Certified Medical Assistant

SUMMARY: The Withdrawal Management Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) works under the supervision of the licensed medical professional (LMP). Daily tasks are delegated and guided by the on-duty Registered Nurse (RN) to provide direct patient care in a medically managed withdrawal management setting. The CMA is responsible for patient monitoring, administering medications as ordered, assisting with admissions and discharges, and ensuring a safe, clean, and supportive environment for all patients.


ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS:

• Perform vital signs, ECG, blood spot collection, and injections as ordered by LMP.
• Perform and document patient monitoring activities as directed by the RN, including taking vital signs, observing and reporting any changes in patient condition immediately to the RN.
• Assist with the admission and discharge process, including patient orientation, property inventory, and preparing patients for the next level of care. Respond to patient needs, provide support, and assist with activities of daily living as required.
• In limited situations, administer scheduled medication as prescribed by the LMP and directed by the RN, strictly adhering to the "6 Rights" of medication administration, facility protocols, and applicable Oregon state regulations.
• Collaborate closely with RNs, LMPs, counselors, alcohol and drug technicians, counselors, and site support to ensure coordinated and effective patient care. Provide clear and concise verbal and written shift reports to oncoming team.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and therapeutic environment on the unit, which could include bed changes and laundry. Conduct patient safety checks and searches as directed.
• Recognize and initiate appropriate response to crisis or medical emergency situations including activating emergency protocols and performing basic life support as needed.
• Maintain accurate, timely and thorough documentation in the electronic health record (EHR) for all patient interactions, vital signs, medication administration, and observations.
• Consistent attendance and punctuality are required of this position.
• Restock medical supplies and assist in inventory management.
• Perform front office administrative duties including management of supply inventory, prompt and friendly answering of telephone calls, greeting patients and excellent customer service.

• Achieve outcomes using methods that align with CODA's mission and values:

• Communicate accurately and positively about recovery and the use of evidence-based treatments.
• Use data and science to identify barriers, overcome obstacles, and inform decisions.
• Be financially responsible; avoid waste, document accurately, seek new opportunities to serve.
• Demonstrate compassion and respect for others.

SECONDARY RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS:

• Coordinate care in the form of requesting of medical records from outside providers for relevant care.
• Maintain equipment (e.g. ECG, vital sign cart) by following operating instructions, troubleshooting breakdowns, maintaining supplies, performing preventive maintenance, and calling for repairs.
• Assist with inventory management of medical supplies, linens, and unit necessities
• Participate in staff meetings, in-service trainings, and quality improvement activities
• Cover for another position during an absence or assist with a shared team responsibility.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Preferred: High school diploma or GED certificate.
• Minimum two years of experience in an ambulatory care outpatient, primary care, or urgent care environment.

COMPETENCIES AND SKILLS:

• Patient Care that is compassionate, appropriate, and effective for treating substance use disorders and promoting health.
• Interpersonal and communication skills that result in effective information exchange and teaming with patients, their families, and other health professionals.
• Professionalism, as manifested through a commitment to carrying out professional responsibilities, adherence to ethical principles, and sensitivity to a diverse patient population
• Ability to work well with a multidisciplinary treatment team.
• Demonstrated consistency in the application of "6 Rights" of medication administration.
• Demonstrated understanding of and ability to adhere to established principles of patient safety.
• Basic knowledge of substance use disorders, management and evaluation of substance use withdrawal syndromes, and treatment principles OR the ability to show proficiency in these areas within six months of hire.
• Ability to utilize both oral and written communications skills to effectively communicate with patients, co-workers, community resources, supervisors, and various other individuals encountered in the course of performing work while maintaining patient confidentiality and establishing professional rapport.
• Ability to maintain professional communications and boundaries while managing complex situations and interacting with individuals diagnosed with substance use or co-occurring conditions.
• Ability to operate a computer, utilize basic MS Office programs, and effectively navigate and maintain patient records in an electronic medical records system.

REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES:

• Certified Medical Assistant from an accredited CMA program.
• Crisis prevention training completion within 90 days of hire.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification or ability to acquire within 30 days of hire.
• May need a current Oregon or Washington driver's license if required to drive.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS :

• Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle if required to drive.
• Must be able to occasionally lift up to 25 lbs.
• Must be able to perform BLS for 15 minutes continuously and maintain BLS certification.
• Must be able to utilize personal protective equipment and follow safety procedures while interacting directly with patients and working in a clinical environment, including handling of laboratory specimens.
• Must be able to operate a personal computer, including reading from a computer monitor, keyboarding, and using a mouse.
• Must be able to negotiate staircase, reach, bend, and handle objects

OTHER REQUIREMENTS :

• A negative result on all pre-employment, reasonable suspicion, and post accident drug screens .
• An acceptable criminal record as determined by DHS, the Oregon Administrative Rules, and the Oregon Revised Statutes; and no current supervised parole or probation.
• An acceptable driving record and insurance coverage as recommended by CODA's automobile insurance provider if required to drive.