Medical Assistant

Medical Assistant

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 basis 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 intra-muscular medications. Cares for patient 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, hot and/or cold compresses. Collects specimens, blood, urine, stool, and sputum. May do venipunctures and EKGs as needed. Maintains cleanliness, safety and efficiency in the clinic. Alert to and able to respond appropriately in an emergency situation. Prepares used equipment for re-sterilization. Knows legal requirements for reporting to police, health department, and other agencies and follows requirements. Accompanies or transfers patients to other departments such as lab or x-ray. Cleans and stocks examination rooms. Manages time in order to expedite patient flow. Assists with minor out-patient surgery. Greets patients courteously, determines their needs, and offers assistance. Registers patients by performing necessary procedures, such as preparation of records, reports, notices, service charge slips, and payor information. Interviews patients, relatives, or others responsible to determine payment arrangements and refers unusual cases to immediate supervisor. May assist self-pay patients in making suitable arrangements for balances due beyond initial deposits or third party payments. Answers inquiries to patient accounts and advises patient on insurance benefits. Receives all payments and deposits, issues receipts for all monies received and otherwise makes proper accounting for all funds received. Posts charges daily to proper patient account. Posts payments to accounts daily. Determines billing method for third party payor. Contacts insurance carriers/agencies to obtain precertification of ancillary, admission and surgical procedures. Operates various office equipment to include copiers, fax machines and other equipment as assigned. Operates communication systems, placing and answering telephone calls, paging or contacting staff. May make and maintain appointment schedules for clinic physicians. May secure required signatures on reports and records relative to release of information, according to policies and procedures. Contacts patients, physicians, or others for information necessary to properly complete insurance or other type billings. Types memos, correspondence, etc., as needed. Compiles periodic and statistical reports and other data as directed.

Qualifications

Education (experience can be substituted for education) High School Diploma Required Graduate of Medical Assistant Training Program Preferred

Work Experience (education can be substituted for experience) Up to 1 year Three (3) to six (6) months on-the-job training as required to attain proficiency of assigned duties and responsibilities if not certified. Required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Obtain patient history and take vital signs to assist physician with examination and treatment. Prepare and maintain examination and treatment area. Perform selected tests that assist with diagnosis and treatment. Screen and follow-up patient test results. Prepare and administer medications as directed by physician and maintain medication records.