Working in a medical office can be a highly rewarding profession for those who are passionate about the healthcare sector. Working with a range of personnel, from physicians and nurse practitioners to surgeons and chiropractors, an administrative assistant in a private office, hospital or community clinic keeps staff organized and incoming clients calm as they wait to see a doctor. Like most jobs, there are challenges and rewards that go along with this role. Here are some tips to help students successfully find their way to one of these positions.
Wear Many Hats
With the variety of different roles present in a healthcare office, it is important to be a well-rounded medical assistant. Students who learn and understand the basic tasks of billing professionals, nurses, social workers and are aware of physicians' general routines can be more dependable around the office and even advance themselves if another opportunity arises. When a worker is sick or not present in the office, office assistants can make sure that the daily agenda still runs smoothly and no errors are made just because of one particular absence.
Ask Questions
In middle school, teachers often remind students, "There are no stupid questions." This adage remains true when students become professionals in the workforce, because the only way to know if they have gotten the job done is to ask supervisors and experienced workers how they are doing and how they can improve. Not only can this make workers more efficient but it can also show colleagues that they are devoted to their role.
Office Politics
Every workplace has it - gossip, inappropriate discussions and inter-office power struggles. The best way to avoid similar mishaps is to stay out of these types of conversations and remain professional with coworkers at all times. While joking around with colleagues and developing camaraderie is encouraged, engaging in gossip can do significant harm to other employees' reputations and ultimately hinder the gossiper's chances of being taken seriously in the workplace. Workers should avoid it at all costs.
Education
Ultimately, the best way to help secure employment as a medical office assistant is by getting proper training in a relevant college program. Typically, these courses exercise students' computer skills, as well as training specific to a medical office, like administering basic tests, medical transcription and operating billing software.
Students who desire this type of career but need more educational training can enroll in healthcare courses at Reeves College. For more information about the Medical Office Assistant program, fill out the form on the right.