Job Description
Medical Assistant – Methadone Treatment Clinic Outpatient Opioid Treatment Program (OTP) Position Overview The Medical Assistant supports daily clinical operations within an outpatient Opioid Treatment Program (OTP). This position plays a critical role in ensuring safe medication workflows, accurate clinical documentation, and respectful, patient-centered care for individuals receiving methadone and related services. The Medical Assistant collaborates closely with nursing staff, medical providers, counselors, and administrative personnel to maintain a compliant, efficient, and supportive clinical environment in accordance with federal, state, and regulatory standards. Key Responsibilities Patient Intake and Clinical Support Obtain and document vital signs and collect blood samples as required Verify patient identity and update medical histories in the electronic medical record (EMR) Obtain and coordinate external medical records to support continuity of care Prepare patients for provider and nursing evaluations Medication Dispensing Support Maintain cleanliness, organization, and safety within the dosing area Adhere strictly to all medication safety and clinic protocols Clinical Documentation and EMR Management Accurately enter and maintain patient information within EMR systems Ensure compliance with HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, and federal OTP documentation requirements Maintain confidentiality and data integrity at all times Specimen Collection and Laboratory Coordination Perform urine drug screens following established chain-of-custody procedures Print laboratory requisitions and create new patient laboratory accounts as needed Coordinate specimen handling in accordance with clinic and laboratory standards Patient Education and Engagement Reinforce clinic policies, dosing schedules, and general health guidance as directed by medical, nursing, or clinical staff Support patient understanding of treatment processes in a professional and respectful manner Multidisciplinary Team Coordination Communicate effectively with nurses, counselors, providers, and administrative staff Support continuity of care and timely clinical operations Safety, Compliance, and Regulatory Adherence Follow all applicable DEA, SAMHSA, New York State, and OTP regulatory requirements Promptly report safety, compliance, or workflow concerns to supervisory staff Operational and Frontline Support Assist with patient flow, appointment reminders, and general clinic operations Maintain a calm, organized, and efficient clinical environment Provider and Administrative Support Assist providers with prior authorizations and coordination with pharmacies Communicate appointment information to patients Schedule in-person and telehealth appointments as directed Required Qualifications Current New York State Medical Assistant Certification Current Phlebotomy Certification Minimum of two (2) years of experience in a clinical or healthcare setting Experience with electronic medical records (EMR) systems Knowledge of HIPAA and patient confidentiality standards Preferred Qualifications Experience in substance use treatment, behavioral health, or opioid treatment programs Familiarity with federal and state OTP regulations Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills Physical and Work Environment Requirements Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive clinical tasks Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism Comfortable working in a fast-paced, regulated clinical environment