Medical Assistant (Research) - Center for Human Phenomic Science

Job Summary

The Research Medical Assistant in the Clinical and Translational Research Center is responsible for assisting the healthcare team in providing quality patient care in the implementation of research protocols.   Performs a variety of clinical and administrative duties including obtaining and recording vital signs and measurements, phlebotomy, blood and other sample processing, urinalysis testing, scheduling patients, documenting specimen flows, data entry and filing during low patient volume periods.

Job Responsibilities

Facilities the provision of care to research subjects in the implementation of research protocols; manages the flow of research subjects in the outpatient unit as part of daily operations                                              

• Accurately obtains and records patients vital signs, including height, weight, and head circumference, where applicable.
• Ensures research subjects and study teams are greeted in timely fashion; Assists nursing and medical staff with implementation of research procedures/tests; coordinates all care and notifies nurse manager of issues or delays.
• Ensures all needed supplies, charts and equipment is ready for each study specific patient visit
• Manages QA functions in relation to Point of Care refrigerators operation and maintenance
• Performs hearing and vision screening as appropriate.
• Reports abnormal findings.
• Accurately completes documents related to patient visit.
• Maintains efficient patient and specimen flow. Keeps accurate census data on research subjects for reporting and tracking purposes.
• Trains staff on program’s census database; investigates errors, performs internal QA functions; makes recommendations to eliminate errors; documents internal processes and is a liaison for Informatics Manager and Nurse Manager for ensuring accurate input and output of data
• Reviews census reports for accuracy daily
• Chaperones patients when needed.
• Seeks assistance from licensed staff as needed.
• Responds appropriately during emergency situations.
• Administers immunizations and PPD's as required.
• Maintains clear lines of authority, responsibility and communication.
• Assists in the training and orientation of new personnel.
• Performs phlebotomy as per hospital standards. Responsible for the procurement of blood specimens from patients as requested by venous or capillary methods while instituting proper safety and infection techniques.  Responsible for processing blood specimens which may include:
  • spinning in centrifuge
  • separation of plasma and/or serum
  • freezing sample
  • shipping sample or carrying to appropriate lab

• Follows infectious disease protocols as required
• Is self-directed in work area; seeks out and performs meaningful work during patient downtime. Offers assistance to other healthcare providers.
• Performs other duties as assigned, including floating as needed.

Maintains the patient/clinic environment in a well-stocked and organized fashion. Cleans and restocks exam rooms and treatment rooms on a specified schedule or as needed.  Transports specimens/records. Maintains environment to exhibit a clean and pleasing work area.

Oversees in conjunction with front office staff  clerical operations of the outpatient unit , including but not limited to:

• Filing
• Answers, screens and responds to incoming telephone calls in a prompt and courteous manner. Takes and distributes messages appropriately.
• Chart preparation
• Responsible for providing back-up to arriving and releasing patient orders
• Data entry

Required Licenses, Certifications, Registrations

Required Education and Experience

Required Education: High School Diploma or GED, Graduate of an accredited Medical Assistant program

Required Experience: 10 years of phlebotomy experience

Additional Technical Requirements

• Knowledge of examination, diagnostic, and treatment room procedures,
• Knowledge of common safety hazards and precautions to maintain a safe work environment.
• Skill in taking vital signs.
• Skill in maintaining records and recording test results.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with patients, medical staff, and the public.
• Ability to maintain quality control standards.
• Ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
• Ability to read and understand and respond to detailed oral and written instructions.
• Ability to communicate clearly