Medical Assistant in Ashburnham, Massachusetts at Cushing Academy

The Medical Assistant (MA) provides professional health care to students and coordinates ongoing health care with allied health care professionals. The Medical Assistant serves as a vital member of the health services team, providing both clinical and administrative support. The MA bridges the gap between front-office coordination and back-office clinical care. This role is designed to optimize the School Nurse’s and School Provider’s time by handling rooming, diagnostic screenings, laboratory tasks, and medical record compliance.

• Applies appropriate theory from nursing and associated areas to meet and uphold the school's mission statement
• Student Intake & Triage: Prepare students for evaluation by obtaining vital signs (BP, pulse, temp, O2 saturation), recording height/weight, and documenting the "chief complaint" in the Electronic Health Record (EHR).
• Specimen Collection & Lab Work: Perform point-of-care testing, including rapid strep, influenza, COVID-19, Mono, wound cultures, pregnancy, drug testing, and urinalysis. Conduct phlebotomy (blood draws) as ordered by the School Providers.
• Clinical Procedures: Assist providers with minor procedures (e.g., wound care, suture removal, splinting). Perform EKGs and vision/hearing screenings for sports clearances.
• Medication Administration: Under the delegation of the RN and in compliance with 105 CMR 210.000, assist in the administration of daily and "as needed" (PRN) over-the-counter medications to students.
• Supply Management: Maintain clinical exam rooms, ensuring they are stocked, sanitized, and that all medical equipment is calibrated and functional.

• Health Record Management: Audit student health files to ensure 100% compliance with Massachusetts immunization requirements and physical exam mandates.
• Insurance & Referrals: Coordinate off-campus specialist appointments, manage medication prior authorizations, and facilitate communication with parents and external pharmacies.
• EHR Navigation: Maintain accurate, real-time documentation in the school's health database (e.g., SNAP).
• Positively represent Skills to Succeed.
  • Uphold Cushing Academy values.
  • Understand and follow through with Cushing Academy systems and protocols.
  • Follow agency policies and procedures.
  • Communicate positively and clearly with your supervisor and coworkers.
  • Meet established timelines and deadlines.
  • Maintain satisfactory attendance at work shifts, staff meetings, and other assigned functions.
  • Complete needed training by established deadlines.
  • Maximize and responsibly utilize agency and community resources.
  • Complete duties assigned by supervisor or designee

Qualifications & Requirements

• Certification: Graduate of an accredited Medical Assistant program; CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT) preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 2 years in pediatrics, family medicine, or urgent care. Previous experience in a school setting is a plus.
• Skills:
  • Proficiency in phlebotomy and EKG.
  • Strong interpersonal skills for communicating with teenagers, parents, and faculty.
  • Ability to remain calm and efficient during high-volume "sick call" hours.
  • Strong computer skills, including use of standard Office programs
• Compliance: Must an acceptable CORI/SORI/DCF and Fingerprint background check. Current CPR/AED for Healthcare Providers certification required.

Physical Demands

• Occasionally lifts up to 20 pounds.
• Generally, works in standard office conditions and climate.
• Works in a moderately stressful environment, dealing with a wide variety of challenges and deadlines, and a varied and diverse array of contacts.
• May work at a desk and computer for extended periods of time.
• Ability to stand for extended periods during clinic hours.
• Ability to assist students with limited mobility or escort students across campus if necessary.