Medical Assistant - Western Maryland Primary Care

UPMC's Western Maryland Primary Care is seeking a Medical Assistant to join their team! This fully remote role will primarily be responsible for processing outpatient medial refill requests. This role ensures safe prescribing practices, accurate documentation, and timely communication with patients, providers, and pharmacies. This role is also responsible for coordinating prior authorization submissions and following up on denials, based on the patient's insurance and provider documentation. This position will work Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 4:30pm. No holidays, evenings or weekends are required. One yaar of Medical Assistant experience is preferred.

Title and starting pay rate of this position may vary based on years of experience.

What Can UPMC Do for You?

• A career path that provides you with the right experience to be successful in the position you want to obtain now and, in the future
   
• Health and welfare benefits like medical, vision, dental, and life and disability, and an exceptional retirement program
   
• Work life balance to help manage other important aspects of your life such as: PTO, wellness programs, paid parental leave
   
• Competitive pay for the work that you do

Key Responsibilities
- Review and enter refill requests received via EHR InBasket, telephone, fax, or patient portal.
- Create and document refill encounters in Epic, including call information, medication details, and pharmacy verification.
- Use approved SmartPhrases for documentation 
- Verify medication is active, accurate, and listed on the patient’s medication list.
- Ensure appropriate testing, labs, and office visits are current per protocol.
- Never override EHR warning messages; escalate uncertainties to providers.
- Work closely with providers, registered nurses, and pharmacists to resolve discrepancies and ensure patient safety.

Compliance and Safety:
- Adhere to maximum refill durations
- Ensure all refill requests are processed within 24-48 hours.
- Follow chronic medication refill protocol algorithms and lab/test monitoring requirements.
- Route notes and encounters to appropriate provider or clinical pool as per protocol.

Patient Communication:
- Contact patients to verify pharmacy information and schedule follow-up appointments as needed.
- Document patient interactions, including reasons for refill requests and any barriers to care.
- Educate patients on refill procedures and direct them to contact their pharmacy when appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills
- Familiarity with Epic EHR or similar electronic health record systems.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to safe medication practices.
- Excellent communication and organizational skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Experience with outpatient medication management and refill protocols.
- Knowledge of chronic disease management and lab/test monitoring requirements.
- Proficiency in patient scheduling and follow-up procedures.