Front Desk Associate

Job purpose

The front desk associate is the initial contact person for patients when they enter the medical office. The front desk associate greets patients, schedules appointments, collects co-payments, inputs data into the computer and helps run, organize and maintain the front desk. This position requires excellent customer service skills, a background as a medical assistant, as well as the ability to multitask and stay organized.

Duties and responsibilities

• Greets, welcomes and directs incoming patients and visitors to the proper areas
• Keeps the flow of patients moving smoothly and maintains a neat work area
• Answers the phone professionally and politely, using proper phone etiquette
• Collects and verifies patient demographic and insurance information
• Facilitates patient flow and notifies clinical staff members of patients’ arrivals
• Communicates with current and prospective patients, visitors and clinical staff by responding to inquiries in a courteous manner
• Protects patient confidentiality by securing protected health information and complying with HIPAA guidelines
• Schedules patients for appointments and informs patients of costs of care being provided.
• Collects and posts fees according to protocols, prepares and balances daily batches for Billing Department.
• Maintains forms and office supplies required for front desk activities.
• Assures the readiness of the front desk area for each working day
• Uses computer to accurately input all information provided by the patient
• Demonstrates a responsible attitude and the ability to establish and maintain a cooperative relationship with co-workers.
• Has regular and predictable attendance
• Adheres to APC policies and procedures
• Performs other duties as assigned

Qualifications

Education: Requires a high school diploma or GED

Experience: Previous office administration work experience. Medical Assistant experience required. Knowledge of medical terminology and basic computer skills preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work with people, including those dealing with an illness or in pain
• Skilled in handling incoming phone calls and operating office equipment
• Skilled in handling paperwork adequately
• Knowledge of medical terminology and insurance practices
• Knowledge of basic arithmetic to make calculations, balance and reconcile figures
• Ability to organize and prioritize tasks effectively
• Ability to flexibly respond to changing demands and maintain professionalis

Working conditions

Environmental Conditions: Medical Office environment

Physical Conditions:

• Must be able to work as scheduled – typically from 8:00 – 5:00 M-F
• Must be able to sit and/or stand for prolonged periods of time
• Must be able to bend, stoop and stretch
• Must be able to lift and move boxes and other items weighing up to 30 pounds.
• Requires eye-hand coordination and manual dexterity sufficient to operate office equipment, etc.