Medical Assistant

Job Description

Job Description

Medical Assistant – Methadone Treatment Clinic

Outpatient Opioid Treatment Program (OTP)

Position Overview

The Medical Assistant supports daily clinical operations within an outpatient Opioid Treatment Program (OTP). This position plays a critical role in ensuring safe medication workflows, accurate clinical documentation, and respectful, patient-centered care for individuals receiving methadone and related services. The Medical Assistant collaborates closely with nursing staff, medical providers, counselors, and administrative personnel to maintain a compliant, efficient, and supportive clinical environment in accordance with federal, state, and regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities

Patient Intake and Clinical Support

• Obtain and document vital signs and collect blood samples as required
• Verify patient identity and update medical histories in the electronic medical record (EMR)
• Obtain and coordinate external medical records to support continuity of care
• Prepare patients for provider and nursing evaluations

Medication Dispensing Support

• Maintain cleanliness, organization, and safety within the dosing area
• Adhere strictly to all medication safety and clinic protocols

Clinical Documentation and EMR Management

• Accurately enter and maintain patient information within EMR systems
• Ensure compliance with HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, and federal OTP documentation requirements
• Maintain confidentiality and data integrity at all times

Specimen Collection and Laboratory Coordination

• Perform urine drug screens following established chain-of-custody procedures
• Print laboratory requisitions and create new patient laboratory accounts as needed
• Coordinate specimen handling in accordance with clinic and laboratory standards

Patient Education and Engagement

• Reinforce clinic policies, dosing schedules, and general health guidance as directed by medical, nursing, or clinical staff
• Support patient understanding of treatment processes in a professional and respectful manner

Multidisciplinary Team Coordination

• Communicate effectively with nurses, counselors, providers, and administrative staff
• Support continuity of care and timely clinical operations

Safety, Compliance, and Regulatory Adherence

• Follow all applicable DEA, SAMHSA, New York State, and OTP regulatory requirements
• Promptly report safety, compliance, or workflow concerns to supervisory staff

Operational and Frontline Support

• Assist with patient flow, appointment reminders, and general clinic operations
• Maintain a calm, organized, and efficient clinical environment

Provider and Administrative Support

• Assist providers with prior authorizations and coordination with pharmacies
• Communicate appointment information to patients
• Schedule in-person and telehealth appointments as directed

Required Qualifications

• Current New York State Medical Assistant Certification
• Current Phlebotomy Certification
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in a clinical or healthcare setting
• Experience with electronic medical records (EMR) systems
• Knowledge of HIPAA and patient confidentiality standards

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in substance use treatment, behavioral health, or opioid treatment programs
• Familiarity with federal and state OTP regulations
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Physical and Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive clinical tasks
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, regulated clinical environment