Answer phones promptly and professionally using a multi-line phone system
Receive and transmit faxes
Take and deliver messages promptly to appropriate staff, pulling medical records of patients so staff can properly document information
Note in medical records the details discussed during client conversations including the date, time, key points of the discussion and any action required
Check medical and computer records for accurate client addresses, phone numbers and e-mails.
Weigh pets each visit and record weights in medical records and on computer
Schedule boarding/grooming appointments according to hospital scheduling guidelines
Answer clients’ questions about veterinary services and products and provide knowledgeable advice about wellness, prevention and disease
Fill prescriptions and provide routine administration instructions to clients
Always refer to the veterinarian as doctor; never use the doctor’s first name in the presence of clients
Prepare consent forms, estimates/treatment plans and be able to discuss the hospital’s financial policies with clients
Prepare health certificates and/or proof of vaccination as requested by the client
Advise clients on proper nutrition, flea/tick/heartworm preventatives, pre-anesthetic testing, pain management, shampoos, home dental products and other retail items
Maintain a clean, neat reception area and front desk
Explain invoices to show value for the care provided, stating all services and products before the total
Collect payment when services are rendered, including making change for cash payments, processing credit cards and getting proper ID for checks
Know fees for routine services
Retrieve, update and file patient medical records
Clean up after pets’ accidents in the reception area, exam rooms and exterior sidewalks
Water and maintain plants in waiting exam rooms
Collect specimens that clients bring in for lab analysis, label and take to the lab area. Note the date and time of specimen collection in the appropriate hospital log to ensure they are completed and the client is notified of the results. Place corresponding medical file in appropriate area.
Recognize emergency situations, enlisting the aid of doctors and technicians
Wear personal protective equipment required for each job duty and keep PPE in good working order. PPE includes goggles or face shields, aprons, gloves and/or other equipment assigned.
Provide facility tours for clients, explain services offered
Maintain food and supply storage
Understand infectious diseases and how to control and prevent their spread
Communicate with clients in person and on the phone
Attend monthly mandatory staff meetings
Attend mandatory continuing education seminars
Requirements
High school diploma or equivalent, some college preferred
Minimum age requirement of 18 years old
Ability to read and comprehend instructions
Experience in caring for animals, proper restraint techniques preferred
Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions and decimals
Ability to work with computer-based veterinary software