Medical Assistant (Non-Certified)

Description

General Summary of Duties: Assist in the delivery of primary health care and patient care management. Perform a variety of patient care activities to assist providers.

Supervision Received: Reports to Practice Manager or Back Office Supervisor.

Supervision Exercised: None

Typical Physical Demands: Requires full range of body motion including handling and lifting patients, manual and finger dexterity and eye-hand coordination. Position involves standing and walking for extensive periods of time. Occasionally required to lift and carry items weighing up to 50 pounds. Requires corrected vision to normal range, 20/40 or better and corrected hearing to normal range. Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced clinical environment. May require flexibility to work irregular hours. May be exposed to communicable diseases and/or bodily fluids.

Typical Working Conditions: Frequent exposure to communicable diseases, toxic substances, medicinal preparations and other conditions common to a clinic environment.

Primary Duties/Responsibilities Include but are not limited to:

Patient Intake and Flow

1. Greet patients and prepare them for examinations, ensuring accurate patient flow through the office
2. Escort patients to exam rooms and assist with patient flow throughout the visit
3. Obtain and document patient histories, chief complaints, and vital signs (blood pressure, temperature, height, weight)
4. Maintain excellent customer service skills in dealings with patients, coworkers, and the public.

Clinical Support and Patient Care

1. Assist providers with examinations and minor procedures under appropriate supervision
2. Perform basic patient care tasks under supervision
3. Assist with triage, scheduling of tests, and minor treatments
4. Review and administer medications, injections, and immunizations/vaccinations as directed by a provider 
5. Apply splints and dressings as directed by the provider
6. Perform electrocardiograms (EKGs) using proper electrode placement techniques
7. Prepare, collect, handle, and forward specimens to appropriate laboratories for testing
8. Use proper techniques for all testing performed on site
9. Properly use medical equipment and supplies in the performance of duties

Exam Room Preparation and Equipment Management

1. Prepare and organize exam rooms, instruments, and supplies for examinations and testing
2. Maintain sterile fields and use aseptic techniques as required
3. Check expiration dates on medications and medical supplies

Documentation, EMR, and Care Coordination

1. Enter, update, and maintain accurate patient information in the electronic medical record (EMR), including tracking results and updating care plans per provider orders
2. Respond to incoming telephone calls and relay or refer messages appropriately (including provider directed medication and treatment instruction)
3. Instruct patients and family members on medication and treatment instructions as directed by the provider
4. Coordinate and support patient referrals in accordance with established protocols

Safety, Compliance and Confidentiality

1. Maintain patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA regulations
2. Follow OSHA standards, including proper use of safety equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE), and safe handling and disposal of biohazardous materials
3. Demonstrate general knowledge of HIPAA, OSHA, and medical terminology

Administrative and General Support

1. Perform filing, scanning, and general office duties as assigned
2. Perform related duties and other responsibilities as required
3. Other duties as assigned

Requirements

Knowledge of the principles and skills needed to provide quality patient care. Basic knowledge of medications, exams, diagnostics, and treatment room procedures. Knowledge of medical equipment and instruments to administer patient care. Knowledge of common safety hazards and precautions to establish a safe work environment. Skill in reviewing a variety of treatments and medications as directed. Skill in taking vital signs. Skill in maintaining records and test results. Skill in developing and maintaining site quality assurance. Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with patients, medical staff, and the public. Ability to maintain quality control standards. Ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations. Ability to interpret, adapt and apply guidelines and procedures. Ability to read, understand and respond to detailed oral and written instructions. Ability to communicate clearly. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment. Professional, compassionate, and patient-focused attitude.

Education:  

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Completion of a medical assistant accredited training program (certification not required)

Experience:  

• One or more years of hands-on experience with a broad knowledge and understanding of practices and procedures performed in a clinical setting.
• Proficiency in medical terminology, EHR software. Epic EHR experience preferred

Certificate/License:  

• CPR certification preferred (must acquire and then maintain to continue employment)
• Medical Assistant Certification (must acquire a year after employment and then maintain to continue employment)

Alternative to Minimum Qualifications: None