Medical Assistant III - Neurosurgery

Position Summary

May lead the work of Medical Assistants in the clinical operation of a patient care setting; may lead the work of Medical Assistants I and II, and/or acts as the primary clinical resource in a large multi-physician clinical practice. Functions as a Medical Assistant in the department, prepares and maintains exam rooms, prepares charts, obtains reports and records; directs patient flow and ensures the overall smooth running of the clinical office.

Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

Patient Care Duties:

• Interacts directly with patients in clinic setting and completes tasks, which may include obtaining vital signs, conducting EKGs, completing a phlebotomy and verifying 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 intramuscular 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.
• May complete requisitions/orders per WashU guidelines.

Equipment and Supplies:

• Monitors supply inventory, ensuring adequate supplies, equipment or garments are available and that they comply with regulations.
• Cleans and stocks exam rooms and sterilizes instruments.

Other Functions

• Maintains required HIPAA compliance; maintains skills/competencies and participates in in-services, staff programs, continuing education and cross-training programs according to established standards and WashU 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.

Working Conditions:

Job Location/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.