Specialty Medical Assistant

Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics•Santa Barbara, CA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Specialty Medical Assistant (SMA) provides clinical and administrative support to specialty providers, including Chiropractors, Acupuncturists, and Podiatrists, within a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) setting. This role supports high-quality, patient-centered care for diverse and underserved populations, ensures efficient clinic flow, and assists with specialty-specific procedures while maintaining compliance with FQHC, HRSA, and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED required
Completion of an accredited Medical Assistant program
Medical Assistant certification (CMA, RMA, or equivalent) preferred or required per state/FQHC policy
Current BLS/CPR certification
Experience working in specialty or outpatient clinical settings preferred
Knowledge of EHR systems and basic computer skills

Nice To Haves

Experience in an FQHC or community health center
Familiarity with chiropractic, acupuncture, or podiatry services
Bilingual (English/Spanish or other prevalent community language)

Responsibilities

Prepare patients for specialty visits by obtaining and documenting vital signs, chief complaints, medical history, and treatment room readiness.
Assist Podiatrists during examinations and procedures according to scope of practice.
Prepare and clean treatment rooms before and after patient visits; ensure proper infection control and OSHA compliance.
Assist with specialty procedures, including but not limited to: Podiatry procedures (nail care, wound preparation, dressing changes, instrument handling).
Perform authorized clinical tasks such as: Wound care, Application of dressings, Performs A1Cs to diabetic patients.
Monitor patients post-procedure and report any adverse reactions to the provider.
Accurately document patient interactions, treatments, and clinical data in the electronic health record (EHR).
Ensure specialty templates and referrals are completed, scanned, and properly routed.
Assist providers with chart preparation and closure following visits.
Educate patients on treatment plans, after-visit instructions, and home care as directed by the provider.
Coordinate specialty referrals, follow-up appointments, and diagnostic testing.
Assists in communicating with primary care, behavioral health, and enabling services to support integrated care.
Maintain specialty clinic schedules and support patient flow.
Manage inventory, supplies, and specialty equipment; restock and request supplies as needed.
Assist with prior authorizations, referrals, and durable medical equipment (DME) documentation when applicable.
Ensure compliance with HRSA, Joint Commission (if applicable), and FQHC policies.
Maintain patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA regulations.
Follow infection control, workplace safety, and quality improvement standards.
Participate in team meetings, trainings, and continuous quality improvement initiatives.