Medical Assistant
Position functions as a Medical Assistant in a high volume specialty practice working with multiple providers within the Department of Neurology. Directs the patient flow while in clinic, obtains and records meaningful use discrete data into the electronic health record, assists with procedures and / or patient care equipment / supplies. Ensures the overall smooth running of the clinical and practice office. Demonstrates a high commitment to excellence in service and quality through interactions with team members, Neurology faculty, staff, referring physicians, patients and their families while focusing on service culture and continuously striving to align with the Department of Neurology's mission and vision.
Primary Duties & Responsibilities :
- Interacts directly with patients in clinic setting and completes tasks, which may include obtaining vital signs, completion of EKGs, phlebotomy, and verification of medications. Prepares for office hours by doing tasks such as obtaining charts, scheduling tests, and preparing exam rooms. Assists with examinations, procedures, and lab tests. May assist with renewal and authorization of non-narcotic medications per standing orders and department guidelines. May administer medications under the order of physicians or nurse practitioner (this includes vaccines and IM and subcutaneous injections).
Communication and Documentation :
May schedule and assign work to other Medical Assistants to ensure appropriate staffing; assists in orientating and training new Medical Assistants. Directs patient flow, assists with special procedures / treatments, and completes requisitions. Routes phone messages, patient questions, and telephone communications to appropriate personnel. Assists with care coordination by doing tasks outlined under the department guidelines, such as calling patients with test results, scheduling appointments, assisting physician with return calls; scheduling surgeries, diagnostic procedures, and admissions; and monitoring new and return patient contacts, including scheduling of appointments and follow-up appointments. Completes necessary paperwork and documentation in a timely manner. Answers basic questions from patient / family regarding treatments, diagnosis, and procedures. If order entry in the electronic medical record is part of the job function, completes requisitions / orders per Washington University guidelines.Other Functions :
Maintains required HIPAA compliance, skills / competencies and participates in in-services, staff programs, continuing education, and cross-training programs according to established standards and Washington University policies. Complies with OSHA, state and federal regulatory sources / standards. Participates in quality improvement activities to ensure appropriate clinical outcomes. Performs other duties as assigned.Critical Skills & Expertise :
Interactive communication skills with ability to work with physicians, patients, families, significant others, and support staff. Strong interpersonal, organizational, and telephone skills, working knowledge of anatomy and physiology, fundamentals of medical terminology and experience / knowledge working with electronic medical records.Working Conditions :
Normal office environment.Exposure to blood-borne pathogens.Requires protective devices.Patient care setting.Direct patient care setting.Physical Effort :
Typically sitting at desk or table.Typically standing or walking.Typically bending, crouching, or stooping.Occasional lifting (25 lbs or less).Equipment :
Office equipment.Clinical / diagnostic equipment.