Cardiologist Medical Assistant

Job Title: Cardiologist Medical Assistant

Job Summary:
A Cardiologist Medical Assistant plays an essential role in supporting cardiologists and other healthcare professionals in the care of patients with heart and vascular conditions. This position involves a combination of clinical and administrative duties, including assisting with patient assessments, preparing patients for cardiology exams, performing diagnostic tests, and maintaining accurate patient records. The role requires a good understanding of cardiology-specific procedures and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Administrative Duties:

• Patient Scheduling: Schedule appointments for cardiology patients, including initial consultations, follow-ups, and diagnostic tests (e.g., EKG, stress tests).
• Patient Intake: Gather patient information, including medical history, family history of cardiovascular conditions, and current medications.
• Insurance and Billing: Verify insurance coverage for cardiology services, obtain pre-authorizations for tests or treatments, and assist with coding and billing for procedures such as echocardiograms and catheterizations.
• Medical Records Management: Maintain accurate and up-to-date electronic health records (EHR) for cardiology patients, including lab results, test findings, and physician notes.
• Patient Communication: Contact patients to inform them of upcoming appointments, lab results, and follow-up care instructions, ensuring clear communication.

Clinical Duties:

• Vital Signs and Patient Preparation: Measure and record vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation, and weight. Prepare patients for exams by explaining procedures and ensuring comfort.
• Assist in Diagnostic Procedures: Assist the cardiologist during diagnostic procedures such as electrocardiograms (EKGs), echocardiograms, stress tests, and Holter monitor placements.
• Perform Diagnostic Tests: Operate and maintain cardiology equipment like EKG machines, blood pressure cuffs, and ambulatory monitors.
• Cardiac Monitoring: Monitor patients during diagnostic tests, noting any abnormal findings and reporting them to the cardiologist.
• Patient Education: Educate patients on heart disease prevention, medication adherence, lifestyle modifications (e.g., diet, exercise), and the importance of follow-up care.
• Administer Medications: Administer prescribed medications or injections as directed by the cardiologist, such as anticoagulants, and assist with management of chronic conditions (e.g., hypertension, cholesterol).
• Cardiology-Specific Procedures: Assist in non-invasive cardiology procedures, such as stress tests, echocardiograms, and treadmill testing, by preparing patients and equipment and ensuring patient safety during the tests.

Infection Control and Safety:

• Sterilization and Equipment Maintenance: Ensure that cardiology equipment is properly sterilized and maintained, following all infection control procedures and safety standards.
• Sanitize Exam Rooms: Keep examination rooms and patient areas clean and organized, ensuring compliance with healthcare safety regulations.

Skills & Qualifications:

• Education and Certification:
  
  • Completion of an accredited Medical Assistant program (certification or degree) is required.
  • Cardiovascular or cardiology-specific training or certification is a plus (e.g., ECG certification).
  • Certification as a Medical Assistant (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) is often preferred.
• Knowledge of Cardiological Terminology and Procedures:
  
  • Understanding of common cardiology terms, procedures, and conditions (e.g., arrhythmias, heart disease, hypertension).
  • Familiarity with cardiology tests and equipment such as EKGs, echocardiograms, stress tests, and Holter monitors.
• Strong Communication Skills:
  
  • Ability to communicate effectively with patients, physicians, and other medical staff.
  • Comfort in discussing sensitive health information and educating patients about heart health.
• Attention to Detail and Organization:
  
  • Ability to manage patient records, test results, and appointment scheduling accurately.
  • Strong multitasking skills and the ability to manage clinical tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Technical Proficiency:
  
  • Experience with medical software, Electronic Health Records (EHR), and patient management systems.
  • Ability to operate cardiology equipment and technology (e.g., EKG machines, defibrillators, etc.).
• Compassion and Patient Care:
  
  • Demonstrates empathy and a patient-centered approach, especially when dealing with patients with heart disease or chronic conditions.
• Physical Stamina:
  
  • Ability to assist patients physically (e.g., moving patients, preparing equipment) and work long hours, if necessary.