Medical Assistant

Appalachian Regional Healthcare, Inc.•Hinton, WV

About The Position

The Medical Assistant supports clinic operations by providing patient care and administrative services. The role is responsible for efficient and courteous patient registration, transfer, and discharge; compiling medical information for patient records and statistical reports; and maintaining accurate patient accounts. It also performs a range of patient care activities and services to support patients’ comfort and well-being in accordance with physicians’ orders. Clinical duties include collecting vital signs and specimens, assisting with examinations and procedures, administering medications as directed, providing specified patient care, maintaining examination rooms and equipment, supporting patient education, and responding appropriately to emergencies. Administrative duties include registration, insurance and billing support, account inquiries and payments, appointment scheduling as needed, communications, documentation, and preparation of reports and correspondence. The position also maintains clinic cleanliness, safety, and efficient patient flow and performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

High School Diploma required.
If not certified, three (3) to six (6) months of on-the-job training is required to attain proficiency in assigned duties and responsibilities.
Ability to obtain patient histories and vital signs to assist providers with patient examinations and treatment.
Ability to prepare and maintain examination and treatment areas.
Ability to perform selected clinical tests that assist in patient diagnosis and treatment.
Ability to monitor, screen, and follow up on patient test results.
Ability to prepare and administer medications as directed by a physician.
Ability to maintain accurate medication and patient records.
Knowledge of clinical procedures, patient care practices, and medical office operations.
Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to maintain patient confidentiality and comply with healthcare regulations.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Nice To Haves

Graduate of a Medical Assistant Training Program preferred.
Medical Assistant certification from an accredited program preferred.

Responsibilities

Performs basic patient care procedures as required.
Participates in conferences and serves on committees as requested.
Participates in patient and family education activities as appropriate.
Prepares for and assists with diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.
Obtains and records vital signs, height, and weight.
Performs catheterizations and provides catheter care.
Administers oral and intramuscular medications in accordance with established policies and procedures.
Provides care for patients receiving oxygen therapy.
Applies sterile and non-sterile dressings, compresses, and bandages.
Performs urine testing, including testing for sugar, acetone, and pH.
Assists healthcare providers with physical examinations.
Applies ace bandages and hot and/or cold compresses as directed.
Collects laboratory specimens, including blood, urine, stool, and sputum; may perform venipunctures and EKGs as needed.
Maintains cleanliness, safety, and efficiency throughout the clinic.
Recognizes and responds appropriately in emergency situations.
Prepares used equipment for re-sterilization and proper processing.
Maintains knowledge of legal and regulatory reporting requirements and ensures compliance with reporting obligations.
Accompanies and transports patients to ancillary departments such as Laboratory and Radiology as needed.
Cleans, stocks, and prepares examination rooms for patient care.
Manages time effectively to promote efficient patient flow.
Assists with minor outpatient surgical procedures.
Greets patients courteously, identifies patient needs, and provides assistance as appropriate.
Registers patients by completing required registration procedures, including preparation of records, reports, notices, charge slips, and insurance information.
Interviews patients, family members, or responsible parties to obtain financial and insurance information and refers unusual situations to appropriate supervisory personnel.
Assists self-pay patients with establishing payment arrangements when appropriate.
Responds to patient account inquiries and provides information regarding insurance benefits and coverage.
Receives payments, issues receipts, and maintains accurate accounting of funds received.
Posts charges and payments to patient accounts accurately and timely.
Determines appropriate billing methods for third-party payors.
Contacts insurance carriers and agencies to obtain required pre-certifications for procedures, admissions, and ancillary services.
Operates office equipment including copiers, fax machines, and other assigned equipment.
Utilizes communication systems to place and receive telephone calls, page staff, and relay information.
May schedule and maintain appointments for clinic providers.
Obtains required signatures and processes documentation related to the release of patient information in accordance with organizational policies and procedures.
Contacts patients, providers, and third parties to obtain information necessary for insurance claims and billing processes.
Prepares memos, correspondence, and other written documents as needed.
Compiles periodic reports, statistical data, and other information as requested.
Performs other duties as assigned.