Medical Assistant I in Lawrence , Massachusetts at Merrimack Health

The Medical Assistant will assist providers in the care and treatment of patients, including administrative support, while promoting a smooth flow of patients through the office and helping to create a calm, supportive atmosphere. The Medical Assistant must demonstrate competency in all skills related to the performance of patient care within their scope of practice and according to organizational policies, accrediting and licensing bodies.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Communicates with all patients and families in person or via telephone, including greeting, identifying self by name and role and retrieving and returning phone calls in a timely manner.
• Follows telephone screening guidelines for answering the phone; identifies the patient's health problem or concern and directs calls. Triages the patient's phone calls and takes appropriate action.
• Schedules patient appointments and referrals demonstrating understanding of scheduling guidelines and patient needs. The reason for the appointment is clearly documented. Documents all patient interactions accurately and in a timely manner
• Responsible for rooming patients and preparing treatment rooms for examination, including stocking and cleaning. Cleans and prepares instruments for sterilization. Properly manage sharp containers, including replacing, packaging, transporting and discarding full containers.
• Interviews patients in the exam room, obtains and documents information relevant to patient care and medication management, and obtains accurate BP, apical pulse, respiratory rate, pulse oximetry, and temperature measurements. Generates intake and records basic information about presenting and previous conditions.
• Assists the provider by preparing patients for physical examinations, assists with procedures, and collects and labels specimens ordered by the provider.
• Scans appropriate information into the patient’s medical record and performs basic chart scrubbing prior to the visit. Reviews preventative measures are up-to-date; mammograms, colonoscopies, etc.
• Uses software (EMR, e-mail, registries, portal, etc.) following established protocols for documentation, responding to requests, and initiating appropriate tests and orders.
• Maintains clinical proficiency in practice specific competencies. Demonstrates proficiency in clinical skills in practice. Performs job specific requirements and other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND RELATED EXPERIENCE:

Required:

• High School diploma or GED.
• Demonstrated MA competencies or equivalent MA experience gained through any of the following: MA Certificate, Associates degree in Medical Assisting, CNA (or LNA), EMT, PCT certificate, or Graduate of an accredited Medical Assistant Program.
• Demonstrated strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work well as a member of a team.

Preferred:

• Previous experience in an ambulatory or specialty practice setting.
• Computer skills.
• Bi-Lingual speaking, Spanish and English.