What does an Unit Secretary do?
A unit secretary is an administrative position commonly held within hospitals or other specialized medical departments. They assist in supporting patients and medical staff by answering incoming calls, organizing charts and admitting new patients. A unit secretary uses their knowledge of medical terminology and billing to manage the office efficiently. A unit secretary usually has a background in medical office processes and procedures and advances into the position after time spent as a medical office assistant.
A high school diploma or equivalent degree is required to be considered for the position. Depending upon the specific department serviced, a professional certification in medical billing or terminology can be required. Individuals with exceptional communication skills and the ability to support busy medical personnel tend to excel in this role.
- Greet new and existing patients upon their arrival for appointments or procedures
- Schedule patient appointments, both new and follow-up
- Make copies and fax paperwork to other medical offices upon receiving an official request for records
- Review patient insurance documents and determine what procedures will be covered in addition to required deductibles
- Organize and maintain patient files and records, retrieve test results as needed for physician's review
- Coordinate with other departments within the hospital to schedule MRIs, x-rays or bloodwork
- Call patients to inform them of upcoming appointments and reschedule as needed
- Prepare patient files and charts in anticipation of discharges and transfers to other physicians or departments
- High school diploma or equivalent degree is required
- Exceptional knowledge of medical terminology and hospital processes
- Maintain and order office and medical supplies as requested by attending hospital staff
- Experience scheduling patient appointments in accordance with doctor's availability and providing the patient with instructions prior to procedures
- Organize and add detailed information to the personal calendar of physicians and other members of the hospital staff
- Ability to effectively work within medical record software and update files accurately
- Experience working in data entry software and maintaining detailed information regarding available stock and supplies
- Experience maintaining a professional level of patient privacy in accordance with HIPAA procedures
- Strong written and communication skills when speaking with patients and physicians
How much does an Unit Secretary make?
Base Pay
Additional Pay
$38,272
/ yrUnit Secretary Career Path
Learn how to become an Unit Secretary, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Unit Secretary Insights
Saratoga Hospital“Really amazing people who genuinely care and don’t let personal issues overshadow the care received.”
Scarborough Health Network“Some people are nice and pleasant to work with.”
“It was nice working there and an intern”
Envision Unlimited“Management wasn't the best and I wasn't trained well for my position”
UnityPoint Health“Schedule is not compatible with good work/life balance.”
Steward Health Care System“they did a hospital wide raise at the end of 2021 but was not competitive.”
“Great place to work and everyone supports each other.”
VCU Health“Pay is not the best”
Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of an Unit Secretary
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