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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Answer calls, assist patients, and manage appointments in a friendly environment.
- Company: Join Stowhealth, a caring GP practice with a focus on innovation and teamwork.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, supportive team, and opportunities for personal development.
- Why this job: Make a difference in patients' lives while gaining valuable experience in healthcare.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring your enthusiasm and communication skills.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team that values inclusivity and professional growth.
Stowhealth is an established GP Practice in Stowmarket, Suffolk. We pride ourselves on offering an excellent, efficient and friendly service to all patients. We currently have two vacancies for a part time receptionist/telephonist, each position is between 18 to 22 hours per week. This role will primarily involve answering the telephone, dealing with enquiries from patients and carrying out specific administrative tasks as appropriate to the role.
Main duties of the job
- To handle telephone enquiries in a professional manner.
- Inputting patient information on AskmyGP and actioning enquiries received from patients.
- To make, alter and update appointments for patients on the computer systems according to set protocols.
- To greet patients at the reception desk and deal with their enquiries in a professional manner.
- To provide advice and information to all users and visitors of Violet Hill House and associated health teams.
- To provide holiday and sickness cover for the reception team.
- Maintain security and confidentiality of persons, equipment and information.
About us
Stowhealth is an inclusive, friendly, flexible, forward thinking, multi-disciplinary Primary care team based in Stowmarket, Suffolk. We currently care for over 23,000 patients. We have a reputation for award winning innovation and novel working practices, developed to fit around our individual clinicians. We are part of the Stowmarket locality of East Suffolk PCN. We use the AskmyGP online consultation service allowing us to manage our own workload, with control over face to face appointment lengths and timings. Our team of doctors, advanced nurse practitioners, practice nurses and physician associates deal with daily clinical enquiries. Our skilled care navigators, receptionists and admin staff deal with non-clinical issues on our behalf.
Job responsibilities
Reception Duties
- To handle telephone enquiries in a professional manner.
- Inputting of patient information on AskmyGP and actioning enquiries received from patients.
- To greet patients at the reception desk and deal with their enquiries in a professional manner.
- To make, alter and update appointments for patients on the computer systems according to set protocols.
- Accurately extract and re-file patient records as and when required.
- To provide advice and information to all users and visitors of Violet Hill House and associated health teams.
- To provide holiday and sickness cover for the reception team.
- Keep reception area and desk efficient and tidy.
- To pass on relevant information to team members to ensure continuity of care and staff efficiency.
- Maintain security and confidentiality of persons, equipment and information.
Clerical Duties
- Registering patients and accurately entering data on to the relevant computer system.
- Ensuring that the patient database is accurately maintained by entering changes in address, name and other information on SystmOne and associated data systems according to protocols.
- Accurately compiling cervical smear forms, blood forms and associated data.
- Accurately entering Temporary Resident details on to the computer.
- Dealing with the incoming and outgoing delivery of post to Suffolk Health authority and Violet Hill House.
- Undertake additional administrative duties as required.
- Maintain accuracy of all information given and data entered.
- Maintain accurate knowledge of, and keep updated all written reception protocols.
- Any other delegated duties considered appropriate to the role.
Confidentiality
In the course of seeking treatment, patients entrust us with, or allow us to gather sensitive information in relation to their health and other matters. They do so in confidence and have the right to expect that staff will respect their privacy and act appropriately. In the performance of the duties outlined in this Job Description, the post-holder may have access to confidential information relating to patients and their carers, Practice staff and other healthcare workers. They may also have access to information relating to the Practice as a business organisation. All such information from any source is to be regarded as strictly confidential. Information relating to patients, carers, colleagues, other healthcare workers or the business of the Practice may only be divulged to authorised persons in accordance with the Practice policies and procedures relating to confidentiality and the protection of personal and sensitive data.
Health and Safety
The post holder will assist in promoting and maintaining their own and others health, safety and security as defined in the Practice Health and Safety Policy to include:
- Using personal security systems within the workplace in accordance with Practice guidelines.
- Identifying the risks involved in work activities and undertaking such activities in a way that manages those risks.
- Making effective use of training to update knowledge and skills.
- Using appropriate infection control procedures, maintaining work areas in a tidy and safe way and free from hazards.
Equality and Diversity
The post holder will support the equality, diversity and rights of patients, carers and colleagues to include:
- Acting in a way that recognises the importance of people's rights, interpreting them in a way that is consistent with Practice procedures and policies and current legislation.
- Respecting the privacy, dignity, needs and beliefs of patients, carers and colleagues.
- Behaving in a manner which is welcoming to and of the individual, is non-judgemental and respects their circumstances, feelings, priorities and rights.
Personal/Professional Development
The post-holder will participate in any training programme implemented by the Practice as part of this employment, such training to include:
- Participation in an annual individual performance review, including taking responsibility for maintaining a record of own personal and/or professional development.
- Taking responsibility for own development, learning and performance and demonstrating skills and activities to others who are undertaking similar work.
Quality
The post-holder will strive to maintain quality within the Practice and will alert other team members to issues of quality and risk. Assess own performance and take accountability for own actions, either directly or under supervision. Contribute to the effectiveness of the team by reflecting on own and team activities and making suggestions on ways to improve and enhance the team's performance. Work effectively with individuals in other agencies to meet patients needs. Effectively manage own time, workload and resources.
Communication
The post holder should recognise the importance of effective communication within the team and strive to:
- Communicate effectively with other team members.
- Communicate effectively with patients and carers.
- Recognise peoples needs for alternative methods of communication and respond accordingly.
Contribution to the Implementation of Services
The post holder will:
- Apply Practice policies, standards and guidance.
- Discuss with other members of the team how the policies, standards and guidelines will affect own work.
- Participate in audit where appropriate.
Person Specification
Previous experience of working in a GP surgery would be beneficial but not essential.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Receptionist/Telephonist in Stowmarket employer: Stowhealth
Contact Detail:
Stowhealth Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Receptionist/Telephonist in Stowmarket
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the practice! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Stowhealth. Familiarise yourself with their services and values. This will help you show genuine interest and tailor your responses to fit their culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. Focus on how your skills match the role of a receptionist/telephonist, especially handling enquiries and maintaining confidentiality.
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! First impressions matter, so make sure you look professional and approachable. A smart outfit can boost your confidence and show that you take the opportunity seriously.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’d be a perfect fit!
We think you need these skills to ace Receptionist/Telephonist in Stowmarket
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for the role and how you can contribute to our friendly team.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills. Refer to the job description and match your abilities with what we’re looking for in a receptionist/telephonist.
Keep It Clear and Concise: We appreciate clarity! Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points if necessary to make it easy for us to see your qualifications and experiences at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Stowhealth
✨Know the Practice Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research Stowhealth. Familiarise yourself with their services, values, and the specific role of a receptionist/telephonist. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the practice.
✨Practice Your Phone Etiquette
Since handling telephone enquiries is a key part of the job, practice your phone etiquette. You could role-play with a friend or family member, simulating common patient queries. This will help you feel more confident and prepared to handle real calls during the interview.
✨Highlight Your Administrative Skills
Make sure to showcase any relevant administrative experience you have. Be ready to discuss how you've managed data entry, appointment scheduling, or patient interactions in previous roles. Use specific examples to illustrate your skills and how they align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Emphasise Confidentiality and Professionalism
Given the sensitive nature of the role, be prepared to discuss how you would maintain confidentiality and professionalism when dealing with patient information. Share any past experiences where you successfully handled confidential information, as this will demonstrate your understanding of the importance of privacy in a healthcare setting.