Medical Assistant – Primary Care

About the Role

Under the supervision of the Nurse Manager and guided by the policies and procedures of Ambulatory Services, the Hospital Assistant II assists in the delivery of care to patients in the practice. This is a 3-month position with potential for extension. The role involves performing assigned patient care procedures, supporting front- and back-office responsibilities, and ensuring efficient patient flow. The Hospital Assistant II works as a team member, communicates with referring physicians, and serves as a liaison for outside providers.

Responsibilities

• Monitor patient flow in and out of the clinic.
• Obtain patients’ vital signs, height, weight, pain screening, and document chief complaints; may room patients.
• Utilize ApeX for documentation within the scope of practice of a Medical Assistant.
• Assist nurses and providers in preparation for exams and/or equipment (e.g., biopsy/PAP).
• Update HCM banner, carry out orders, provide AVS, schedule follow-up, and discharge patients.
• Obtain specimens and perform simple Point of Care Testing as directed, including QA/QC and EKGs.
• Administer injectable vaccines after verification of medication and dose with the provider (upon successful completion of UCSF-specific medication administration tests, training, modules, and observations).
• Comply with all Ambulatory Services and Medical Center policies and procedures for infection control, safety, administrative, and clinical practice, including activities mandated by TJC/Title 22.
• Transport patients as directed and ensure their safety.
• Document use of an interpreter and work with interpreting services for medical appointments (in person, by video, or by phone).
• Utilize ambulatory non-provider protocols to order and sign POCTs.
• Participate in updating mandatory logs (e.g., temperature, disaster cabinet, crash cart logs).
• Perform clinical activities accurately and in a timely manner.
• Assist with procedures as needed for the department specialty and as determined by the Manager or Director.
• Perform in-basket functions related to patient messages, labs, authorizations, and other tasks.
• Act as a chaperone as needed for medical providers.
• Notify providers of patient delays and service issues.
• Advocate for patients by helping facilitate provider punctuality.
• Communicate provider delays to the front-office team and assist patients with issues and complaints using conflict-management skills.
• Share pertinent information and observations with other health team members.
• Complete referrals to other providers as ordered by the physician, obtain authorizations from insurers for medications, and assist in writing and sending patient communications.
• Maintain clean, well-stocked exam rooms and lab equipment/supply standards as directed.
• Demonstrate service excellence by following the Everyday PRIDE Guide and UCSF Medical Center standards for communication and behavior.
• Use effective communication skills with patients and staff, including proper telephone techniques and etiquette.
• Exhibit tact and professionalism in difficult situations according to PRIDE Values and Practices.
• Understand and adhere to privacy, confidentiality, and security policies related to Protected Health Information (PHI).
• Understand and adhere to safety and infection-control policies and procedures.
• Assume accountability for improving quality metrics associated with the department/unit.
• Keep working areas neat, orderly, and clutter-free; follow cleaning processes and report unsafe conditions.
• Post flyers and posters only in designated areas.
• Protect the physical environment and equipment from damage and theft.
• Assist in other departments when necessary.
• Practice and maintain State and other regulatory body policies.
• Perform other relevant duties as needed.

Qualifications

• Current American Heart Association CPR certification.
• Minimum of one year of recent experience working in a busy health care environment.
• Knowledge and abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to the position.

Schedule

Employment duration: 3 months (with potential for extension). Flexibility to cover multiple UCSF Health center clinics is required.