What are the responsibilities and job description for the MEDICAL OFFICE SPECIALIST position at Rice Community Health?
Job Title: Medical Office Assistant
Department: Lyons Family Care/Sterling Family Care
Reports to: Clinic Manager and Director of Clinic Operations
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Job Summary:
The Medical Office Assistant plays a vital role in supporting the day-to-day operations of the Lyons Family Care (LFC) / Sterling Family Care (SFC). This position is responsible for managing medical records, assisting with billing processes, providing front desk reception (patient services) duties, and delivering general administrative support to ensure efficient and professional clinic operations. The ideal candidate will be organized, detail-oriented, flexible and able to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
Essential Functions:
**Medical Records Management**
- Organize, file, and maintain patient medical records in accordance with HIPAA and clinic policies
- Process requests for medical records, ensuring timely and confidential release of information
- Scan, upload, and index patient documentation into the electronic health record (EHR) system
- Monitor records for accuracy and completeness
**Billing Assistance**
- Support billing team with data entry and submission of charges
- Verify patient insurance and assist with pre-authorizations as needed
- Assist in resolving billing errors and responding to billing inquiries from patients or insurers
- Post payments and reconcile billing documentation
**Front Desk Reception (Patient Services) Duties**
- Greet and assist patients in a professional and courteous manner
- Answer phones, schedule appointments, and direct calls to appropriate staff
- Check in/out patients, verify demographics and insurance
- Collect co-pays and provide receipts
**General Office Support**
- Assist with incoming and outgoing mail, faxing, scanning, and copying
- Perform other clerical duties as assigned to support clinic operations
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- 1-2 years experience in a medical office or healthcare setting preferred
- Knowledge of medical terminology, EHR systems, and HIPAA regulations
- Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
- Excellent communication, customer service, and organizational skills
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times
Work Environment and Physical Requirements:
- Standard office environment within a medical clinic
- Frequent sitting, data entry, and use of office equipment
- Occasional lifting of office supplies and files up to 25 pounds
- Regular interaction with staff, patients, and external contacts
This job description is not intended as an all-inclusive list of responsibilities that may be assigned and is subject to change based on the needs of the organization.