Why You’ll Love This Role
Do you want your work to actually matter? At Central Iowa Family Institute, every patient interaction makes a real difference in someone’s mental health journey. Founded on the belief that the most effective way to ensure well-being is to engage, strengthen, and support families, our institute brings together cutting-edge research, advanced counseling practices, and holistic care – all under one roof in Ankeny.
We’re a small, close-knit team where your contributions won’t get lost in a giant health system. You’ll be a valued part of a practice that genuinely cares – about patients and about the people who serve them.
We’re looking for a Medical Assistant who is equal parts organized, compassionate, and comfortable wearing a few hats. You’ll work directly with our Nurse Practitioner on the clinical side while also being the welcoming face patients see at the front desk.
What You’ll Do
Clinical Support
- Room patients, take vital signs, and document medical information accurately in Therapy Notes
- Manage medication refill requests (controlled and non-controlled) and coordinate directly with pharmacies on prescription clarifications
- Initiate and complete prior authorizations, insurance follow-up, and prepare required documentation for approvals and reviews
- Prepare exam rooms and assist the Nurse Practitioner during appointments
- Triage medication-related patient messages on behalf of the provider
Front Desk & Administrative
- Be the first point of contact – greet patients, answer phones, and create a welcoming environment
- Schedule, confirm, and manage patient appointments
- Handle patient check-in and check-out, including verifying insurance coverage
- Maintain accurate, confidential patient records in compliance with HIPAA
- Assist with basic billing tasks and insurance follow-up as needed
What We’re Looking For
Must-Haves
- Active CMA or RMA certification required
- Comfort with electronic health records (Therapy Notes)and standard office technology
- Strong attention to detail and ability to multitask without losing accuracy
- Excellent communication skills – warm, professional, and patient-centered
- Reliable, dependable, and able to maintain confidentiality at all times
- Prior authorization and insurance follow-up experience
Nice-to-Haves (Not Required)
- Experience in a mental health or behavioral health setting
- Familiarity with Therapy Notes
- Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus
What We Offer
- $18-20 per hour based on experience
- Health insurance is offered. Dental & Vision will be 100% employees responsibility
- Paid time off - employee shall also qualify for five (5) days of Paid Time Off in the first year. They will qualify for 10 days in the 2nd and 3rd year of employment, respectively, and 15 days in the 4th and consecutive years, in addition to 9 paid federal holidays.
- A supportive, collaborative team environment where you’re not just a number
- Meaningful work helping individuals and families improve their mental health
About Central Iowa Family Institute
Central Iowa Family Institute is a compassionate, patient-centered mental health practice in Ankeny, Iowa. We believe the most effective way to ensure each individual’s well-being is to provide counseling services that engage, strengthen, and support families. Our unique three-pronged approach combines clinical therapy, professional training programs, and collaborative research with world-renowned universities – ensuring our patients always receive care grounded in the latest science.
We take an integrative approach, considering each person’s unique needs, preferences, symptoms, values, and circumstances. Our providers are in-network with Cigna (Evernorth), Health Partners, Medicaid, Midlands Choice, UCH–UBH, and Wellmark BCBS.
Ready to Apply?
Submit your resume and a brief cover letter to [email protected]. Please include contactable references. We review applications on a rolling basis and will keep this position open until we find the right fit.
We look forward to welcoming a dedicated team member who shares our commitment to compassionate mental health care.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Experience:
- prior authorization: 1 year (Required)
License/Certification:
- CMA or RMA certification (Required)
Work Location: In person
