Medical Secretaries
Medical Secretaries are responsible for the administrative and clerical work in medical offices, hospitals, other medical facilities, or private physician offices.They keep records, answer phone calls, order supplies, handle correspondence, bill patients, complete insurance forms, and transcribe dictation.
They may keep financial records and handle credits, collections, and other bookkeeping duties.
They greet patients, schedule appointments, obtain medical histories, arrange hospital admissions, and schedule surgeries.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Type between 60 and 90 words per minute.
- Know medical terms and office procedures.
- Computer literacy and the ability to use medical software programs.
- Good written and verbal communication skills and basic math skills.
- Ability to complete and explain medical insurance forms.
- Good judgment and discretion in dealing with confidential medical records.
- Confidence in dealing with the public, both in person and on the telephone.
Wages
- Medical Secretaries Median hourly wage: $15.66
- Average annual wage: $32,931
Job Outlook
- Estimated number of Medical Secretaries in 2002: 36,700
- Estimated number of Medical Secretaries in 2012: 41,300
- Estimated annual job openings: 1,160
Possible Career Paths Medical Secretaries include becoming a:
- Medical Coder
- Medical Transcriptionist
- Administrative Assistant or Unit Manager Executive Secretary