Chiropractic assistant jobs fall into two basic categories, either as an office assistant or clinical assistant. Both types of chiropractic assistant jobs involve distinct duties that might overlap in small offices with one chiropractor on duty. Clinical chiropractic assistant jobs might entail helping the doctor with direct patient care. Office chiropractic assistant jobs are usually confined to administrative duties to keep the business running smoothly.
Clinical or medical assistants might check patients’ vital signs and question them about their medical histories, including information about surgeries, medication use, and health conditions. They usually take responsibility for preparing examination rooms and making sure any equipment the doctor might need is available. Some clinical assistants operate X-ray or ultrasound equipment for diagnostic purposes.
Special certification might be necessary in some regions for assistants who use radiation. Certification might also apply to medical chiropractic assistants who draw blood for laboratory testing and give injections. Certification might consist of basic or advanced levels.
Assistants might also handle educating patients about chiropractic techniques and exercises recommended as part of the treatment plan. In some offices, the assistant applies heat, ice therapy, or massage. Electrical stimulation of muscles might be handled by assistants in some offices.
Office chiropractic assistant jobs generally involve scheduling appointments and greeting patients when they arrive. The assistant typically collects payments and bills insurance companies for chiropractic services. He or she usually keeps track of medical records and might transcribe doctor reports. In some offices, the assistant handles payroll and other human resource duties, which might include employee benefit plans.
These assistants typically need good computer skills, which could require knowledge of specific software programs. Knowledge of standard medical codes used by insurance companies might also be necessary. Office workers commonly keep accurate records of expenses and payments, and might take on collection duties. They generally serve as the contact person between the doctor and patient.
Most people working for chiropractors must complete secondary school education. Clinical assistants might need prior experience in a doctor’s office or knowledge of physical therapy. Some doctors want assistants who have completed courses in medical terminology, anatomy, or business. Certification may or may not be required, depending on individual chiropractic assistant jobs. Continuing education classes usually ensure certification remains valid.
