Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)/Surgical Scheduler

We are seeking an experienced Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) to join our dynamic colorectal surgery practice. The CMA will play a vital role in assisting physicians with patient care, conducting administrative duties, and maintaining a smooth workflow in a busy medical office. This position requires strong clinical skills, a compassionate demeanor, excellent communication abilities, and a proven ability to adapt to the fast-paced nature of a colorectal surgery practice. The CMA will assist with a variety of procedures and patient care duties while ensuring a high standard of customer service and patient satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities:

Clinical Duties:

• Patient Care:

  • Prepare and assist patients for colorectal exams and procedures, ensuring the patient's comfort and addressing any concerns.

  • Take patient histories, vital signs, and document medical information accurately.

  • Assist the physician during minor surgical procedures and other treatments.

  • Educate patients on procedures, pre- and post-surgical care, and lifestyle modifications (e.g., diet and exercise).

  • Prepare and sterilize equipment and instruments for procedures and exams.

Administrative and Clerical Duties:

• EPIC Experience & Documentation:

  • Use the EPIC electronic health record (EHR) system to accurately document patient histories, vitals, and other pertinent data.

  • Schedule patient appointments, surgeries, and follow-up visits in EPIC.

  • Manage patient records, ensuring that all data is up-to-date, accurate, and compliant with HIPAA regulations.

  • Process insurance verifications and obtain authorizations for procedures.

• Communication:

  • Answer and triage patient phone calls, providing information or directing inquiries to the appropriate staff members.

  • Provide clear, empathetic communication to patients, especially when delivering sensitive or difficult information.

  • Ensure that patient inquiries are responded to promptly and follow up on referrals or lab results.

  • Coordinate with other medical professionals and staff to ensure proper scheduling, follow-ups, and care continuity.

• Inventory Management:

  • Assist with the ordering and maintenance of medical supplies and equipment.

  • Ensure proper stock levels of medical supplies, medications, and other materials required for patient care.

Customer Service & Patient Experience:

• Patient Interaction:

  • Greet patients with professionalism, empathy, and respect to create a welcoming and comfortable environment.

  • Ensure the patient experience is smooth, including addressing concerns, minimizing wait times, and explaining procedures as necessary.

  • Maintain high standards of confidentiality and ethical practice when dealing with patient information and interactions.

• Emotional Maturity & Professionalism:

  • Demonstrate strong emotional maturity in handling difficult or sensitive patient situations, such as when patients express fear, anxiety, or frustration about their condition.

  • Stay composed in high-pressure situations and manage multiple tasks with efficiency and a positive attitude.

  • Exhibit a strong work ethic by consistently arriving on time, maintaining focus, and ensuring tasks are completed efficiently.

• Team Collaboration:

  • Work closely with physicians, other medical assistants, nursing staff, and office personnel to ensure seamless operations.

  • Display flexibility and adaptability, understanding the needs of the practice and jumping in to assist in various areas as needed.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Certification:

  • Current certification as a Medical Assistant (CMA) from an accredited program (e.g., AAMA).

• Experience:

  • Previous experience working in a clinical setting, preferably in a surgical or colorectal surgery practice.

  • EPIC Experience: Proficiency with the EPIC electronic health record system is required, including experience with patient charting, appointment scheduling, and prescription management.

  • Experience assisting with minor procedures, patient preparation, and patient education.

• Technical Skills:

  • Strong knowledge of medical terminology, especially related to colorectal conditions and surgeries.

  • Proficiency in basic clinical skills.

  • Ability to perform diagnostic tests and understand results, especially those related to colorectal health (e.g., lab tests, stool samples).

• Customer Service & Interpersonal Skills:

  • Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain medical terms and procedures to patients in a compassionate manner.

  • Demonstrated ability to remain calm and empathetic under pressure, particularly when dealing with emotional or distressed patients.

  • Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with patients, colleagues, and medical staff.

• Personal Characteristics:

  • A strong work ethic, with a commitment to punctuality, attention to detail, and consistently providing high-quality patient care.

  • High emotional maturity, able to handle sensitive situations with empathy and professionalism.

  • Flexibility to work in a fast-paced environment, managing a variety of duties with precision and care.

  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in colorectal or gastrointestinal surgery settings.

• BLS/CPR Certification (or ability to obtain within a certain timeframe).

• Experience with surgical instrument sterilization and handling.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and move medical supplies and equipment (up to 25 lbs).

• Ability to stand for extended periods, assist patients in positioning, and perform other physical tasks related to patient care.

• Regular bending, reaching, and assisting patients with mobility when necessary.