WHAT IS A PATIENT SUPPORT ASSOCIATE JOB?
A patient support associate job is a role in the healthcare industry that focuses on providing assistance and support to patients in various healthcare settings. These professionals play a crucial role in ensuring that patients receive the care and attention they need during their medical journeys. Patient support associates are often found in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities.
WHAT DO PATIENT SUPPORT ASSOCIATES USUALLY DO IN THIS POSITION?
In this position, patient support associates are responsible for a wide range of tasks that are essential for maintaining a smooth and efficient healthcare environment. They may greet and check-in patients, collect and update patient information, assist with scheduling appointments, answer phone calls, and provide general administrative support. Additionally, patient support associates may also provide emotional support to patients and their families, answer questions about medical procedures, and ensure that patients feel comfortable and cared for during their time at the healthcare facility.
TOP 5 SKILLS FOR A PATIENT SUPPORT ASSOCIATE POSITION
- 1. Communication Skills: Strong communication skills are essential for patient support associates as they interact with patients, their families, and healthcare professionals on a daily basis. Being able to effectively communicate information and provide empathetic support is crucial in this role.
- 2. Organization: Patient support associates must be highly organized to manage multiple tasks and responsibilities efficiently. This includes maintaining patient records, scheduling appointments, and ensuring that all necessary paperwork is completed accurately.
- 3. Attention to Detail: Accuracy is vital in healthcare settings, and patient support associates must pay close attention to detail when collecting and updating patient information, scheduling appointments, and handling administrative tasks.
- 4. Empathy and Compassion: Working with patients who may be experiencing physical or emotional distress requires a high level of empathy and compassion. Patient support associates should be able to provide comfort and support to patients and their families during challenging times.
- 5. Teamwork: Collaboration and teamwork are essential in healthcare settings. Patient support associates often work alongside nurses, doctors, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive the best possible care. Being a team player is crucial in this role.
HOW TO BECOME A PATIENT SUPPORT ASSOCIATE
To become a patient support associate, there are several steps you can take:
1. Education: While a formal degree may not be required for this role, having a high school diploma or equivalent is typically necessary. Some employers may prefer candidates with post-secondary education or certifications in healthcare administration or a related field.
2. Experience: Previous experience in customer service or healthcare settings can be beneficial when pursuing a patient support associate position. This can include roles such as receptionist, medical assistant, or customer service representative.
3. On-the-Job Training: Once hired, patient support associates often receive on-the-job training to familiarize themselves with the specific procedures and systems used in their healthcare facility. This training may include learning about medical terminology, privacy regulations, and administrative tasks.
4. Certifications: While not always required, obtaining certifications such as Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) or Certified Healthcare Access Associate (CHAA) can enhance your credentials and increase your chances of advancement in this field.
AVERAGE SALARY
The average salary for a patient support associate can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and the specific healthcare facility. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for medical secretaries, which includes patient support associates, was $37,090 as of May 2020. However, it is important to note that salaries may vary significantly based on the region and the individual employer.
ROLES AND TYPES
Patient support associates can work in various healthcare settings, including:
- Hospitals: Patient support associates in hospitals assist with patient check-in, scheduling appointments, and providing administrative support to medical staff.
- Clinics: In clinics, patient support associates may perform similar tasks to those in hospitals, such as scheduling appointments and maintaining patient records.
- Nursing Homes: Patient support associates in nursing homes often provide additional support to residents and their families, offering emotional comfort and assisting with daily activities.
- Specialty Clinics: Some patient support associates work in specialized clinics, such as dermatology or orthopedic clinics, where they may have additional responsibilities specific to the specialty.
LOCATIONS WITH THE MOST POPULAR PATIENT SUPPORT ASSOCIATE JOBS IN THE USA
Patient support associate jobs can be found throughout the United States. However, certain locations may have higher demand for these professionals. Some of the cities with a high concentration of patient support associate jobs include:
- New York City, NY
- Los Angeles, CA
- Chicago, IL
- Houston, TX
- Atlanta, GA
WHAT ARE THE TYPICAL TOOLS USED IN PATIENT SUPPORT ASSOCIATE JOBS?
As patient support associates perform various administrative tasks, they often utilize a range of tools to carry out their responsibilities. Some typical tools used in patient support associate jobs include:
- Electronic Medical Record (EMR) Systems: These systems are used to store and access patient information securely. Patient support associates may need to update records, schedule appointments, and retrieve relevant information using EMR systems.
- Phone Systems: Patient support associates often use phone systems to answer calls, schedule appointments, and provide information to patients and their families.
- Computer Software: Familiarity with common computer software, such as Microsoft Office Suite, is important for tasks like creating and updating spreadsheets, composing emails, and generating reports.
- Fax Machines and Scanners: Patient support associates may need to use fax machines and scanners to send and receive important documents, such as medical records or insurance information.
- Office Equipment: Basic office equipment, including printers, copiers, and shredders, may be used by patient support associates for various administrative tasks.
IN CONCLUSION
Patient support associate jobs are vital in the healthcare industry as they provide essential assistance and support to patients. These professionals require a combination of administrative skills, empathy, and teamwork to ensure that patients receive the care they need. By pursuing education, gaining relevant experience, and developing the necessary skills, individuals can embark on a rewarding career as a patient support associate.