Medical Assistant-Triage

U. S. Digestive Health•Altoona, PA

About The Position

The Medical Assistant-Triage handles patient calls about medical concerns and symptoms, triages issues to the appropriate process, and serves as a liaison and advocate between patients and providers. The role works with providers, physician assistants, patient care staff, and other departments to support continuity of patient care. It performs routine work under general supervision and refers new or unusual questions or concerns to the Director of Clinical Services. Patient, practice, and staff information must be kept strictly confidential. This is classified as Category I, involving occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

Requirements

Medical Assistant certification or an associate degree.
Excellent phone etiquette and communication skills.
Strong people skills.
Ability to deal tactfully and effectively with patients and their families, other employees, and physicians.

Responsibilities

Triage patient calls to the appropriate processor and identify emergency situations.
Act as a liaison between physicians and patients and advocate for patients’ rights, safety, dignity, and wellbeing.
Handle patient calls about medical concerns and symptoms; notify providers of problems and relay providers’ responses to patients.
Clear prescription refills with providers and submit renewals to pharmacies electronically or by phone when necessary.
Manage medication prior authorizations by gathering documentation, forwarding information to patient pharmacy services, and notifying patients of pharmacy decisions.
Instruct patients about procedures and preparation, order diagnostic tests, and ensure patients receive appropriate instructions and documentation.
Under provider supervision, communicate abnormal diagnostic, pathology, and laboratory results to patients who are not returning soon for follow-up.
Maintain accurate documentation of phone conversations in patients’ EMR records and obtain provider sign-off.
Communicate relevant information to providers, the Director of Clinical Services, patient care staff, and other staff to maintain continuity of care.
Coordinate patient referrals to local and tertiary specialists.
Keep patient, practice, and staff information strictly confidential and follow established policies and procedures.
Attend required staff meetings and work cooperatively, flexibly, and supportively with office staff.
Use sound judgment and reasoning to investigate and solve problems, recognize priorities, and tactfully handle difficult situations.
Deal compassionately, professionally, and courteously with patients, families, physicians, and fellow staff.