Orthopedic Medical Assistant

Under the general supervision of the Manager, is responsible for assisting the Physicians and other licensed medical providers with direct patient care, while treating patients in a respectful, confidential, and family-friendly manner. 

Patient Access:

·         Accepts and returns patient calls under the supervision of the nurse or Provider, using appropriate telephone etiquette that leaves the patient feeling his/her questions were addressed in a kind, professional, and helpful manner

·         Schedules appointments and completes orders for patients for appointments, procedures, tests, and/or consultations with other Providers as requested by the Provider

·         Serves as a backup to the Patient Access Coordinator, assisting in all functions as needed to promote efficient office flow

Clinical:

·         Completes Chart Prep as required.

·         Documents patient's chief complaint, medical history and completes pertinent forms

·         Performs Orthopedic related diagnostics such as extremity CSMT (circulation, sensation, motion, temperature), assessments and Doppler pulse checks as appropriate

·         Assists in minor procedures such as suturing and suture removals, dressing changes, casting, immobilization and compression wraps. Practices aseptic and sterile techniques as needed

o   Prepares and administers medications as directed by a Provider utilizing medication safety practices such as the 5 R's of Right Med, Right Dose, Right Patient, Right time, Right Route

o   Provide the patient with educational materials as requested by the Provider.  Instruct patients about medications diet and exercise, and follow up instructions

·         Will be required to provide coverage at all Huggins Hospital Surgical Practices as needed

EMR Utilization:

·         Utilizes the current Electronic Health Record to complete the documented Best Practice Workflows accurately

·         Documents and updates the patient's medical history within the EMR guidelines, including: vital signs, past medical history, social history, surgical history, family medical history

·         Completes the daily work list (order tracking, tasking, document import) providing timely care and response to the patients

·         Compliance in all regulatory item collection

Clinical Support: 

·         Performs pre-visit planning in a manner that optimally prepares the Provider for an efficient appointment

·         Greets patients in a professional, friendly manner, escorting them to exam rooms

·         Prepares/instructs/positions and drapes the patient, leaving the affected area accessible for the Provider to examine

·         Ensures the Provider is on schedule being mindful of emergencies and unexpected interruptions

·         Prepares specimens and documentation for processing or transportation

·         Cares, cleans, and sterilizes equipment per instruction or established procedures

·         Orders medical supplies and medication/immunizations as needed, and keeps exam rooms and bathrooms stocked

·         Disposes of used supplies properly and follows all established infection control and biohazard policies and procedures

·         Calls orders to pharmacies for medications utilizing the prescription refill policy and procedure under the direction and supervision of the Provider

·         Completes and processes referrals, pre-certifications or pre-approvals as needed

·         Prepares the examination room with needed supplies, instruments, and equipment and maintains room in a clean manner
 

Organizational Expectations:

·      Attendance: Attendance is an essential job function; employee comes to work daily, on time, and completes scheduled shift

·      HIPAA: facilitates to maintain patient confidentiality

·      Internal communication: contributes to positive team performance and a culture of service excellence through effective communication, active listening, and respect

·      Interpersonal relationships: maintains appropriate interpersonal relationships with staff, patients, and visitors at all times. Works as a team member with other departments.

·      Safety: Practices workplace safety daily

Employee Engagement:

·         Actively participates in all hospital Service Excellence initiatives and trainings

·         Attends and participates in a minimum of 50% department staff meetings and signs off on review of 100% department staff meeting minutes

·         Completes all required annual education on or before the due date

Knowledge Skills and Abilities:  Individuals must possess these knowledge, skills, and abilities or be able to explain and demonstrate that they can perform the primary functions of the job, with or without a reasonable accommodation, using some combination of skills and abilities and possess the necessary physical requirements, with or without a reasonable accommodation, to safely perform the essential functions of the job.

·     Minimal physical effort required with occasional light lifting to a maximum of 25 pounds; stooping; and pick, pinch, type, or otherwise work primarily with fingers

·     Ability to effectively manage considerable mental stress

·     Ability to express or exchange ideas by means of the spoken word

·     Ability to receive detailed information through oral communication

·     Ability to communicate effectively with co-workers and convey information in a clear, concise and accurate manner

·     Familiarity with computer and other business machines 

Qualifications:

Graduate of approved Medical Assistant Program preferred

One to two years' experience in the medical field unless successful completion of an accredited Medical Assistant Program

BLS required