Certified Medical Assistant

Medical Assistant / Receptionist

Transitions Clinic of Sacramento – Oak Park, Sacramento, CA

Position Overview

Transitions Clinic of Sacramento is a harm reduction–based, low-barrier, full-scope outpatient addiction treatment clinic located in Oak Park and serving the Sacramento community. We are committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals with substance use disorders in a respectful and nonjudgmental environment.

The Medical Assistant/Receptionist serves as the front line of the clinic and plays a critical role in both patient experience and operational integrity. This position is often the first point of contact for patients, community partners, and vendors, and therefore sets the tone for all interactions within the clinic.

This role requires a high level of professionalism, organization, communication skills, and emotional intelligence. The ideal candidate demonstrates empathy, maintains strong boundaries, and consistently treats all patients with dignity, respect, and unconditional positive regard. Your engagement may directly influence whether a patient chooses to enter or remain in treatment.

This position supports both clinical and administrative workflows and ensures that daily operations are conducted efficiently and in compliance with applicable regulations.

Duties and responsibilities may be modified at the discretion of the clinic.

Key Responsibilities

Patient Engagement & Front Desk Operations

• Greet, engage, and support patients in a welcoming, trauma-informed manner
• Serve as the primary point of contact for patients, prospective patients, and visitors
• Answer and triage incoming phone calls using a professional, patient-centered approach
• Schedule, reschedule, and confirm appointments
• Provide patients with resources, clinic information, and frequently asked questions

Clinical Support

• Perform patient intake and discharge processes
• Check in and room patients in preparation for provider visits
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the electronic medical record (EMR)
• Assist with coordination of care and patient flow

Administrative & Operational Duties

• Maintain patient accounts, including demographic and insurance information
• Receive and process payments in accordance with clinic policy
• Prepare and manage internal cash deposits
• Monitor and respond to incoming faxes, emails, and patient communications
• Support administrative staff with correspondence, phone outreach, and scheduling
• Manage inventory and supply levels
• Open and close clinic operations in accordance with established procedures

Compliance & Quality

• Perform all duties in compliance with HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, and clinic policies
• Maintain confidentiality and security of all patient information
• Ensure accuracy in documentation, scheduling, and financial transactions

Team Contribution

• Collaborate effectively with clinical and administrative staff
• Contribute to a positive, mission-driven team environment
• Perform other duties as assigned to support clinic operations

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Completion of an accredited Medical Assistant training program with valid certification
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in addiction medicine or a similar healthcare setting
• Working knowledge of medical terminology, HIPAA regulations, and basic coding concepts (ICD/CPT)
• Proficiency with electronic medical records (EMR) systems
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including proper grammar and professional correspondence
• Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with diverse populations, including individuals experiencing substance use disorders, mental health challenges, or acute distress

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in substance use disorder (SUD) treatment settings
• Familiarity with harm reduction principles
• Training in trauma-informed care and/or motivational interviewing
• Experience with SmartCare or similar behavioral health EMR systems
• Experience with Medi-Cal and commercial billing processes, including:
• Front-end insurance eligibility verification (e.g., Medi-Cal via MEDS/eligibility portals and commercial payers)
• Prior authorization and referral requirements
• Understanding of basic billing workflows, including charge entry, claim submission, and denial follow-up
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and multi-line phone systems

Core Competencies

• Patient-centered communication and customer service
• Organization and time management
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
• Professionalism and discretion
• Flexibility and adaptability

Compensation (California Pay Transparency)

• Hourly Range: $23.00 – $25.00 per hour
• Final compensation is determined based on experience, qualifications, certifications, and internal equity

Benefits Summary

Eligible employees may receive access to the following benefits (subject to plan terms and eligibility requirements):

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Ancillary benefits (e.g., life insurance, Employee Assistance Program)
• Paid time off (PTO) and paid sick leave in accordance with California law
• Paid holidays
• Retirement plan options
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities

Work Schedule

This position requires flexibility to support clinic operations, including:

• Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (rotating evening hours required)
• Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Saturday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (rotating or assigned shifts)

Schedule may vary based on clinic needs. Occasional schedule adjustments may be required.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting and working at a computer
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds as needed

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Transitions Clinic of Sacramento is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

Pay: $23.00 - $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person