What is a Medical Office Administrator Job?
A medical office administrator is a professional who manages the administrative aspects of a medical office. This position requires an individual to be responsible for the smooth and efficient functioning of the office and its operations. The job demands a high level of organizational skills and attention to detail. Medical office administrators are responsible for managing the office staff, maintaining patient records, scheduling appointments, and ensuring that the office is running smoothly. They are also responsible for ensuring that the office is compliant with all federal and state regulations regarding healthcare.
What Usually Do in This Position?
A medical office administrator's job responsibilities include managing the day-to-day operations of the medical office. This involves scheduling appointments, greeting patients, answering phones, and responding to emails. They are responsible for maintaining patient records and ensuring that all documentation is accurate and up-to-date. Medical office administrators also manage the office staff, including hiring and training new employees, scheduling staff, and managing payroll. Additionally, they ensure the office is compliant with all healthcare regulations and manage the office's finances, including billing and collections.
Top 5 Skills for Position
- Strong organizational and time-management skills
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
- Ability to work well in a fast-paced environment
- Strong attention to detail
- Proficiency in computer skills and software such as Microsoft Office and electronic health records (EHR) systems
How to Become a Medical Office Administrator?
To become a medical office administrator, you will need to have at least a high school diploma or GED. However, many employers prefer candidates with an associate's or bachelor's degree in healthcare administration or a related field. Additionally, you will need to have relevant experience in the healthcare industry, such as working in a medical office or hospital. You can also obtain certification through organizations such as the American Medical Technologists (AMT) or the National Healthcare Association (NHA).
Average Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for medical and health services managers, which includes medical office administrators, is $104,280 as of May 2020. However, salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and the type of healthcare facility.
Roles and Types
Medical office administrators can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, and nursing homes. Some typical roles within this profession include medical office manager, medical secretary, and medical receptionist. Medical office administrators can also specialize in specific areas such as billing and coding or medical records management.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
The demand for medical office administrators is high in the United States, with job growth projected to be 32 percent through 2029, according to the BLS. Some of the top states for medical office administrator jobs include California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania.
What Are the Typical Tools?
Medical office administrators typically use a variety of tools to manage the office's daily operations, including electronic health records (EHR) systems, billing and coding software, scheduling and appointment software, and office productivity software such as Microsoft Office. They may also use medical terminology reference materials, such as medical dictionaries or coding manuals.
In Conclusion
A career as a medical office administrator can be rewarding for those who enjoy working in the healthcare industry and have strong organizational and communication skills. With the demand for healthcare services on the rise, the need for qualified medical office administrators is also increasing. By obtaining the necessary education and experience, individuals can pursue this career path and make a difference in the lives of patients and healthcare providers.