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.