Medical Support Assistant

SUMMARY: The Medical Support Assistant provides administrative and clerical support at the patient check-in and reception desk. Responsibilities include greeting and checking in patients, verifying, and updating patient demographic and insurance information in the Electronic Health Record EHS/RPMS system, scheduling appointments, answering and directing incoming telephone calls, and assisting patients with registration and general inquiries – ensure patients are received in a courteous and professional manner and that registration information is accurate and up to date.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES and/or RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:

• Conduct patient interviews to initiate new health records or reactivate retired health records.

• Verify patient eligibility for healthcare services by collecting appropriate documentation, such as Tribal enrollment cards, birth certificates, marriage licenses, and legal documents for name changes
• Enter patient information accurately into the RPMS Patient Registration System.
• Ensure patients complete necessary forms for registration and obtain signatures.
• Obtain and verify health insurance eligibility information for patients using Medicaid, Medicare, and private/commercial insurance portals at every encounter.
• Collect and scan photocopies of the patient health insurance cards.
• Answer incoming phone calls, check in visitors/patients, and/or direct them to the appropriate services.
• Schedule appointments using the scheduling package, maximizing provider availability and reducing waiting times.
• Maintains HIPAA, Privacy Act, and Medical Confidentiality regulations.
• Coordinate and refers patients who may be eligible for third-party resources (Medicaid, Medicare, TANF, SSI, Veterans Benefits, etc.) with Patient Benefits Coordinator(s) using RPMS page 5.
• Maintains strict confidentiality in all matters concerned with the Health Center.

• Performs other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each duty satisfactorily. The 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 duties.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or GED
• At least one (1) year of experience working in the Health Care environment preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and/or ABILITIES:

• Working knowledge of medical terminology.
• Knowledge of clinic operations, appointment scheduling, and the services offered by each clinic to ensure patients are directed appropriately and delays are minimized.
• Ability to obtain, verify, enter, and update patient demographic and insurance information accurately in the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency in electronic health records, data entry, word processing, and general office applications.
• Ability to gather and verify patient information through effective interviewing and communication techniques.
• Understanding of patient registration procedures, Health Information Management processes, and the importance of maintaining accurate patient records.
• Knowledge of the Privacy Act of 1974 and the importance of protecting confidential information and patient privacy.
• Knowledge of third-party resources, including Medicaid, Medicare, Veterans Benefits, TANF, and SSI, and the ability to direct patient inquiries appropriately.
• Strong telephone etiquette, customer service, and communication skills, including the ability to handle challenging patient interactions professionally.
• Ability to organize and prioritize tasks, maintain accuracy, and manage multiple responsibilities in a busy clinic environment.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and as part of a healthcare team.

PLEASE NOTE: P.L. 93-638, Indian Preference and Tribal Employment rights Ordinance. (T.E.R.O) will be practiced; however, all qualified applicants will be considered.