical systems such as EMIS, SystmOne, or Vision.
• Familiarity with medical terminology and healthcare procedures.
• Understanding of NHS and general practice operations.
• Experience processing prescriptions and referrals.

Person Specification

• Previous experience in primary care (desirable).

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and requires submission for Disclosure to the Disclosure and Barring Service to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Employer Details

• Employer name: Central Uxbridge Surgery
• Address: Uxbridge Health Centre, George Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1UB
• Website: https://www.centraluxbridgesurgery.co.uk/