Medical Receptionist in Whickham

The Whickham Practice have a vacancy for a Medical Receptionist to join our very busy practice team. We are looking for someone enthusiastic, hard-working and conscientious. You must have good customer service skills, empathy and enjoy working within a team.

Main aspects of the role are to receive, assist and direct patients in accessing the appropriate service or healthcare professional in a courteous, efficient and effective way. The successful applicant will be required to work between the hours of 8.00am-7.30pm on a rota basis. Flexibility is an essential requirement as you may be required to cover annual leave or sickness absence. The post is part-time - 30 hours over 5 days. Previous medical reception experience is preferred.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

• Able to work at a fast pace dealing with patients on the telephone and front desk.
• Able to use own initiative and also work as part of a team.
• Ability to learn new systems quickly.
• Respond to all queries and requests for assistance from patients and visitors.
• Provide excellent customer service.
• Must be able to multitask and respond positively to change.
• Ensure reception and waiting areas are kept neat and tidy.
• Ensure that all telephone calls are answered efficiently and effectively in a professional manner.
• Demonstrate the core values of the practice.
• Be flexible as may be required to cover for sickness, holidays etc.
• An understanding, acceptance and adherence to the need for strict confidentiality.

We are a single site practice working from a purpose-built surgery and we look after approximately 15,800 patients. Our team comprises of 5 partners, 4 salaried doctors, a Paediatric Advanced Nurse Practitioner, Practice nurses, Health care assistants, a phlebotomist, 2 GP assistants and well supported by a full complement of highly experienced administrators and reception staff.

As a Practice we encourage and support staff development. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer Sponsorship.

Job Responsibilities:

• Act as point of contact for patients and a focal point of communication between patients, doctors and other staff.
• Respond promptly and politely to all requests for assistance from patients and visitors.
• Explain practice services to new patients, temporary residents and people requiring emergency necessary treatment.
• Register patients recording all relevant details accurately and comprehensively on the EMIS computer system.
• Receive specimens from patients and carry out relevant administrative duties.
• Advise patients of relevant charges for private medical services. Accept payment and issue receipts.
• Log requests for home visits on to the computer appointment system, include all relevant information.
• Refer requests for urgent visits to the Duty Doctor in line with written protocol.
• Accept and record requests for prescriptions from patients.
• Process written requests for repeat prescriptions and cover prescription line during periods of absence.
• Action requests for ambulance transport, record all relevant details on computer and email request to ambulance headquarters.
• Scan incoming correspondence on to EMIS computer system in line with practice guidelines.
• Answer patient enquiries for test results following the practice protocol.
• Maintain total familiarity with all appointment systems operating within the Practice.
• Maintain accurate filing system in line with practice policy.
• Receive and make telephone calls as required in line with Reception Guidelines.
• Prepare Reception in readiness for the Surgery being open for patients.

Your position brings you into contact with information which is personal and confidential. Under no circumstances must this information be discussed or divulged. A breach of confidentiality is a dismissable offence.

Person Specification:

• GCSE grade A to C in English and Maths.
• NVQ level 2 or 3 in business admin.
• Use of EMIS computer software.
• Keyboard and computer skills.
• Ability to use own judgement and make decisions.
• Ability to prioritise work.
• Displays positive and professional attitude.
• Able to work under pressure.
• Flexibility of working hours/able to work at the desired times.
• Experience of working in a public reception environment.
• Ability to work without direct supervision and determine own workload priorities.

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 to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Depending on experience £12.84 starting rate of pay increasing to £12.96.