Medical Assistant

Job Summary

The Medical Assistant (MA) position provides clinical and administrative support in an outpatient behavioral health setting. Rooms patients, records vital signs, assists with evaluations, and monitors for behavioral concerns. Manages scheduling, follow-ups, phone communication, and EHR documentation. Coordinates referrals, prepares patients for telehealth, and maintains exam rooms, supplies, and equipment. 

Essential Duties

Greet and room patients in a timely and respectful manner.
Measure and record vital signs, weight, and height.
Assist providers during psychiatric evaluations when necessary.
Support patients with mobility or communication challenges.
Monitor patients for signs of distress or behavioral escalation and notify clinical staff as needed.
Schedule appointments and manage follow-ups.
Manage electronic health records (EHR): update patient charts, enter clinical notes, and scan/upload documents.
Handle phone calls, messages, and patient inquiries with sensitivity and confidentiality.
Coordinate referrals and prior authorizations as needed.
Maintain exam rooms and ensure cleanliness and organization.
Restock supplies and ensure all equipment is functional.
Support telehealth visits by prepping patients and ensuring technology readiness.

Minimum Qualifications Required

High School diploma or equivalent required. 
Prior experience in mental health, behavioral health, or outpatient psychiatric settings is highly desirable.
Experience with Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems.

Licenses and Certifications:
Minimum Requirement: Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) 
Preferred: Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Basic knowledge of medical terminology and procedures.
Knowledge of basic pharmacology and specifically psychopharmacology (expected actions, side effects, and contraindications).
Knowledge of routine clinical tasks such as taking vital signs, drawing blood, and performing EKGs.
Knowledge of universal precautions, sterilization techniques, and proper disposal of biohazard materials.
Basic knowledge of medical billing and coding procedures.
Knowledge of the principles of documentation.
Skilled in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, or substance use.
Ability to handle exposure to and work with emotionally intense or distressed patients.
Ability to administer CPR and basic first aid.
Ability to effectively work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, or substance use.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a busy clinic environment
Ability to maintain timely and accurate records.
Ability to use all standard medical and office equipment. 
Ability to recognize and maintain confidentiality of all matters related to client care.
Ability to understand and carry out policies and procedures governing client care.
Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
Ability to establish and maintain effective interpersonal working relationships with staff and the public.
Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
Ability to work the required hours of the position.
Ability to complete the essential duties of the position.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Lifting 30 pounds maximum with frequent lifting and/or carrying of objects weighing up to 20 pounds.
Extended periods of standing, walking, and sitting.
Using hand(s) for single grasping, fine manipulation, pushing and pulling and operating controls.
Frequent bending, twisting, squatting, climbing and reaching; occasional grappling and swimming. 
Communicating orally in a clear manner.
Distinguishing sounds at various frequencies and volumes.
Distinguishing people or objects at varied distances under a variety of light conditions.
Must be free from communicable disease.