Medical Assistant Apprentice

Job Description

Job Description

Established in 1980, the Greater Lawrence Family Health Center (GLFHC) is a multi-site mission-driven non-profit organization employing over 700 staff whose primary focus is providing the highest quality patient care to residents throughout the Merrimack Valley. Nationally recognized as a leader in community medicine (family practice, pediatrics, internal medicine, and geriatrics). GLFHC has clinical sites throughout the service area and is the sponsoring organization for the Lawrence Family Medicine Residency program.

GLFHC is seeking a motivated and compassionate Medical Assistant Apprentice to join our team. This position works under the direct supervision of the assigned provider and MA Supervisor and is also supported by assigned MA Preceptor. The Medical Assistant Apprentice, while working through standard competency assessments, will assist clinicians and clinical staff in providing medical care, as well as implementing and evaluating direct patient care. The Medical Assistant Apprentice must have received didactic and clinical instruction on skills after participating in performing skills. This position utilizes specialized knowledge, judgement, and skills to provide an excellent patient experience.

Clinical Support

• Prepare patients for examinations and treatments by completing health screenings and documenting vital signs, symptoms, chief complaints, and pain assessments.
• Assist providers during examinations and minor in-office procedures under direct supervision.
• Perform clinical duties including:
  • Blood pressure measurements
  • Pulse and respiratory rate documentation
  • Temperature collection
  • Ear irrigations
  • EKGs
• Observe and report changes in patient condition to the provider or preceptor.
• Serve as a patient chaperone when appropriate.
• Follow universal precautions and infection control standards at all times.

Patient Care Coordination

• Coordinate patient care activities including:
  • Referrals
  • Prior authorizations
  • Pre-certifications
  • Prescription requests
  • Scheduling appointments, tests, and procedures
• Support communication of test results to patients under preceptor supervision.
• Assist in maintaining patient flow and ensuring efficient clinic operations.

Administrative Support

• Manage and maintain accurate patient records and documentation.
• Collect and organize medical information, including labs, hospital records, imaging reports, authorizations, and previous treatment records.
• Ensure timely completion of documentation required for billing and reimbursement processes.
• Communicate effectively with patients, providers, healthcare organizations, and community agencies.

Environmental & Equipment Maintenance

• Maintain clean, safe, and organized examination rooms and clinical areas.
• Clean and disinfect medical equipment according to established protocols.
• Follow OSHA guidelines and manufacturer recommendations for equipment and hazardous materials handling.
• Perform basic equipment maintenance and report repair needs promptly.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification.
• Must be eligible for the MassEducate and MassReconnect programs.
• Currently enrolled in and actively attending the Medical Assistant Apprenticeship Program through Northern Essex Community College and Greater Lawrence Family Health Center.
• Knowledge of insurance verification, managed care processes, electronic medical records (EMR), and scheduling software preferred.
• Bilingual English/Spanish strongly preferred due to the patient population served.

GLFHC offers a great working environment, comprehensive benefit package, growth opportunities and tuition reimbursement.