Medical Assistant

About the role

The Mental Health Medical Assistant plays a vital role in supporting Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP) by performing essential clinical and administrative tasks that enhance client care. This position requires working with clients facing mental health challenges, necessitating strong communication skills, empathy, professionalism, and a commitment to confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Welcome and room clients, fostering a calm and therapeutic environment.
• Obtain vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, weight) and update screening questionnaires (PHQ-9, GAD-7, TAPS, etc.).
• Assist with medication reconciliation and verify allergies.
• Track and follow up on labs, diagnostic tests, and referrals; promptly alert providers to urgent results.
• Support providers during patient encounters as needed (e.g., obtaining collateral information).
• Recognize and appropriately escalate urgent mental health concerns and safety risks.
• Maintain clean, safe, and organized client care areas.
• Review and triage telephone calls to psychiatrists/PMHNPs, addressing client questions from their medical records.
• Assist with prior authorizations.
• Coordinate care with community resources, primary care, and pharmacies (updating H&Ps, discharge summaries, etc.).
• Promote a respectful, trauma-informed care experience.
• Ensure strict HIPAA compliance and uphold client privacy.
• Participate in team meetings and quality improvement initiatives.

Requirements

• High School Diploma.
• Medical Assistant certification or equivalent experience.
• Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and empathy.
• Comfort in working with individuals experiencing mental health crises or distress.
• Proficiency with EMR systems and basic office technology.
• Familiarity with psychiatric medications and safety protocols.
• BLS certification.
• Preferred experience in behavioral health, addiction treatment, or primary care.

Pay

Annual ranges listed are based on a full-time, 40 hours per week position. Salary Range $22.40 - $25.25 USD.