Medical assistants
are responsible for the efficient operation of a physician’s office. They also work in clinics, health maintenance organizations, and ambulatory care units. Medical assistants must provide a clear record for someone who may be interested in learning how to be an accountant for the office you are a medical assistant at. Medical assistants have varied duties besides keeping the accounting records straight. Some medical assistants have specialized in back office procedures while others choose to work in the front office. They work in doors in a clean environment, 40 hours a week, and some weekends. They have varied job opportunities, and their work requires standing on their feet most of the day (back office), lifting, reaching and helping patients and clients. They may be exposed to body fluids. The front office worker sits at a desk for longer periods.
The current trend toward large medical groups has relocated administrative front office responsibilities. Billing, insurance verification, medical records, appointment scheduling, and payroll have been relocated to departments that specialize in handling work for the increased number of patients/client. Medical assistants often are responsible for: Greet patients/clients, answer phones, handle mail, make appointments, arrange hospital admissions, arrange for laboratory services, prepare insurance forms, type medical reports, maintain patient files, may handle billing receipts, and prepare payroll for office staff.
While referring to the list of responsibilities above it is clear why a medical assistant should try to understand the role of accounting and the job of an accountant while preparing and documenting financial reports for a physician’s office.
