Dental Office Specialist (FHC)

Dental Receptionist

Under close supervision, performs technical clerical work in a community dental health setting. Responsible for receiving, admitting, and registering patients for dental care services at Family Health Centers (FHC).

Assists new and established patients in obtaining dental records from previous providers. Identifies patients with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) and / or other communication barriers and uses appropriate interpretive services. Documents as appropriate on the dental record, forms, and / or computer the required documentation related to language services. Schedules interpreters for patients for their dental visit. Inventories and orders dental office supplies. Receives patients and directs them to the appropriate area. Schedules patient appointments in the Practice Management System (PMS). Answers telephone promptly and directs calls to the appropriate personnel. Records patient cancellations and no-shows in the PMS. Verifies and records patient demographics and medical history. Initiates dental charts for new patients. Identifies and copies patients' dental insurance plans. Maintains a daily log of patients. Collects and processes cash, check, and credit cards payments. Prepares daily cash report and balances cash drawer at the end of each shift. Provides information on FHC patient programs, policies, and procedures. Manages appointments for multiple providers and rooms. Confers with on-site personnel to work same-day patients into daily schedule. Collects patient intake information and enters it into the PMS. Relays messages regarding provider visits and services to the appropriate personnel. Processes requests for referrals. Sends referrals to the appropriate providers. Maintains referrals in the patient record. Adheres to standard precautions. Performs related work as required.

High school graduation or its equivalent. Six months of clinical / clerical experience in a health care setting OR certification from a dental receptionist training program or Allied Health training program. An equivalent combination of training and experience may be substituted, as determined applicable by Civil Service. Responds to patient and Family Health Centers needs via the telephone, internet, fax, computer software and in person. Lifts and carries materials weighing up to 15 lbs. Spends extended periods of time sitting, standing, walking, climbing, stooping, bending, and reaching. Spends extended periods of time typing and reading computer screens. Identifies medical / dental record documentation, requests, and / or releases. Must wear personal protective equipment (PPE), as mandated by OSHA and / or FHC. Must provide own transportation to work at other locations as needed. Must be available to work a varied schedule, including Saturdays and / or evenings, as needed.