Medical Assistant

About the role

The Medical Assistant (MA) supports physicians and clinical staff in providing exceptional musculoskeletal care in an orthopedic environment. This role requires expertise in clinical practices, strong communication skills, and the ability to manage diverse responsibilities efficiently within a dynamic and fast‑paced setting. Primary duties include preparing patients for examinations, assisting with orthopedic procedures such as casting, bracing, and wound care, and maintaining accurate documentation in electronic medical records (EMR). The Medical Assistant also facilitates patient flow, coordinates appointments, and provides pre‑ and post‑visit education to ensure a seamless care experience for patients and providers.

Responsibilities

• Prepares patients for visit by directing/accompanying patients to the examination or X‑ray room, providing gowns/drapes, and assisting with proper positioning for examination or treatment.
• Interviews patients and records medical histories; may order X‑rays per provider order or protocol.
• Assists health‑care providers during examinations, including dressing changes, taking vital signs, performing blood draws, applying/removing casts or splints, removing sutures/staples, preparing laboratory test requests, and preparing lab specimens for pick‑up per protocol.
• Prepares and orders medication prescriptions and orders for X‑rays, rehabilitation, DME, etc., as directed by the provider.
• Completes appropriate documentation in the EMR system and updates patient health‑history information, scanning various documentation (hospital dictation, disability forms, laboratory test requests, etc.) into EMR.
• Receives, disseminates for provider signature, and scans test results and medical clearances into EMR; updates patient history in EMR within 24 hours of visit.
• Schedules appointments, tests, procedures, and/or surgery following scheduling protocols and ensures follow‑up appointments are scheduled for test results, post‑operative care, etc.
• Responds to patient phone calls in a timely manner, makes follow‑up calls, and documents communications in EMR.
• Maintains exam rooms by stocking supplies, instruments, and equipment, cleaning rooms between patients and at clinic end, and disposing of contaminated supplies per protocol.
• Cleans and sterilizes medical instruments and equipment.
• Prepares disability and other forms for provider signature.
• Monitors inventory and orders medical supplies.
• Occasional travel may be required; floating positions require frequent travel.
• Other duties may be assigned by providers, RNs, and managers.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (required).
• Medical Assistant certification (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) or completion of an accredited Medical Assistant program (preferred).
• Proficiency in electronic health record (EHR/EMR) systems.
• Current CPR certification (CPR, BLS).
• Two years orthopedic experience (preferred).
• Three years medical office experience (preferred).

Skills

• Proficiency in use of electronic medical records (preferred).
• Clear and concise written and verbal communication.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to understand and follow written, oral, or diagram instructions.
• Problem‑solving and critical‑thinking abilities.
• Strong knowledge of orthopedic terminology (preferred).
• Strong knowledge of orthopedic surgical and diagnostic procedures (preferred).
• Working knowledge of HIPAA and safety guidelines.
• Effective interaction with patients and families.
• Ability to travel between multiple site locations, if applicable.

Physical Demands

• Hearing adequate to perform duties in person and over the telephone.
• Speaking ability to clearly communicate in person and over the telephone.
• Vision adequate for patient examination, reading printed sources and computer screens.
• Frequent lifting and carrying of items up to 30 pounds unassisted, including assisting patients.
• Manual dexterity sufficient for required health‑care services.
• Frequent bending, reaching, repetitive hand movements, standing, walking, squatting, and sitting, with some heavy lifting, pushing, and pulling.

Work Environment

• Potential exposure to infectious diseases and bodily fluids when interacting with patients and families.
• Occasional exposure to moving mechanical parts, fumes, airborne particles, and toxic or caustic chemicals.
• Noise level typical of a physician’s office.