What are the responsibilities and job description for the Medical Assistant/Patient Service Representative position at Meharry Medical College?
The Medical Assistant/Patient Service Rep., under general supervision and direction, renders patient care in accordance with regulatory, licensing and accreditation standards and provider’s orders. Assists physicians or other providers in preparing patients for examination, treatment and implementing patient care treatment programs; performs related technical tasks that support the provider. Performs front office and other clerical duties.
Daily Operations
- Promptly and courteously rooms patient for examination, obtains patient’s vital signs, chief complaint and brief history and documents accurately in medical record. Prepares exam and treatment rooms with necessary instruments. Administers vaccines, injections and/or medications as ordered by the Provider. Performs medical procedures or assists with procedures to include but not limited to, dressings; hearing and visual testing, and respiratory therapy.
- Performs front office and other clerical duties that include, but are not limited to: answers phones, take and relay messages; greet patients; schedule initial and return appointments; reconciles no-show appointments; confirms appointments within 48 hours of visit time; prepares, pulls, files medical records; obtain patient demographic information and input into computer; check patients out; collect fees from patients; and assists with other clerical functions such as compiling data for reports and records. Adheres to Department policies, procedures, protocols and standards.
- Documents all patient interventions and responses thoroughly in patient’s medical record; tracks laboratory and diagnostic test results; communicates results and orders to patients as directed by the Provider. Conduct patient callbacks as directed by physician. Accurately document patient’s comments and/or progress completely in patient’s medical record.
- Reviews written and verbal instructions, educational materials and procedure consent forms with patient and/or family members. Schedules tests, surgeries and obtains proper authorization and/or precertification. Arranges patient’s follow-up or referral appointment scheduling.
- Disinfects patient rooms after each patient and sterilizes equipment and instruments according to office schedule, procedures and/or manufacturer’s recommendations. Maintains a clean and orderly patient environment (removing soiled linen, disposing of waste, etc.) according to universal precautions and OSHA standards.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
Required Skills
- Demonstrates general understanding and knowledge of front/back office standards, procedures, medical terminology and medical office practices
- Ability to administer vaccinations and give injections.
- Knowledge and capability of documenting in electronic health records.
- Knowledge of examination, diagnostic and treatment room procedures
- Knowledge of medical equipment and instruments to administer patient care
- Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with patients, medical staff and the public
- Ability to handle multiple tasks, independently, under pressure
- Ability to maintain quality control standards
- Ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations
- Ability to interpret, adapt and apply guidelines and procedures
- Ability to operate computer keyboard, terminal and printer, general office equipment, special medical and telephone equipment
Required Education and Experience
High school diploma required. Minimum of two (2) years’ experience as a medical, dental or behavioral health receptionist, insurance processor or a similar position in a medical, dental or behavioral health office, hospital, or other health related facility. Experience with computerized registration and assessments programs; bilingual preferred.
