Dental Office Assistant

Public Health Office Assistant

The Tennessee Department of Health, Division of Community Health Services, is seeking a Dental Public Health Office Assistant. The Division of Community Health Services provides public health, primary care, and dental services in local health departments throughout Tennessee.

The Dental Public Health Office Assistant will perform clerical and administrative support tasks for health department dental clinic operations. Responsibilities include patient registration, scheduling, patient check-in and check-out, patient reminder and follow-up calls, referral coordination, records management, and other duties as assigned.

The ideal candidate should be customer-focused, self-motivated, team-oriented, and willing to travel throughout the region as needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Schedule and manage patient appointments.
• Inform patients of any visit requirements.
• Collect and update client demographic information for registration purposes.
• Review documentation to determine eligibility for federal and state programs.
• Input data into health department management information systems.
• Use multiple computer software systems to input and receive information.
• Process and balance the cash drawer to ensure fiscal responsibility.
• Inform clients of their rights and responsibilities for program participation.
• Obtain prior authorization per guidance before releasing medical information.
• Assist with prior authorization from insurers by gathering and submitting documentation before services are rendered, as applicable.
• Compile appropriate forms for requested services to support efficient clinic flow.
• Scan and index records into the electronic dental record.
• Maintain a positive, constructive, and cooperative work environment.
• Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience equivalent to two years of full-time customer service delivery and/or clerical office work.
• Current driver's license required.
• Tennessee Bureau of Investigation background check required.
• Coursework credit from an accredited college or university may substitute for the required experience on a year-for-year basis, up to a maximum of two years. For example, 45 quarter hours may substitute for one year of required experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Active Tennessee Registered Dental Assistant license preferred.
• Dental front office experience preferred.
• Understanding of dental terminology for accurate scheduling and insurance coding preferred.
• Ability to assist chairside during emergencies or staffing shortages is preferred.

Benefits (employee contribution):

• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Flexible spending accounts
• Life insurance
• Retirement plan

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Rate of pay within the stated range will depend on the qualification of the applicant.