Medical Assistant

INTRODUCTION:

Central Neighborhood Health Foundation is a Federally Qualified Healthcare Center (FQHC) committed to the Triple Aim as described by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement. Improving the US health care system requires simultaneous pursuit of three aims: 1) improving the experience of care, 2) improving the health of populations, and 3) reducing per capita costs of health care. Preconditions for this include the enrollment of an identified population, a commitment to universality for its members, and the existence of an organization (an "integrator") that accepts responsibility for all three aims for that population.

SUMMARY:


The Medical Assistant performs routine (noninvasive) patient care functions as described by license health care personnel following established clinical protocols, policies and procedures within defined scope of education, training and responsibilities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include but are not limited to the following functions:

• Collects and records patient data including height, weight, BMI, temperature, pulse, respiration rate and blood pressure, pulse oximeter and peak flow measurement according to established policies and procedures.
• Applies warm or cold compresses.
• Collects urine, sputum and stool specimens by noninvasive techniques.
• Administers immunizations and medications per provider's order after a licensed healthcare professional verifies the correct medication and dosage. Verification of competency is required.
• Performs venipuncture to obtain blood specimens.
• Performs simple lab tests, including urine pregnancy tests and finger sticks after appropriate training and verification of competency.
• Shaves and prepares the patients skins with antiseptic solution and explains the procedure as necessary.
• Performs PPD skin test placement after appropriate training and verification of competency. Documents measurement of PPD skin test and reports information directly to the provider or to a registered nurse.
• Demonstrates the ability to perform initial health data collection procedures, including vision and audiometric testing.
• Handles hazardous waste appropriately.
• Changes needle disposal box as needed.
• Applies principles of aseptic technique and infection control per policy and procedures.
• Consistently uses and reinforces proper body mechanics and appropriate personnel protection equipment.
• Provides basic health information and education to patients using established protocols.
• Works with patients on self-management goal contracts as per disease protocol and provider direction.
• Performs routine clerical functions as assigned (i.e. make appointments, chart management, telephone calls, etc.).
• Takes and routes phone calls timely and efficiently.
• Schedules routine and follow up appointments.
• Contacts no-sow patients as directed.
• Completes routine form and logs and inputs program specific data into computerized system according to established procedure as required.
• Operates a computerized patient scheduling system according to organizational policies and procedures. Collaborates with providers to assure appropriate scheduling.
• Implements guidelines to properly schedule patients calling in for appointments.
• Participates in the follow up and monitoring of patient care services, including (but not limited) checking medical records for completeness of data, documentation of services, completion and mailing of disability forms, verification of hospital of delivery and mailing of prenatal records, relaying telephone messages to staff personnel and directing patients throughout the clinic as needed.
• Accurately files all patients' labs, x-ray, EKG results and other documents after the provider has seen and signed off the information.
• Maintains a clean, neat and safe environment for office operations. Completes forms for Patient Assistance programs.
• Assists in quality improvement activities as directed.
• Assists medical personnel with procedures and/or diagnostic exams.
• Positions and drapes patient appropriately.
• Informs patient which provider will see him/her and approximate time it will take before patient is seen.
• Adjusts lighting as necessary.
• Assembles appropriate equipment.
• Assures patient privacy at all times.
• Be available to assist provider as needed.
• Maintains set-up for collection of all cultures and timely transport to the lab.
• Accurately perform visual, hearing testing.
• Notifies supervisor of repair needs and potential hazards in the workplace.
• Keeps patient exam rooms and work areas clean and stocked.
• Documents pertinent patient information, procedures and patient responses, following established guidelines.
• A record shall be made in the patient chart or other record of each technical supportive service performed by the medical assistant, indicating clearly the name, title "MA-medical assistant", date and time.
• Implements proper documentation immediately after all tasks.
• Handles requests for information timely and appropriately; make sure that the provider has been aware of such request.
• Maintain confidentiality at all times.
• Discuss patient information only with appropriate clinic personnel when related to the care being provided.
• Maintains confidentiality for all documents that contain patient identifier information.
• Information given to a medical assistant about patient or family member clinical needs must be reported to the patient provider.
• Observe and respect confidentiality of information in regards to fellow employees.
• Assist in the maintenance, care and handling of medical equipment.
• Maintains standard of cleanliness, organization and adequate level of supplies for the exam rooms or assigned work area.
• Demonstrates correct and safe techniques in the use of equipment according to specific manufacturer instructions and policy and procedure manual.
• Know location, purpose and use of all equipment and supplies.
• Ensures that the delivery of services reflects the efficient and effective use of supplies and appropriate utilization of resources.
• Orders supplies as directed and report any outdates to the appropriate person.
• After competency training may perform autoclaving of supplies and instruments following manufacturer guidelines and established clinic procedures.
• Reports malfunctioning equipment to the manager.
• Follows appropriate procedure for cleaning of equipment.
• Participate in organizational programs/committees as assigned
• Participates in assigned staff and other meetings, including quality improvement, case conferences and in-service meetings.
• Participates in all safety programs that may include assignment to an emergency response team.
• Participates in hazardous waste and infection control assignments as required in the health center that may include being designated as an emergency responder to a hazardous substance release or spill; performing infection control data.
• Performs other duties and tasks as may be required or assigned.
• Teamwork and Interpersonal Skills.
• Recognizes the needs of others and acts in the best interest of others.
• Demonstrates courtesy, mutual respect and compassion in dealing with others.
• Initiates and presents positive solutions to problems.
• Acknowledges and respects differences when they exist and find ways to communicate more effectively.
• Demonstrates adaptability to changes in a positive and professional manner.
• Maintains positive working relationships and fosters a cooperative work environment.
• Demonstrates effective working relations and works effectively as part of the team to facilitate the organization ability to meet goals and objectives.
• Demonstrates the willingness to accommodate requirements or changing priorities in the workplace.
• Maintain current knowledge; promote self-development and the advancement of knowledge and skills.
• Attends and participates in weekly/bi-weekly/monthly staff meetings.
• Attends educational programs and shares knowledge with peers.
• Incorporates on the job training into job skills.
• Learns new computer software skills as required.
• Learns to operate equipment to problem solve malfunctions.
• Responsibility and accountability for adherence to organizational and department standards and policy.
• Observes department guidelines concerning absences and reports absences in accordance with departmental procedures.
• Self identifies potentially unsafe systems/processes/situations and takes initiative to report to the supervisor.
• Observes department guidelines to conduct personal business during breaks and lunch hour.
• Observes department guidelines to limit personal phone use and does not use the phone for personal out of area calls.
• Projects a positive professional image and adheres to organizational dress code.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:


To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

• Completion of an accredited Medical Assistance certification program.
• Knowledge and experience with Electronic Medical Records.
• Minimum of one year working in the healthcare field.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with patients and other external parties in a courteous and friendly manner at all times.
• Superior customer service skills.

NECESSARY SKILLS:

• Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information.
• Ability to communicate effectively on the telephone.
• Ability to relate to persons with diverse educational, socioeconomic and ethnic
  backgrounds.
• Ability to handle a call center environment; work quickly and multi-task.
• Ability to exercise good judgment to handle calls appropriately.
• Ability to demonstrate good customer service.
• Bi-lingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently, collaboratively, and possess strong time management skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

WORK ENVIRONMENT


Described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Variations in conditions may occur under certain circumstances.

CONFIDENTIALITY


Maintains patient, employee, and Foundation confidentiality at all times, discussing patient or employee business only with appropriate parties who have a bona fide need to know; and communicating only the minimum amount of information necessary with respect to protected health information (PHI) as defined by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA).

1. AGREEMENT AND ACCEPTANCE
2. I HAVE READ THE ABOVE JOB DESCRIPTION AND FULLY UNDERSTAND THE REQUIREMENTS SET FORTH AND WILL PERFORM ALL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES TO THE BEST OF MY ABILITY.

Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 4:30 pm