Position Summary: The Dental Receptionist performs a variety of secretarial and administrative duties and provides a positive customer service experience. The Dental Receptionist works with the team to help provide patients with the highest standards of dental care.

Essential Functions of the Job: [Other duties may be assigned.]

• Greet all patients and visitors who enter the clinic.

• Display professionalism and use a pleasant voice and friendly manner in the office environment.

• Complete all phases of patient intake, starting patient electronic records, documenting chief complaints, screening financial eligibility, and collecting fees according to the sliding fee scale.

• Accurately input patient data into patient record and update as necessary.

• Update and complete necessary financial information to determine eligibility for the clinic, asking patients for insurance card or proof of income, then verifying with financial screening information.

• Assist patients as necessary to complete forms.

• Schedule patient appointments efficiently to maximize availability and keep schedule running smoothly.

• Accurately complete checkout process. Collect and post payments, making any necessary adjustments in the ledger.

• Answer and direct clinic telephone calls. Respond to messages.

• Document patient concerns, complaints, or requests, and inform the director of any requiring additional attention.

• Help to arrange special services for patient visits, including interpreter services and transportation.

• Work with assistants to address schedule changes.

• Make calls to confirm appointments. Send patients emails and text messages about their appointments as needed.

• Maintain strict adherence to HIPAA.

• Assure that all confidential information is secure, locking computer equipment and logging off telephones at the end of the day and any other time the reception area is vacant.

• Verify daily payment collection at the end of the day, identifying the source of any discrepancies. Inform the director of any need for change.

• Collect all cash, checks and credit card receipts and verify weekly deposit report. Deliver all materials to the director. Inform the director of any discrepancies.

• Assume general clerical duties.

• Restock forms and office supplies as needed throughout the clinic. Inform the director of the need for additional forms and office supplies.

• Post signs on clinic entrance, when needed, regarding clinic closing or changed hours.

• Assist with office equipment maintenance, notifying director of any necessary maintenance.

• Provide patients with information on clinic policies and services. Redirect patients to other resources and agencies as needed.

• Collaborate with staff from other departments as needed.

• Assist and work with students and NWTC staff.

• Maintain cleanliness of the clinic reception area.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

• Education - High school diploma
• Experience - Previous employment in an administrative position performing customer service. Previous experience in a clinic setting is preferred, but not required.
• Expertise - Understanding of professional customer service. Training in record maintenance and infection prevention is preferred. Skilled in basic computer operation and programs, and the ability to learn new software.
• Language - Comprehend and use basic language, written and spoken, to professionally communicate information and ideas. Fluency in Spanish is strongly desired.

Preferred Skills

• Ability to display professionalism in a healthcare setting.
• Ability to work well with a diverse population with varied lifestyles.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English and Spanish with patients, clinic staff, students, volunteers, and director. Ability to communicate business messages effectively.
• Ability to navigate a variety of computer programs and learn new software quickly.

Required Credentials, Certification, Licensure

None