My esteemed private ophthalmology practice is seeking a highly organised, professional, and empathetic Medical Secretary to manage the administrative functions of our busy clinic. The ideal candidate will be the first point of contact for our patients, ensuring a smooth and positive experience from scheduling through follow-up. This role requires exceptional attention to detail, strong communication skills, and a commitment to maintaining patient confidentiality.
Key Responsibilities
Patient & Communication Management
- Telephone & Email: Manage a moderate volume of inbound and outbound calls. Schedule, reschedule, and confirm patient appointments, surgical procedures, and follow-up visits. Respond to patient inquiries regarding appointments, basic procedure information, and billing questions.
- Referrals: Process incoming patient referrals from external physicians and coordinate appointments promptly.
- EHR Management: Accurately enter and update patient data, appointments, and medical records in the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
Billing & Financial Administration
- Insurance Verification: Verify patient insurance eligibility, benefits, and authorization prior to appointments and procedures.
- Co-pay & Payment Collection: Collect co-payments, deductibles, and outstanding balances at the time of service.
- Charge Entry: Assist with basic charge entry and ensure accurate documentation for billing purposes.
- Records: Process requests for medical records and ensure compliance with HIPAA regulations and practice policies.
Practice Support & General Administration
- Inventory: Monitor and order office supplies, and potentially assist with basic clinical supplies.
- Documentation: Organize, file, and scan medical reports, correspondence, and test results into patient charts.
- Liaison: Act as a professional liaison between the ophthalmologist(s), patients, other medical offices, and hospitals.
Qualifications & Skills
Required Qualifications
- Experience: Minimum of 2-3 years of experience as a Medical Secretary, Medical Assistant, or in a similar administrative role within a healthcare setting.
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent. Additional secretarial or medical administrative certification is a plus.
- Technical: Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
Highly Desired Skills
- Ophthalmology Knowledge: Familiarity with ophthalmology terminology, common procedures (e.g., cataracts, Lasik, glaucoma), and diagnostic testing is a significant advantage.
- Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills with a professional and empathetic demeanor.
- Organizational: Exceptional organizational and time-management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
- HIPAA: Strong understanding and adherence to HIPAA guidelines and patient confidentiality.
- Problem-Solving: Proven ability to handle stressful situations, resolve scheduling conflicts, and address patient concerns with tact and efficiency.
- Proficiency with social media content making and uploading.
Compensation & Benefits
- Zero Hour Contract rules apply
- Role requires around 8-10 hours per week (30-40 hours / month).
Hourly Rate: £14-17 per hour based on experience
How to Apply
- Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a brief cover letter detailing their relevant experience and why they are a good fit for an ophthalmology practice.