Medical administrative assistants play a vital role in healthcare settings. They perform front-office duties and help manage the daily workflow in a healthcare facility. They are also known as medical receptionists or medical office assistants.

The job description usually includes tasks such as scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, and being the first point of contact for patients—by phone or in person.

Where Medical Administrative Assistants Work in Alaska

In Alaska, medical administrative assistants find employment in various settings, including:

• Hospitals and Medical Centers: Major employers include Providence Alaska Medical Center and Alaska Native Medical Center in Anchorage, plus regional hospitals in Fairbanks and Juneau.
• Specialty Clinics and Outpatient Facilities: Clinics focused on areas like cardiology, women’s health, and telehealth rely on support from Medical Administrative Assistants.
• Private Practices and Group Practices: Smaller medical offices across Alaska depend on administrative staff for smooth patient flow.‍
• Rural and Community Health Clinics: Clinics supported by organizations like the Alaska Primary Care Association and Southcentral Foundation serve remote communities and often hire medical administrative assistants.

The job duties of a medical administrative assistant can vary depending on the setting, but typically include:

• Scheduling, confirming, and rescheduling patient appointments
• Organizing and updating medical records
• Answering phones and directing calls
• Helping patients check in and move through the office
• Explaining billing and insurance coverage
• Submitting and tracking claims
• Maintaining office supplies and organizing the workspace
• Assisting patients with filling out forms and paperwork

Alaska does not require certification for medical administrative assistants. However, obtaining the CMAA credential is highly recommended.

Certification demonstrates that you have the knowledge and skills needed, which makes you a more competitive job applicant and helps you earn a higher starting salary. According to the NHA, 84% of employers require or encourage certification for Medical Administrative Assistants.

To qualify for the CMAA exam, you must meet these criteria:

• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Have completed a medical administrative assistant training or education program, like Stepful’s, within the past 5 years

or

• Have 1 year of supervised work experience in the field within the last 3 years, or 2 years of supervised work experience in the field within the past 5 years