"What do medical receptionists actually do?"

When I tell people that I am a medical receptionist they assume that I just sit at the front desk and have an unsolicited attitude. This is far from true. I have stopped telling people the strange and rude encounters that have happened throughout the day, because from an outsider's point of view it just sounds whiny. To fully grasp the frustration of the job you must understand the daily issues that we deal with at the front desk.This blog is here to provide you, the reader, more information about what goes on every day at a doctor's office. I will be here to show you why every little thing matters in our job and what you as a patient can do to improve your visit at your next doctors visit. 

Here's a list of what the front desk is NOT:

• Someone who throws away trash for you - There is usually a lobby trashcan, please search for one before handing your used gum to us.
• A babysitter- I'm sorry that you are sick in the middle of the day and had to bring your children to your appointment, but we are too busy to watch your kids and help with the medical emergencies that we encounter daily.
• Your medicine cabinet- Yes we have a list of your medications on file, but we do not have a list of which medications you have not been keeping up with or you decided not to take. Please bring a list of the medications you are currently taking. "The little yellow pill that has a 300 on it" does not help.
• Your insurance company- We cannot change your copay or your benefits. I'm sorry that your insurance policy is not the greatest, but we didn't chose your insurance for you.
• Your personal assistant- We offer you a variety of appointments, give you a reminder card, and before the appointment you receive a reminder call on the number you have provided to us. I'm sorry that you missed your appointment but we are not there to hold your hand every day.

These are just a few of the things that are dealt with each day with just about every patient. As this blog continues I'll give examples as to what a typical day is, how to treat the front desk, and how to have a pleasant experience at your next follow up. Please feel free to leave any comments or questions that you may have.Stay tuned!