Department: Medical and Administrative Support
Reports To: Unit Manager or Nursing Supervisor
Employment Status: Can vary from part-time, full-time, to on-call, based on the healthcare facility’s operational requirements.
Compensation: The salary for unit secretaries is influenced by factors such as experience, location, size of the facility, and specific departmental needs. As of the last update, in the U.S., the average annual salary for a unit secretary ranges between $25,000 and $40,000.
Position Overview
A Unit Secretary is an indispensable part of a medical unit, ensuring smooth administrative operations and patient care coordination. They act as a nexus between medical staff, patients, and visitors, facilitating communications and administrative functions that support optimal patient care and efficient unit operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Patient Records: Maintain and update patient charts, ensuring all documentation is correctly filed and easily accessible.
- Scheduling: Coordinate and schedule patient tests, treatments, or surgeries, liaising with other departments.
- Communication: Serve as the primary point of contact for the unit, answering phones, relaying messages, and assisting with inquiries.
- Supply Management: Monitor and order medical and office supplies as needed.
- Admission and Discharge: Assist in the patient admission and discharge process, ensuring all paperwork is complete.
- Collaboration: Work closely with nursing and medical staff to coordinate patient care activities.
- Data Entry: Input patient information, treatment details, and other data into the facility’s electronic health record system.
- Visitor Management: Guide and assist visitors, ensuring they comply with hospital regulations.
Qualifications
- A high school diploma or its equivalent, with some facilities requiring post-secondary training in medical secretarial tasks.
- Prior experience in a clinical or medical office setting can be advantageous.
- Familiarity with medical terminology.
- Proficiency with electronic health record systems and general computer software.
- Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Benefits
- Healthcare Benefits: Access to comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision.
- Retirement Plans: Participation in retirement savings plans, such as 401(k), with potential employer match contributions.
- Paid Leave: Accumulative paid time off, including vacations, sick days, and hospital-recognized holidays.
- Educational Assistance: Opportunities for professional development and reimbursement for courses or training.
- Employee Assistance Programs: Access to counselling and various support services.
- Discount Programs: Reduced rates or discounts on hospital services, medications, or other wellness programs.
- Flexible Scheduling: Options to choose from different shifts, aiding in work-life balance.
A Unit Secretary is the backbone of hospital operations, bridging the gap between administrative tasks and clinical care. Their role requires diligence, organization, and a knack for clear communication, ensuring that medical professionals can focus on patient care knowing that the administrative details are well-managed.