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Healthcare is a rewarding profession with many different opportunities available. Ophthalmology is a unique field within healthcare. There are plenty of different subspecialties within the ophthalmology field and many directions you can take in your career. Additionally, no matter what your role is, you have the power to help someone every day.
If you’re interested in getting started on a rewarding career path with plenty of different roles you can take in the field, you’re likely wondering where to start and what the roles are like. Today, we’re digging into the details of our front office positions. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about rewarding ophthalmology jobs!
Front Office Role Overview
In most cases, team members who work in a front office ophthalmology job are the first faces patients see when they walk in the door. They’re the ones who schedule patients, check them in and out for their appointments, and keep operations running smoothly in the front of the house. Needless to say, front office team members are critical to Vision Integrated Partners (VIP).
Job Titles
Ophthalmology job titles for front office roles vary depending on the business unit; however, the expectations and responsibilities are similar. Some common front office job titles include:
- Front desk specialist
- Medical receptionist/front desk
- Ophthalmology receptionist
- Patient coordinator/medical front desk administrator
- Front office patient coordinator
- Medical office receptionist
What a Typical Day Looks Like
Front office roles are the face of the business unit because these team members are often the first ones patients see when they come into the office. Because those in this position communicate with patients, their families, and those working in the back of the house, a friendly attitude and great customer service are important.
Front office responsibilities vary between practices and ambulatory surgery centers. The responsibilities in our medical practices generally include checking patients in and out for their appointments as well as scheduling upcoming appointments.
Front office team members are responsible for collecting the patient’s demographic and insurance information, then accurately entering and filing this information. They are also required to verify the patient’s insurance and obtain necessary authorizations.
A typical day involves collecting copays, deductibles, and any remaining balances on a patient’s account. Our front office team is also responsible for dispensing contact lenses to patients and opening and closing the practice.
What Does VIP Look for in a Front Office Candidate?
Even if you don’t have a lot of experience in healthcare, if you have a proven track record of being great in a hospitality setting and a drive to help others, a front office position may be a great fit for you. Keep reading to find out the essential qualities and background needed for entry-level ophthalmology jobs.
Background
A high school diploma or GED is essential for our front office workers. A background in hospitality is extremely helpful. While customer service and communication skills are important in any industry, they’re especially important in healthcare, where you’re communicating with patients, their families, and your coworkers every day.
Empathy and Communication
The ability to empathize with and understand patients and the difficult situations they’re facing is key, as is a caring, patient, and friendly attitude, whether you’re answering the phone or greeting a patient at the door. We look for stellar communication skills, both verbal and written.
Teamwork
Are you good at working on a team? You’re going to be working with others quite a bit and have the support of others who will uplift you and help ensure your success and the organization’s success.
Go-Getters
Even though we look for team-oriented candidates, the ability to self-manage and be a problem solver is also key. We appreciate go-getters who are ready and willing to step in and learn everything they can!
Attention to Detail
Because our front office employees collect and file a lot of important information, attention to detail and accuracy are critical, especially when handling multiple projects at one time. This also means written communications should be free of errors, so those grammar skills and excellent writing capabilities you picked up in high school will come in handy!
Explore Rewarding Ophthalmology Jobs
Doing what you love and have a passion for is important. Learn what working in ophthalmology jobs at VIP is like. We’re actively hiring and are always on the lookout for top talent to join our medical practices and ambulatory surgery centers. Think you’ve got what it takes? Explore our roles and apply today to join our team of employees who love working in ophthalmology!
