What they do
Medical receptionists work at the front desk of medical practices, health facilities or hospitals greeting visitors and answering phone queries. They work for organisations of all sizes in the healthcare sector throughout Western Australia. Medical receptionist duties include making patient bookings, processing billing and settling accounts, managing and updating patients’ medical records, and communicating with general practitioners, nurses and other health staff. They maintain the reception area, as well as receiving and resolving complains from clients and the public. Medical receptions need to have an understanding of medical terminology.
Working conditions
Medical receptionists are the first contact that patients and customers have with a medical practice, facility or hospital, so they need to present the appropriate image for the organisation. They usually work at a desk in the front office area of the medical facility. Medical receptionists usually work standard business hours, Monday to Friday. However, they may be required to work evenings and weekends, depending on the practice’s business hours.
Tools and technologies
Medical receptionists often use complex phone systems with multiple incoming lines extensions to other offices within the healthcare facility. They use a variety of standard office equipment such as computers, EFTPOS machines, photocopiers, scanners and fax machines. They are also required to use a variety of healthcare software systems to record patient data and process payments.
How do I become one?
Education and training
To become a medical receptionist, you usually need to gain a qualification in business or medical business administration.
The Certificate III and IV in Business and the Certificate III in Business Administration (Medical) are offered at TAFE colleges and other registered training organisations throughout Western Australia. To find a training provider near you, browse the Jobs and Skills WA website or visit the My Skills website.
You can also undertake a traineeship in medical administration. The traineeship usually takes 12 months to complete.
Apprenticeships and traineeships
As an apprentice or trainee, you enter into a formal training contract with an employer, enabling you to complete training towards a nationally recognised qualification. You spend time working and learning practical skills on the job and you spend some time undertaking structured training with a registered training provider.
You can do an apprenticeship or traineeship if you are a school-leaver, re-entering the workforce or as an adult or mature-aged person wishing to change careers. You can even begin your apprenticeship or traineeship while you're still at school.
If you are still at school you can access an apprenticeship through your school. Talk to your school's VET Co-ordinator to start your training now through VET in Schools. If you are no longer at school you can apply for an apprenticeship or traineeship and get paid while you learn and work.