Medical Assistant

Organization: Vecinos, Inc. Address: 19 Smoky Mountain Drive, Franklin, NC 28734 Phone: (828) 293-2274 Website: www.vecinos.org Position: Medical Assistant Location: Franklin, NC and surrounding areas Compensation: $17-$22 per hour Benefits: Insurance, Retirement and Vacation Classification: Non-Exempt, Permanent, Full-Time Organization Description: Vecinos is a non-profit, 501(c)3 Free Clinic that provides bilingual integrated primary and mental health care, mobile clinic services, health education, and case management to uninsured, low-income adults in the far-western NC counties.

We offer a positive, supportive, and team-oriented atmosphere. We work in a non-traditional environment with limited resources. Schedules and hours vary throughout the year. Purpose: The Medical Assistant (MA) provides essential clinical and administrative support in a free clinic setting, ensuring that patients receive timely and compassionate care.

The MA assists healthcare providers by performing patient intake, preparing patients for exams, assisting with procedures, managing medical records, and performing routine office tasks. This role is integral to maintaining the smooth operation of the clinic and ensuring high-quality care for underserved and uninsured populations, particularly Latinx and agricultural worker communities.

Job Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive patient intake, including obtaining medical histories, vital signs, and identifying primary concerns. Prepare patients for exams and assist providers during medical evaluations and minor procedures. As needed, perform routine clinical tasks such as blood draws, vaccinations, and point-of-care testing in accordance with protocols.

Provide patient education regarding medical procedures, treatment plans, and self-care, under the supervision of healthcare providers. Coordinate patient scheduling to ensure efficient provider workflows and a smooth, timely patient experience. Maintain accurate and up-to-date records by entering data into the electronic health record (EHR) system and grant database systems as needed.

Process medical documentation, including forms, referrals, and prescriptions, while adhering to clinic procedures and privacy standards. Support front desk operations by greeting patients, answering phones, and responding to inquiries, fostering a welcoming and confidential clinic environment. Collaborate with providers, nurses, and support staff to ensure seamless clinical operations and optimal patient care.

Facilitate patient referrals and follow-ups, including scheduling specialist appointments and communicating lab results. Participate in regular team meetings to contribute insights on patient care coordination, workflow efficiency, and clinic best practices. Uphold the mission of the clinic by promoting a respectful, inclusive, and patient-centered environment.

Required Qualifications Bilingual fluency in English and Spanish. Experience in a community health or free clinic setting, working with underserved populations. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) and medical office software. Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage with diverse populations.

Ability to be flexible, multitask, prioritize, and work effectively as a team member in a fast-paced environment. Basic knowledge of medical terminology, procedures, and office systems. Ability to maintain patient confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA guidelines. Strong organizational and time management skills. Cultural sensitivity, a caring and confident demeanor, flexibility, dependability, excellent written and verbal communication skills, a professional attitude, desire to serve uninsured/underserved populations.

Experience drawing blood and/or giving vaccines experience Preferred Qualifications Certification as a Medical Assistant (CMA, RMA, or equivalent) or relevant experience in a medical assistant role. Knowledge of farmworker health issues and cultural sensitivity working with Latino communities. Working Conditions Flexible Work Hours: Willingness to work late nights, weekends, and nontraditional hours to support clinic activities and community events, ensuring accessibility for all patients.

Non-traditional Work Environments: Ability to work in diverse, non-clinical settings across Western North Carolina (WNC), including homes, mobile clinics, community centers, and other local venues, adapting to the unique needs of each environment. Local Travel Requirements: Frequent travel to local community sites for mobile clinic activities, including patient home visits.

A valid driver’s license and reliable transportation are required to navigate various locations effectively. Physical Requirements: Must be able to stand for long periods of time and assist with patient mobility.