May also be called: Dental Secretaries; Medical Administrative Specialists; Medical Office Receptionists; Medical Office Secretaries; Medical Receptionists
Medical Secretaries provide administrative or clerical support to physicians or other health professionals. They schedule appointments and make sure the office runs smoothly. A good understanding of grammar, punctuation, and spelling is important because Medical Secretaries may assist physicians or medical scientists with reports, speeches, articles, and conference proceedings. Medical Secretaries' work involves knowledge and use of medical terminology and hospital or laboratory procedures. The job duties of a Medical Secretary vary depending on the size of the office. In smaller offices, Medical Secretaries may greet patients, schedule appointments, keep records, answer phone calls, and order supplies. In larger establishments, Medical Secretaries could work in the medical records department or as a personal secretary to the department head. Additionally, Medical Secretaries may handle correspondence, bill patients, complete insurance forms, and transcribe dictation. They may keep financial records and handle credits, collections, and other bookkeeping duties. They also record simple medical histories and arrange for patients to be hospitalized. Tools and Technology Medical Secretaries may use a variety of computer software, such as medical, accounting, and scheduling programs. They may also operate multi-line telephone systems, credit card machines, scanners, and fax machines.
Each task below is matched to a sample skill required to carry out the task.
Medical Secretaries work in hospitals, insurance companies, doctors' offices, local or State health departments, clinics, medical research offices, and other medical facilities. They communicate with patients, doctors, or medical insurance companies by phone or in person. Medical Secretaries usually work 40 hours a week. If they work in a physician's office, they may work evenings and weekends. Medical Secretaries may sit for long periods using the computer to schedule appointments, process medical insurance claims, and write correspondence for physicians. To avoid eyestrain, stress, and repetitive motion ailments, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, Medical Secretaries must make sure their monitor is at eye level and their chair and desk are at the appropriate height. Medical Secretaries working in University of California hospitals may join the America Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees Local 3299. Medical Secretaries who work in other hospitals sometimes join the Health Care Workers division of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).
The job of Medical Secretary will appeal to those who enjoy activities that are organized, clearly defined, and require accuracy and attention to detail. This type of work frequently involves discretion and good judgment while following set procedures and working independently. The ability to use medical terminology and write correspondence is desired. Individuals considering this occupation should enjoy dealing with people in person and on the phone.
Salaries vary a great deal, often reflecting differences in skill, experience, and level of responsibility. Certification in this field may be rewarded by a higher salary.
The median wage in 2021 for Medical Secretaries in California was $45,355 annually, or $21.80 hourly. The median wage for Medical Secretaries in Kings County was $31,260 annually, or $15.03 hourly. The median is the point at which half of the workers earn more and half earn less.
Employers may provide health and life insurance, sick leave, vacation, and retirement plans.
As a result of the growth in the health care industry, Medical Secretaries can expect a positive job market. A sizeable number of openings will occur as workers leave the occupation to retire, change careers, or for other reasons. Opportunities should be very good for those with knowledge of medical terminology and computer skills.
In California, the number of Medical Secretaries is expected to grow much faster than average growth rate for all occupations. Jobs for Medical Secretaries are expected to increase by 19.0 percent, or 18,900 jobs between 2018 and 2028.
In Kings County, the number of Medical Secretaries is expected to remain stable between 2018 and 2028.
Most employers require Medical Secretaries to have a high school diploma or the equivalent. Some employers will train workers with good office skills to become a Medical Secretary. However, most employers prefer candidates with knowledge of medical office procedure and medical terminology. Community colleges, vocational programs, and business schools offer associate degrees or certificates for Medical Secretaries.
The experience required for Medical Secretaries differs for each employer. However, prior health care employment, knowledge of medical terminology, medical office procedures, or knowledge of health care operations will give job seekers an advantage.
High school students interested in this field may obtain valuable office skills and medical terminology experience by working part time or volunteering in a medical facility. California offers Regional Occupational Programs (ROP) for Medical Secretaries. To find an ROP program near you, go to the California Association of Regional Occupational Centers and Programs Web site at www.carocp.org/carocps.html.
While continuing education is currently not a requirement, some Medical Secretaries increase their chance of promotion by keeping up to date with the latest developments in medical terminology and software applications. Those who are certified by the International Association of Administrative Professionals must obtain 60 points every five years which includes continuing education among other activities.
There are no certification requirements for a Medical Secretary. However, for purposes of career advancement, and higher salaries, Medical Secretaries may obtain the Certified Professional Secretary and Certified Administrative Professional rating from the International Association of Administrative Professionals. Applicants must meet the required education and experience level, pass an exam, and pay the fee for a five-year certificate. For more information, go to the U.S. Department of Labor's Career InfoNet Web site at www.acinet.org and scroll down to "Career Tools." Click on "Certification Finder" at www.acinet.org/certifications_new/default.aspx and follow the instructions to locate certification programs.
There are two ways to search for training information at www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/resources/training-and-apprenticeships.html
Contact the schools you are interested in to learn about the classes available, tuition and fees, and any prerequisite course work.
The largest industries employing Medical Secretaries are as follows:
Direct application to employers remains one of the most effective job search methods. Medical Secretaries can also register with their school placement center for job opportunities. Classified ads, journals, and the Internet provide additional sources for job listings. Those interested in working on a temporary basis may also contact temporary agencies. Online job opening systems include JobCentral at www.jobcentral.com and CalJOBSSM at www.caljobs.ca.gov.To find your nearest One-Stop Career Center, go to Service Locator. View the helpful job search tips for more resources. (requires Adobe Reader).
You can focus your local job search by checking employers listed online or in your local telephone directory. Below are some suggested headings where you might find employers of Medical Secretaries.
To locate a list of employers in your area, use "Find Employers" on the LaborMarketInfo Web site at http://www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/aspdotnet/databrowsing/empMain.aspx?menuChoice=emp
Medical Secretaries who work in clinics or hospitals can advance to administrative positions, such as senior Secretary, clerical supervisor, office manager, medical records clerk, administrative assistant, or unit manager.
Below is a list of occupations related to Medical Secretaries.
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Printed on Sunday, June 26, 2022