Public Health Office Assistant

Job Title : Public Health Office Assistant
Location: Carthage, TN,37030
Schedule: Full-Time, Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (CST)
Duration: 11 months

Job Summary
The Division of Community Health Services (CHS) is seeking a Dental Public Health Office Assistant to support daily operations within health department dental clinics. This position performs administrative and clerical duties including patient registration, appointment scheduling, check-in/check-out, referral coordination, insurance support, and maintaining accurate patient records.
The ideal candidate will be customer-focused, organized, self-motivated, detail-oriented, and comfortable working in a team environment. Candidates must be willing to travel throughout the region as needed. Key Responsibilities

• Schedule and manage patient appointments efficiently.
• Communicate visit requirements and instructions to patients.
• Register patients and collect/update demographic information.
• Review documentation to determine eligibility for state and federal programs.
• Enter and maintain accurate patient information in health department management systems.
• Utilize multiple computer software systems to enter and retrieve information.
• Manage cash drawer transactions and complete daily balancing procedures.
• Explain patient rights and responsibilities related to program participation.
• Obtain required prior authorizations before releasing medical information.
• Assist with insurance authorization processes by gathering and submitting required documentation.
• Prepare necessary forms to support efficient clinic operations.
• Scan and index patient records into electronic dental record systems.
• Coordinate referrals and follow up with patients as needed.
• Maintain a positive, professional, and cooperative work environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent required.
• Minimum of 2 years of full-time customer service, clerical, or administrative office experience.
• Strong customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to accurately enter and maintain confidential patient information.
• Proficiency with computer systems and multiple software applications.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Must successfully complete a Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) background check.

Preferred Qualifications

• Active Tennessee Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) license preferred.
• Dental front office experience preferred.
• Knowledge of dental terminology, scheduling procedures, and insurance coding.
• Experience assisting chairside during emergencies or staffing shortages.

Work Environment

• Healthcare/dental clinic setting within a public health department.
• Requires professional interaction with patients, healthcare staff, and community members.
• Occasional travel throughout the region may be required.

Education & Experience Substitution

• College coursework from an accredited institution may substitute for required experience on a year-for-year basis, up to a maximum of two years.

Position Details

• Position Title: Dental Public Health Office Assistant
• Department: Division of Community Health Services (CHS)
• Employment Type: Full-Time
• Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
• Work Location: Smith County Health Department