JOB TITLE: Medical Assistant – Pre Admission Testing
REPORTS TO: Pre-Op and PAT Manager
FSLA STATUS: Non-Exempt
POSITION SUMMARY
The Pre-Admission Testing (PAT) Medical Assistant is responsible for performing a variety of clinical and administrative duties that support the delivery of quality patient care. This position serves as a liaison for surgical patients by bridging the gap between the clinical practice and OA’s Ambulatory Surgery Center. The PAT Medical Assistant supports safe and efficient surgical workflows through preoperative patient screening, education, documentation review, and coordination of preoperative requirements. The PAT Medical Assistant performs duties in accordance with established policies, procedures, and protocols and promptly escalates clinical questions, potential risks, and patient concerns to the appropriate licensed clinical team member.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
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Conduct comprehensive preoperative patient screenings via phone and in person
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Accurately obtain and document medical history, medication lists, and allergies
- Identify potential risks or concerns and escalate to appropriate clinical staff
- Provide approved preoperative instructions and confirm patient understanding
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Review patient records to verify that required preoperative clearances, testing, and documentation have been received; notify the appropriate clinical staff of missing or incomplete items
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Perform phlebotomy and collect ordered preoperative laboratory specimens in accordance with established procedures
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Communicate effectively with patients, providers, and interdisciplinary teams
- Maintain accurate, timely documentation in the electronic medical record
PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Preoperative Screening & Review
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Complete detailed medical history intake, including prior anesthesia history and patient-reported concerns; escalate potential risks or concerns to the appropriate licensed clinical staff.
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Perform medication reconciliation (prescription, OTC, supplements)
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Verify documented allergies
Patient Education
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Review pre-surgical instructions, including:
- Medication hold or continuation instructions in accordance with established protocols and provider direction
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NPO guidelines
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Use of preoperative cleansing wipes
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Day-of-surgery expectations and arrival logistics
Care Coordination
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Review patient records to verify that required preoperative clearances, testing, and documentation have been received
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Follow up on incomplete or missing documentation prior to surgery
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Communicate with PAT team, surgical schedulers, and providers to resolve issues
Phlebotomy & Testing
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Perform phlebotomy per protocol
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Ensure proper labeling, processing, and documentation of lab results
Surgical Preparation Support
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Contact patients with surgery arrival times
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Confirm completion of preoperative requirements prior to scheduled procedure
QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS
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Current State of Maine LPN License or Completion of an accredited Medical Assistant program; Or equivalent criteria minimum of 1-2 years MA clinical experience in a physician medical practice required
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Completion of 160 hours clinical experience acquired through an MA externship
- CMA or RMA credentialing
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Current BLS required
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Prior experience in preoperative, surgical or ambulatory care preferred
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Strong clinical skills in medical assisting and patient care coordination
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with patients and healthcare teams
- Effective time management, organization, and ability to prioritize tasks
- Ability to adapt to changing workflows and daily demands
- Compassionate, patient-centered approach to care
- Maintains confidentiality and professionalism at all times
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team
- Strong customer service orientation
- Proficient in computer systems and electronic medical records
PHYSICAL DEMANDS / WORK ENVIRONMENT
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Daily use of computer operating instruments; stationary PC, Laptop PC, keyboard and mouse
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Light lifting of paperwork, folders or other general record keeping materials
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Operation of various office equipment: fax machine, telephone & voice mail system, stationary/lap top computer, e-mail system, scanner, and copier
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Lifting up to 20 pounds occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds frequently
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Walks frequently
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May be required to sit or stand for extended periods of time
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Risk of exposure to hazardous conditions and blood borne pathogens
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Occasional reaching, twisting, bending
- Current State of Maine LPN License or Completion of an accredited Medical Assistant program; Or equivalent criteria minimum of 1-2 years MA clinical experience in a physician medical practice required
-
Completion of 160 hours clinical experience acquired through an MA externship
- CMA or RMA credentialing
-
Current BLS required
-
Prior experience in preoperative, surgical or ambulatory care preferred
-
Strong clinical skills in medical assisting and patient care coordination
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with patients and healthcare teams
- Effective time management, organization, and ability to prioritize tasks
- Ability to adapt to changing workflows and daily demands
- Compassionate, patient-centered approach to care
- Maintains confidentiality and professionalism at all times
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team
- Strong customer service orientation
- Proficient in computer systems and electronic medical records
