Medical Assistant

About the Role

Northwestern Medicine is seeking a Medical Assistant for a full-time, days position in Palliative Medicine. This role is a key member of the healthcare team, supporting physicians, nurses, and licensed medical staff to ensure efficient patient flow and provide direct patient care.

Key Responsibilities

• Assure efficient patient flow through the clinic, including escorting patients, verifying identity with two identifiers, and preparing patients for examination.
• Obtain accurate vital signs according to organization standards.
• Document patient's reason for visit, update/confirm allergies, smoking history, and pharmacy information.
• Promptly inform providers and registered nurses of significant changes in vital signs or acute symptoms.
• Anticipate and set up necessary equipment or supplies for patient visits.
• Clean and prepare exam rooms for subsequent patients.
• Respond to needs to expedite visits and maintain patient flow, prioritizing tasks accordingly.
• Assist practitioners with medical and surgical procedures, including:
• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Venipuncture
• Immunizations
• Setting up procedure trays
• Specimen collection and/or Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) waived testing as directed by a Provider.
• Provide high-quality care by:
• Preparing and stocking exam rooms following established disinfection and sterilization protocols for equipment and instruments.
• Participating in environmental safety rounds.
• Maintaining vaccine/medication inventory.
• Monitoring and maintaining equipment and instruments according to clinic guidelines.
• Assisting in ordering supplies and correctly disposing of expired items.
• Adhering to office opening and closing procedures.
• Function as an integral part of the patient care team and promote patient satisfaction through professional and friendly interactions.
• Accept and perform delegated responsibilities positively and offer assistance to colleagues.
• Attend and participate in staff meetings.
• Communicate appropriately and effectively with patients and the patient care team, both in person and over the phone.
• Perform delegated procedures common to the specialty area in a safe, effective, and efficient manner.
• Perform all other duties as assigned by the Supervisor or Manager.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• High school diploma or GED.
• Current certification in one of the below or must have written proof of meeting candidate eligibility requirements for writing one of the five eligible certification exams.
• Accepted documentation includes a letter from the school or certifying body for new MA Graduates within six (6) months of graduation.
• For Non-Certified MAs or new graduates past six (6) months, a letter from the certifying body is required.
• Within the first six (6) months of employment, must complete one of the following certifications (up to two test attempts):
• Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) through the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)
• Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) through the American Medical Technologists (AMT)
• National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) through the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)
• Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
• Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant (NRCMA) through the National Association for Health Professionals (NAHP)
• Signed acknowledgment during onboarding that certification must be attained within six (6) months as a condition of employment.
• American Heart Association accredited Basic Life Support (BLS/CPR) certification.
• Strong computer skills.

Qualifications

• Zero (0) to two (2) years of experience in a relevant role.
• Preferred: Completion of an accredited Medical Assistant training program.
• Preferred: One to two years of ambulatory care experience.
• Preferred: Experience with electronic medical records.

Salary Range

• $19.13 - $25.83 (Hourly Rate)
• Placement within the salary range is dependent on factors such as relevant work experience and internal equity.
• For positions represented by a labor union, placement is guided by the collective bargaining agreement.