Medical Assistant

University of Massachusetts Amherst; Amherst (MA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Massachusetts Amherst is looking for a full-time Medical Assistant to provide patient care and administrative support at their Medical Services department. This role involves clerical, medical, and organizational tasks while coordinating patient flow and assisting healthcare providers.

Successful candidates will have an Associate degree from an accredited Medical Assistant Program. Responsibilities include taking vital signs, preparing documentation, and performing receptionist duties. Strong communication skills and CPR certification are essential.

Qualifications

• Associate degree from an accredited Medical Assistant Program or successful completion of certification exam for CMA or RMA – (CMA preferred).
• CPR certification required within six (6) months of hire.
• Ability to carry out written and verbal instructions.
• Working knowledge of basic hospital/clinic practices, techniques, equipment and terminology.
• Good oral & written communication skills including telephone etiquette.
• Basic knowledge of insurance plans.
• Computer experience.
• Ability to physically lift & transfer patients.

Responsibilities

• Assists providers with patient care including clerical, medical and organizational tasks.
• Checks provider schedules and organizes patient flow; greets and accompanies patients to exam room.
• Performs basic wound care, suture removal, ear irrigation, and assists provider with minor procedures.
• MaMaintains and monitors proper temperature control for vaccine storage.
• Performs receptionist duties including appointment scheduling, verification of insurance coverage.
• Participates in annual UHS trainings, skills review and competency assessments.

Job description

Title: Medical Assistant

Executive Area: Administration and Finance

College/School/MBU: Direct Medical Care

Department: Medical Services

Work Location: Amherst

Schedule: Full Time

Work Arrangement: Onsite

Job Summary

Assists providers with patient care including clerical, medical and organizational tasks consistent with University Health Services (UHS) organizational guidelines and under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN), Nurse Practitioner (NP), Physician Assistant (PA) or Physician (MD). Works under the direct supervision of the RN Clinical Manager, who establishes work schedules, duty assignments and verifies work performance.

Essential Functions

• Checks provider schedules and organizes patient flow; greeting and accompanying patients to exam room, collecting patient history and performing intake assessments per organizational guidelines.
• Performs and maintains skill level consistent with organization's guidelines for the administration of medications and/or injections done under the supervision of an NP, PA, or MD which includes but is not limited to the following: sets-up and initiates nebulizer treatments; applies oxygen delivery system at correct flow rates; administers immunizations and TB tests per UHS protocol.
• Performs basic wound care, suture removal, ear irrigation, blood glucose monitoring and assists provider with minor procedures including cast applications.
• Prepares appropriate and complete documentation for all patient care activities including telephone encounters while maintaining patient confidentiality.
• Maintains proper handling and storage of hazardous materials (biohazards, corrosives, sharps).
• Performs specimen collection and decentralized laboratory testing per UHS protocol including documentation.
• Takes routine and postural vital signs, performs peak flow measurement and pulse oximetry, EKGs, vision screening, spirometry per UHS protocol.
• Performs routine orthopedic care, crutch/cane instruction, application of air splints, ace wraps and other splints and cast removal.
• Maintains and monitors proper temperature control for vaccine storage.
• Performs receptionist duties as needed including appointment scheduling, verification of insurance coverage and patient demographics utilizing the computerized patient management system.
• Assists with referrals, preauthorization and completing various forms/requisitions as needed to expedite patient care.
• Participates in medical tracking system which includes maintaining accurate data entry including appropriate documentation and informing provider of pertinent information.
• Uses universal precautions when exposed to blood and body fluids.
• Maintains patient confidentiality at all times utilizing current Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) guidelines.
• Maintains adequate levels of supplies in all exam rooms; orders medical and office supplies as needed; performs duties specific to the daily opening and closing of clinics; assists in general housekeeping of the clinic to maintain a safe and clean working environment. Maintains knowledge of equipment and supplies pertinent to clinical operations.
• Participates in annual UHS trainings, skills review and competency assessments. Maintains knowledge and familiarity with UHS policies and procedures.
• Interacts respectfully with patients understanding and promoting patient rights. Promotes a harmonious work environment with co-workers.

Other Functions

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate degree from an accredited Medical Assistant Program or successful completion of certification exam for CMA or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) – (CMA preferred).
• CPR certification required within six (6) months of hire.
• Ability to carry out written and verbal instructions.
• Working knowledge of basic hospital/clinic practices, techniques, equipment and terminology.
• Good oral & written communication skills including telephone etiquette.
• Basic knowledge of insurance plans.
• Computer experience.
• Ability to physically lift & transfer patients.

Preferred Qualifications

• American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) certification.
• American Medical Technologist (AMT) certification.
• Prior experience in an outpatient healthcare facility.
• Experience with electronic medical records.

Additional Details

• Is essential staff, required to work on snow days.
• May be assigned to specialty clinics as needed.

Will Acquire The Following Qualifications While On The Job

• Understanding of UHS policies & procedures.
• Knowledge of daily clinic and urgent care routine.
• Knowledge of computerized practice management system.
• Knowledge documentation unique to UHS.
• Knowledge of insurance and patient registration.

Additional Skills Required For UHS Procedures And Equipment

• Knowledge of medical records retrieval.
• Skill in ordering supplies from in-house central supply.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in a laboratory or healthcare setting and may involve exposure to chemicals or infectious diseases. Requires standing for extended periods of time and/or use of protective gear.

Work Schedule and Work Arrangement

Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Participates in on-call, after hours, holiday & weekend coverage.

Salary Information

Pay Grade: USA/MTA Grade 13. Click here to view the Classified Step Scale.