Certified Medical Assistant/Front Desk

COWLITZ INDIAN TRIBE • Vancouver, WA

9d • $27 - $31 • Onsite

About The Position

Serves as a compassionate and supportive presence for patients undergoing treatment for opioid use disorder. Combines front-line administrative support with patient care responsibilities, helping patients access essential services while contributing to a respectful, team-based clinical environment focused on empathy, respect, and patient-centered values. Adheres to HIPAA and confidentiality requirements. Honors and represents the mission, vision, and values of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe and of the HHS department.

Requirements

• An active Certified Medical Assistant (MA-C) credential in Washington State is required.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• One (1) year of office or professional experience.
• A combination of relevant education and related work experience may be considered.
• Must be able to provide health and TB clearance.
• A valid driver’s license is required when driving vehicles for work-related purposes.
• Must be able to successfully pass a background screening/investigation.
• Knowledge of basic medical terminology preferred.
• Knowledge of patient registration and healthcare front office preferred.
• Knowledge of policies and procedures related to HIPAA, Medicare, Medicaid, and insurance programs.
• Knowledge of office functions, procedures, and policies.
• Skill in operating various word-processing, spreadsheet, and database software programs in a Windows environment, including electronic health care systems.
• Skill in data entry with a high level of accuracy.
• Ability to react to frequent changes in duties and volume of work.
• Ability to demonstrate a customer–first attitude and philosophy.
• Ability to listen empathetically.
• Ability to maintain quality, safety, and/or infection control standards.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team environment.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain professional relationships with individuals of varying social and cultural backgrounds and with co-workers at all levels.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to conduct activity ethically.
• Ability to analyze and evaluate situations and adopt effective courses of action.
• Ability to follow Cowlitz OTP personnel policies.
• Ability to maintain passion for assisting patients under all circumstances.
• Ability to receive constructive feedback, to share opinions, and uphold beliefs.
• Ability to remain calm, focused, professional, and kind in highly stressful situations.
• Ability to be reliable, flexible, and versatile.
• Ability to maintain humility.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of traditional form of government and tribal customs and traditions.

Responsibilities

• Serves as the face of the clinic to all patients and visitors, in the role of receptionist.
• Answers calls politely and professionally; refers calls to appropriate staff or takes messages; sets or clears call forwarding when necessary; checks for messages with the "on-call" person or answering machine each morning.
• Performs clerical, receptionist, and communication functions for the clinic as required.
• Conducts patient registration functions, including entering referral data, income verification, and insurance data, and ensuring data remains up to date over time.
• Schedules new and returning patients with appropriate staff; maintains schedule book accurately; and records patient attendance, "no-shows," and cancellations.
• Participates in staff meetings and collaborates with other administrative staff as required.
• Maintains a professional and congenial attitude toward coworkers, patients, agencies, and members in the community.
• Uses appropriate technology to accomplish job functions; understands and utilizes available technology such as customer service, communication, and data-gathering tools.
• Manages inventory of office supplies; alerts Clinic Director to supply needs and orders supplies with authorization.
• Assists patients enrolling in Medi-Cal.
• Develops and works with agencies and service providers to facilitate coordination and information sharing; provides support services as applicable.
• Provides transportation support, housing referrals, and PCP and specialty care coordination.
• Serves as Emergency Room liaison.
• Coordinates with jail and probation officials.
• Participates in health fairs, community events, and other events where the target population gathers.
• Maintains a calendar of outreach activities, including community events, workshops, appearances, and other communication opportunities.
• Establishes and maintains positive working relationships with current and potential referral sources.
• Maintains comprehensive working knowledge of community resources and assists patients in accessing community resources.
• Develops, creates, and maintains a resource file of available social service agencies and assistance providers in the target area for use in referring customers for needed services.
• Collects body fluid samples for patients being admitted to treatment.
• Administers TB, pregnancy, and breath alcohol tests to appropriate patients.
• Labels urine test bottles and prepares specimens for mailing or courier pick-up; re-orders supplies when shipment is depleted.
• Upholds commitment to respectful patient- and family-centered care.
• Upholds patient confidentiality and safety.
• Serves as an advocate for patients and families.
• Communicates and collaborates effectively with physicians/team members, patients, and families.
• Works effectively with multidisciplinary team members.
• Promotes mutual respect and trust working within a team model.
• Follows ethical principles regarding patient confidentiality.
• Maintains and practices confidentiality as required by HIPAA regulations regarding client confidentiality and request/release of information.
• Adapts to changes in safety protocols and procedures.
• Contributes to a team effort and accomplishes related results as required.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Tribal preference in accordance with the Cowlitz Indian Tribe Code and CIT Employee Policies and Procedures Handbook shall apply to all positions.
• All positions are required to adhere to CIT’s established safety policies regarding vaccine requirements and personal protective equipment (PPE).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED