MEDICAL OFFICE ASSISTANT - FRONT DESK - ONCOLOGY

Toledo Clinic•Maumee, OH

About The Position

The Medical Office Assistant supports the operation of an oncology office by performing clerical and front-desk duties. The role supports the Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) by working with patients, families, providers, and staff to promote timely access to care, coordinate continuity of care, and help patients and caregivers understand care plans and self-management responsibilities. The assistant welcomes patients and families, handles forms and registration information, collects copayments, manages incoming calls and messages, processes mail and information requests, and uses computer systems to support billing. Additional duties include maintaining the waiting area, assisting with reception and office tasks, preparing return-to-work slips, and scheduling appointments and procedures as directed. The position requires professional, respectful, and confidential handling of patient information; effective communication and teamwork; adaptability; and the ability to organize and prioritize work in a busy environment with interruptions and pressure.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least one year of experience as a receptionist in a healthcare setting.
Experience with office equipment.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and electronic medical records (EMRs).
Ability to excel amid constant change, problems, unexpected interruptions, and pressure to deliver results.
Ability to organize and prioritize tasks effectively.
Ability to read, understand, and follow oral and written instructions.
Ability to communicate clearly in person, by phone, and via computer, and establish and maintain cooperative relationships with patients, families, physicians, staff, and other customers.
Knowledge of computer systems and applications.
Skill in using office equipment and handling paperwork and filing.
Customer service skills to help create a pleasant waiting-room atmosphere.

Nice To Haves

Post-high-school education in office operations.
Customer service training.
At least one year of experience as a medical office receptionist in a healthcare setting.

Responsibilities

Greet patients and families politely and promptly, provide directions or instructions, and supply and review forms for completion and accuracy.
Ensure HIPAA forms are completed, enter patient information into the computer, verify or update insurance and address information, and notify office personnel of patient arrivals through the computer system.
Collect copayments, prepare receipts, update schedules with copay information, and assist with reconciling and balancing receipts as needed.
Make change from petty cash, maintain documentation, process receipts, and ensure petty cash receipts are reconciled and signed by a second person not involved in collecting the money.
Process incoming phone calls, document messages appropriately using the EMR when appropriate, and scan information into the EMR when appropriate.
Process mail and ensure information requests are handled promptly and according to policy, including Medicare letters and record requests from insurance companies and law firms.
Use the computer system to generate billing information, including printing schedules and charge tickets.
Maintain a clean and orderly waiting area, including the beverage area and reading materials.
Assist with photocopying, computer input and typing, and scheduling laboratory or radiology work as directed.
Prepare return-to-work slips as required by the office.
Assist with scheduling follow-up appointments, procedures, second opinions, and laboratory and radiology procedures as needed.
Communicate effectively in writing and verbally, use assertive communication to address concerns, and participate in committees as requested.
Work effectively as a team member and participate in organizational activities that enhance patient care and the work environment.
Maintain the confidentiality of personally identifiable health information and limit disclosures to the minimum necessary; obtain written patient authorization for disclosures outside payment, treatment, or healthcare operations.
Demonstrate sensitivity to the cultural diversity of patients, staff, and visitors.
Arrive on time in professional attire, complete tasks within established time frames, seek additional tasks when primary duties are complete, assist coworkers, and adapt to expanded roles.
Perform other duties as assigned.