Job Description for a Certified Medical Assistant

A certified medical assistant assists a physician in a clinic or hospital. The profession is growing and, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, will be one of the fastest growing fields through 2012. The assistant acts as a liaison between patients and physicians. Although duties vary by state and clinic, a certified medical assistant has a variety of responsibilities.

Administrative

• A certified medical assistant is knowledgeable in a variety of administrative procedures, including scheduling and coordinating appointments, tests and procedures. They may also be responsible for establishing, maintaining, and filing patient files.

Financial

• Certified medical assistants must be familiar with health insurance and financial aspects of a medical office. Duties may include bookkeeping, including billing and collections, and filling out insurance forms.

Patient Care

• Certified medical assistants may greet patients to obtain their history, record vital signs, discuss and document any concerns, and follow up on test results. The assistant may also be responsible for preparing and maintaining examination rooms and equipment, ordering supplies and assisting the physician.

Diagnostics

• Certified medical assistants may be required to perform basic lab work, including collecting and processing specimens and administering and reading tests. A knowledge of routine diagnostic tests, such as electrocardiograms, may also be necessary.

Pharmacology

• In some states, certified medical assistants are responsible for preparing and administering medications and authorizing refills.