Medical Assistant

Howard University; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 26,174 - 30,307; Full time

Job summary

Howard University is seeking a motivated Medical Assistant to support Physicians in providing patient care. Key responsibilities include preparing patients for exams, assisting in medical procedures, and maintaining a sterile environment.

The ideal candidate should hold an Associate's degree in Medical Technology, Nursing, or a related field and possess a certification as a Medical Technologist. The role demands strong communication skills and the ability to follow established procedures.

Qualifications

• Associate's degree in Medical Technology, Nursing, or related field, or two years' experience in a physician's office, clinic, or hospital.
• Certification or Registration as a Medical Technologist is also required.

Responsibilities

• Prepares patients for medical appointments, including obtaining and recording patients' vital signs.
• Assists Physicians with examinations and medical procedures.
• Cleans, disinfects, and sterilizes materials, instruments, equipment, rooms, and supplies.

Skills

Knowledge of examination, diagnostic, and treatment room procedures

Knowledge of Medical Terminology

Skill in taking vital signs

Skill in maintaining records and recording test results

Ability to maintain quality control standards

Education

Associate's degree in Medical Technology, Nursing, or related field

Job description

Medical Assistant

Under the supervision of the Practice Office Manager/Supervisor, the Medical Assistant assists the Physicians in the care and treatment of patients and is responsible for the maintenance of examination rooms, medical/surgical supplies, and equipment.

Involves no responsibility or authority for the direction of others.

External contacts include a variety of third-party payers, medical organizations, patients, and other healthcare personnel.

Principal Responsibilities:

• Prepares patients for medical appointments, including obtaining and recording patients' vital signs.
• Prepares instruments and equipment for use in examinations and/or medical/surgical procedures.
• Assists Physicians with examinations and medical procedures.
• Clean and dress wounds, remove sutures as requested by a Physician.
• Observes patients and reports adverse reactions to medication or treatment to medical personnel in charge.
• Collect samples, taken by a physician for testing, and deliver them to the laboratory.
• Cleans, disinfects, and sterilizes materials, instruments, equipment, rooms, and supplies.
• Inventories and requisitions supplies.
• Reviews patient charts for instructions regarding prescriptions, tests, follow-up appointments, and/or patient testing procedures.
• Schedules patients for follow-up testing procedures.
• Obtains pre-certification/authorization for surgical procedures, admissions, etc.
• Assist in locating and filing records.
• Retrieves lab reports, dictations, x-rays, and correspondence. Files and maintains orderly records.
• Provides patient education and instruction as directed by the Physician. Makes decisions and judgments on phone calls, answering questions, and advising patients with Physician guidelines. Instructs the patient in preparation for procedures and in-home care, using instruction sheets when applicable.
• Answers telephone, takes messages, and gives routine information in accordance with established procedures.
• Maintains knowledge of and complies with established policies and procedures.
• Maintains work area in a neat and orderly manner.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Core Competencies:

• Knowledge of examination, diagnostic, and treatment room procedures.
• Knowledge of Medical Terminology.
• Knowledgeable in the use of CPT and ICD-9 code reference books.
• Knowledge of common safety hazards and precautions to maintain a safe work environment.
• Demonstrated skill in oral and written communications, as well as the ability to speak clearly.
• Skill in assisting in a variety of treatments and medications as directed.
• Skill in taking vital signs.
• Skill in maintaining records and recording test results.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with patients, medical staff, and the public.
• Ability to be detail-oriented, follow established priorities or procedures, and deliver quality customer service.
• Ability to use good judgment, make sound decisions, and behave with tact, decorum, and diplomacy.
• Ability to maintain quality control standards.
• Ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
• Ability to read, understand, and respond to oral and written instructions.

Minimum Requirements:

• Associate's degree in Medical Technology, Nursing, or related field, or two (2) years related experience in a physician's office, clinic, and/or hospital, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Certification or Registration as a Medical Technologist is also required.

Expected Pay Range: $19/hr - $22/hr