Psychiatric Services Medical Assistant

Northwest Human Services is a non-profit leader in providing advocacy, quality healthcare and social services in Marion and Polk counties since 1970.  We are a mission focused organization providing compassionate and professional medical, dental, psychiatry, mental health, and wraparound services for those in our community who need it most - uninsured individuals, families, the homeless, and migrant workers.  As a Community Health Center we value a culture of equity, diverse perspectives, and life experiences. Our organization embraces innovation, collaboration, and work-life harmony.

Psychiatric Services Medical Assistant

Location: West Salem Clinic - Medical

Job Status: Full-Time, 40 hrs/wk, Monday – Friday with rotating Saturdays

YOUR ROLE:

The Psychiatric Services Care Team Medical Assistant is an active member of the “care team” and is primarily responsible for assisting patients throughout the routine visit in an outpatient psychiatric services setting.  The Psychiatric Services Care Team Medical Assistant contributes to maintaining the patient’s health record through careful, accurate and complete performance of tasks and documentation of elements under their responsibility. Responsibilities include embracing the Patient Centered Primary Care Home (PCPCH) model by keeping the patient at the focus and center of their care.  The model is achieved by heling the patient to navigate the flow and care of services during the routine office visit, facilitating communication between multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive mental health and medical services.

SPECIFIC DUTIES:

• Actively participates as an integral and valued member of the Care Team by engaging in the teamwork model by seeking opportunities to assist and support the care team workflow throughout the day. Consistently communicates effectively in a professional manner with clients, staff, and providers. Communicates with empathy/compassion while using appropriate language when speaking with clients. Facilitates effective communication between psychiatric services and medical care teams ensuring optimum care.

• Reviews the electronic medical record EMR) and scrubs for metabolic monitoring compliance for identified psychiatric patients depending on prescribed medications. If indicated point of care testing for hemoglobin A1C and lipid profile is done prior to seeing provider. Coordinates care with PCP when needed, including scheduling follow up appointments.

• Huddles throughout the day with provider and communicates bi-directionally with the Reception and Care Team regarding the patient’s arrival and appointment times. Welcomes and escorts client to the office treatment room. Initially assesses and prepares the client for the provider. Reviews, confirms and updates the client’s information in the EMR including demographic data, verification of the patient’s preferred pharmacy, allergies, smoking status, and measurements of vital signs, weight and height.

• Demonstrates strong critical thinking skills, is able to maintain composure during challenging events, is able to deescalate clients and can problem solve effectively.

• Maintains strict patient confidentiality, HIPAA regulations are strictly followed. Ensures patient privacy at all times while in the clinic.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Education & training in a Medical Assistant/Nursing/Medical program that includes pharmacology/administration of medications coursework.
• One-year of experience in a medical clinic setting required.
• Experience with patients in a psychiatric setting preferred but not required.
• Has a current Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers (BLS) training certificate consistent with AHA Guidelines for CPR/ECC, and covers breathing and cardiac emergencies - including CPR, AED, and obstructed airway - for adult, child, and infant patients.
• Ability to work well in a group setting.

• Knowledge and ability to perform patient care duties as assigned.
• Ability to communicate and interact with all areas of the clinic.
• Ability to deal with the public efficiently, courteously, politely, and effectively.
• Ability to work flexible hours.
• Bilingual in English/Spanish preferred,
• Ability to work with diverse cultures and lifestyles.
• Valid Oregon driver license and proof of automobile insurance.

Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the qualifications as described in a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and qualifications for the role.

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS: Our Agency strives to provide a benefits program that is comprehensive and competitive within our industry.

• Competitive Salary
• Full Comprehensive Health Plans: Medical with two plan options
• Dental & Vision options
• Flex Spending Account
• Group Life: Short-Term & Long-Term Disability 100% paid by employer
• 403(b) retirement plan with 3% employer match
• PTO - 10 hours a month for FT positions @ 40 hrs./wk.
• 7½ paid holidays each year 2 paid floating holidays for FT positions
• Continuing Education & Training Benefits
• Employee Healthy Living Program – Gym Membership & Smoking Cessation

Northwest Human Services sites are eligible for various Provider Incentive Programs through the Oregon Office of Rural Health and National Health Service Corps loan repayment and scholar programs as well as the Rural Practitioner Tax Cred. For more information check out the Office of Rural Health, National health Service Corps, and Public Service Loan Forgiveness websites. NWHS sites have a Primary Care HPSA Score of 18, Dental score of 19, and a Mental Health score of 22.

TO APPLY:

If you are interested in joining a team that makes a difference in the lives of many, apply online at: Employment (northwesthumanservices.org)

For more information, contact the HR/Recruiting Department at: HR@nwhumanservices.org | 503.588.5828

All candidates who receive a written offer of employment will be required to undergo a criminal records check.

Equal Opportunity Employer | We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

                                            Community | Compassion | Commitment | Integrity

Working together to empower individual to improve their health, well-being, and safety.