The palliative medicine certified medical assistant (CMA) improves the quality of life of patients with a serious illness by providing triage support, education and ongoing communication with patients and providers to ensure the patient receives the right care at the right time. Also, by reviewing and approving all new referrals to the program in a timely manner. Completes all medication refills and prior authorizations. The palliative medicine certified medical assistant is a champion for hospice care and ensures timely hospice referrals.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide quality, patient-centered care to all palliative care patients using the nursing process and standards of nursing practice with sensitivity and respect for the diversity of the human experience
• Expedites appropriate care and treatment, using critical reasoning and astute clinical judgment
• Assesses, triages and provides CMA consultation, then appropriate follow-up using telecommunication technology
• Applies appropriate interventions, such as identifying and clarifying palliative medicine patient needs, providing education and promoting patient advocacy
• Facilitates continuity of care, interdisciplinary team collaboration and coordination of and access to hospice care when appropriate, serving as a persuasive advocate for the right care at the right time
• Maximizes palliative medicine program productivity by focusing on program goals, purpose and priorities.
• Serve as an active member of the palliative medicine interdisciplinary team
• Provide direct patient care within the CMA scope of practice and organization policies and procedures, when requested
• Document assessment, interventions and outcomes utilizing the electronic medical record at point of care
• Foster a trusting and reliable relationship with patient/family
• Ensure high patient and provider satisfaction
• Other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of computer systems and software used
• Knowledge of laws, rules and regulations; standards and guidelines of accrediting bodies; organization policies and procedures
• Knowledge of medical and professional nursing ethics and privacy rights
• Knowledge of medical terminology, illness and disease management, medication management
• Demonstrated skills in teaching, educating, problem-solving and critical thinking
• Demonstrated skills in communication and effective interaction with others
• Ability to anticipate, assess, plan for and manage physical, psychosocial and quality of life needs of the patent and family, and provide appropriate support, comfort and reassurance
• Ability to work with patients/families regardless of race, color, creed, age or sexual orientation. Must respect their beliefs and philosophy with an attitude of openness and receptiveness.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, if needed

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

• High School Diploma

Experience:

• Two years of hospice experience

Licensures & Certifications: (if applicable):

• Certified Medical Assistant certificate
• CPR certification

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Visual acuity to read chart and physicians’ orders
• Ability to sit, stand and walk for extended periods of time
• Manual dexterity to establish IV sites, manipulate tubing and other patient care supplies
• Ability to lift and support and average of 150 pounds with assistance
• Ability to push/pull, and bend frequently
• Ability to squat, kneel, climb and balance

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must have an automobile with required insurance coverage and state driver’s license