Public Health Office Assistant

Job Title: Public Health Office Assistant Location: Carthage, TN, 37030 Schedule: Full-Time, Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (CST) Duration: 11 months Job Summary The Division of Community Health Services (CHS) is seeking a Dental Public Health Office Assistant to support daily operations within health department dental clinics. This position performs administrative and clerical duties including patient registration, appointment scheduling, check‑in/check‑out, referral coordination, insurance support, and maintaining accurate patient records. The ideal candidate will be customer‑focused, organized, self‑motivated, detail‑oriented, and comfortable working in a team environment. Candidates must be willing to travel throughout the region as needed. Key Responsibilities Schedule and manage patient appointments efficiently. Communicate visit requirements and instructions to patients. Register patients and collect/update demographic information. Review documentation to determine eligibility for state and federal programs. Enter and maintain accurate patient information in the health department management systems. Utilize multiple computer software systems to enter and retrieve information. Manage cash drawer transactions and complete daily balancing procedures. Explain patient rights and responsibilities related to program participation. Obtain required prior authorizations before releasing medical information. Assist with insurance authorization processes by gathering and submitting required documentation. Prepare necessary forms to support efficient clinic operations. Scan and index patient records into electronic dental record systems. Coordinate referrals and follow up with patients as needed. Maintain a positive, professional, and cooperative work environment. Perform other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications High School Diploma or GED equivalent required. Minimum of 2 years of full‑time customer service, clerical, or administrative office experience. Strong customer service and communication skills. Ability to accurately enter and maintain confidential patient information. Proficiency with computer systems and multiple software applications. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Valid driver's license required. Must successfully complete a Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) background check. Preferred Qualifications Active Tennessee Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) license preferred. Dental front office experience preferred. Knowledge of dental terminology, scheduling procedures, and insurance coding. Experience assisting chairside during emergencies or staffing shortages. Work Environment Healthcare/dental clinic setting within a public health department. Requires professional interaction with patients, healthcare staff, and community members. Occasional travel throughout the region may be required. Education & Experience Substitution College coursework from an accredited institution may substitute for required experience on a year-for-year basis, up to a maximum of two years. Position Details Position Title: Dental Public Health Office Assistant Department: Division of Community Health Services (CHS) Employment Type: Full‑Time Hours: Monday‑Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Work Location: Smith County Health Department #J-18808-Ljbffr Spectraforce Technologies