Clinical Assistant 1,2,3

Pay Range: $25.00 - $26.86

About the role

The Clinical Assistant provides care to infants, toddlers, children, adolescents, adults, and elderly in a rural ambulatory care clinic. This position is essential in maintaining efficient clinic operations and patient flow to maximize the provider’s time and to ensure access to care. The Clinical Assistant works closely with providers, giving support such as rooming patients, performing Point of Care testing, answering phones, processing provider orders, data entry, and participation in training processes. Must demonstrate good judgment and be self-starting but works under close supervision of provider.

SEARHC is a non-profit health consortium which serves the health interests of the residents of Southeast Alaska. We see our employees as our strongest assets. It is our priority to further their development and our organization by aiding in their professional advancement. Working at SEARHC is more than a job, it’s a fulfilling career.

Responsibilities

• Prepares for patient visit by reviewing chart for needed forms, follow-up labs or procedures needed.
• Obtains and records age-appropriate vital signs per department protocol, i.e., temperature, height, weight, head circumference, blood pressure, respiration, pulse oximetry, visual acuity testing.
• Obtains medical history update and confirms medications.
• Accurately collects and documents information in patient chart. Keeps patient records in order with all forms properly identified; copies and compiles other medical data as needed.
• Recognizes signs or symptoms requiring prompt intervention and acts appropriately.
• Transports patients within the facility, as needed.
• Demonstrates ability to smoothly manage patient care duties while maintaining clinic flow.
• Reports, and when appropriate, records any changes observed in condition or behavior of patients, unusual incidents, or breaches in safety.
• Observes patients to ensure children, elderly, or impaired patients who require observation or assistance have someone in attendance.
• Sets up equipment and supplies for routine exams and minor procedures.
• Prepares patients for and assists with procedures, treatments, and minor office surgeries.
• Provides specimen collection and Point of Care Testing (POCT). Follows protocol for collecting, labeling, and transporting of specimens.
• With appropriate orders applies heat/cold packs, abdominal binders, anti-embolism stockings, obtains 12 lead EKG, peak flow, applies oxygen.
• Assists patients with ambulation or transfer; performs minor, non-invasive treatments.
• Sanitizes exam rooms between patients. Appropriately processes surgical equipment and ensures sterile package integrity. Maintains a safe and clean environment.
• Ensures exam room supplies are organized and stocked. Maintains lab equipment and organizes lab supplies. Inventory, re-order, and stock medical supplies.
• Disposes of solid/liquid waste and infectious materials according to infection control standards.
• Conducts daily/weekly/monthly QA checks on equipment and maintains logs.
• Demonstrates correct utilization of computer-based health information systems and electronic health record systems. Notifies provider of any repairs/safety concerns that need attention.
• Performs office duties including answering inquiries, assisting staff, visitors, and patients in a friendly and cooperative manner; receives and relays messages; uses proper telephone etiquette. Makes confirmation calls to patients as needed.
• Provides cross-coverage for peers, helping clinics that need assistance to ensure efficient and effective patient flow.
• Attends and participates in at least 50% of area staff meetings annually; applies information presented; participates in unit goal setting; complies with scheduling guidelines.
• Complies with dress code; refers unresolved problems with patients/visitors/co-workers to appropriate Manager; addresses employee concerns consistent with Human Resources Policy.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED – required.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification within 45 days of hire -- required.
• Clinical Competency completed within 3 months and every 3 years -- required.
• Customer service experience.
• Health care experience, education, or training.
• Knowledge of clinic procedures for receiving and following through on a patient visit and any related treatments or procedures.
• Knowledge of age-appropriate vital signs and behaviors.
• Knowledge of HIPAA and SEARHC Policies.

Skills

• Communication and customer service skills.
• Computer application skills sufficient to utilize medical databases competently.
• Ability to operate medical equipment including blood pressure cuff, pulse oximeter, EKG machine, etc.
• Ability to learn and use various EMR systems and accurately record patient data.
• Ability to communicate and interact with all members of the multidisciplinary healthcare team.
• Ability to recognize and respond appropriately in emergency situations.

Other Qualifications

• Employee will begin Clinical Assistant training program within 1 year.
• Complete Clinical Assistant exam within 2 years.

Benefits

• Retirement benefits.
• Paid time off.
• Paid parental leave.
• Health insurance.
• Dental and vision benefits.
• Life insurance.
• Long and short-term disability.

Schedule

Work Shift: OT 8/40