Obtaining information for medical staff and storing them properly for later reference is an important task which is currently taken care of by Medical Administrative assistants instead of managerial staff in medical office. With more and more advancements in technology in medical offices, the administrative tasks are getting automated and easier currently.
Job Description
Computer spreadsheets, databases, fax machines, photo copiers are few objects which medical administrative assistants use regularly for completing their day to day work. They could have extra duties based on medical office in which they work.
A huge portion of jobs carried out by Medical Administrative assistants could include discussion with colleagues and clients and communicating with them is important for their work. Collection of medical history and records is also major part of the work done by administrative assistants. Cognition of insurance bill practices and lab procedures is also important for their job.
Eligibility Criteria and Experience
There are various levels ranging from entry level to higher level based on medical office size, number of clients and workers there. If the office is bigger and has lot of clients, then the work load will be high when compared to smaller offices. Usually a high school diploma is required for this job, and they could undergo some certifications if they seek further growth. Though higher education levels are not necessary, they require some basic skill sets such as computer proficiency, good communication skills, faster and accurate typing, good customer management and various other skills.
Job Environment
Usually a medical office or hospital is where the Medical Administrative Assistants work. Usually their work duration ranges around forty hours per week like other employees. Though there are many full-time jobs available, some part-time jobs are also available. Most of them work very close to staff and other colleagues and some work on independent basis.
Remuneration and Benefits
Though salary for such position could differ based on medical office, job location and position, there is very good compensation, health benefits and growth opportunities available. The annual salary could range between 29,000-42,000 dollars as per the statistics from US Labor Department. The salary for entry level candidates will be usually
Job Prospects
Though there is lot of demand for Medical Administrative Assistants, the growth level is very less. Job growth is usually estimated to be an average of eleven percent which offers candidates great potential for career opportunities, advancement and growth. They can reach from entry level to higher levels based on hard work and dedication as well as updating their education level.
Career Process and Training
People who seek the position of Medical Administrative Assistant get various options for training with community college as well as vocational colleges. Medical billing, terminology, transcription, communication skills, insurance and various other skills are important while attending schools which train medical administrative assistants. You should also learn automated medical billing which will be important for your career. The topics covered in training including medical office system, medical billing and coding, medical terminology etc.
The courses can range from 1 to 2 years based on certification type and school which you join. In order to keep growing in their career, they should undergo continuous training and update their skills.