About the job
The Medical Assistant embodies the mission, vision, and values of Northwestern Medicine, while adhering to the organization's Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program. This role is crucial in complying with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines, and other regulatory and accreditation standards.
As a key member of the healthcare team, the Medical Assistant is primarily responsible for supporting physicians, nurses, and other licensed medical staff by ensuring smooth patient flow, assisting with various patient care tasks, and performing necessary administrative functions. This role emphasizes maintaining a clean, safe, and organized patient care environment while fostering patient satisfaction through professional and friendly interactions, all while safeguarding patient confidentiality.
Key Responsibilities:
- Facilitates efficient patient flow through the clinic: Escorts patients to examination rooms, verifies patient identity using two identifiers, and prepares patients for examinations. Accurately records vital signs in accordance with organizational standards and documents the reason for visit, allergies, smoking history, and pharmacy information. Notifies the provider and registered nurse promptly of any significant changes in vital signs or acute symptoms. Anticipates and sets up necessary equipment or supplies for patient visits. Cleans and prepares exam rooms for subsequent patients and prioritizes tasks to maintain flow.
- Assists practitioners with medical and surgical procedures following established protocols, including Electrocardiograms (ECG), venipuncture, immunizations, setting up procedure trays, specimen collection, and CLIA-waived testing as directed by the Provider.
- Ensures high-quality care by preparing and stocking all exam rooms according to established protocols for disinfecting and sterilizing equipment and instruments. Participates in environmental safety rounds, maintains vaccine and medication inventory, and monitors equipment according to clinic guidelines. Assists in ordering supplies and ensures proper disposal of expired items, adhering to office opening and closing procedures.
- Actively participates as an integral member of the patient care team, enhancing patient satisfaction by interacting professionally and courteously. Accepts and performs delegated responsibilities positively, assists colleagues, attends staff meetings, and communicates effectively with patients and the care team both in-person and via phone.
- Executes delegated procedures common to dermatology in a safe and efficient manner.