Expectations for a Medical Administrative Assistant Externship

Moving into the role of a medical administrative assistant can be both exhilarating and challenging. One of the most valuable learning experiences you can have is through an externship, which provides hands-on training in a real-world office setting. However, it's crucial to understand the expectations and responsibilities you'll face during this externship. Here’s what you can expect:

The Role of an Extern

As an extern, you will often be treated as a full-time employee in the office, especially if you are spending an extended period at the facility. This means adhering to the same rules and expectations as any other employee. Key points to remember include:

Professionalism: Maintain a professional attitude at all times, both in your interactions with patients and with your coworkers.

Regular Attendance: Be on time and ready to work from the start of your shift until the end. Avoid leaving early without permission.

Lunch Breaks: Respect the company’s lunch policies, which may not allow for extended break times.

Initiative: Show your willingness to learn and improve your skills. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and take on new responsibilities.

Practical Expectations

While your externship is an opportunity for you to apply what you've learned in a practical setting, you can't be expected to know everything right away. Here's what you should be prepared to do:

Understanding Office Duties: Be prepared to learn and adapt to the specific duties and routines of the office. This may include electronic health record (EHR) systems, answering phones, scheduling appointments, and other administrative tasks.

Patience and Persistence: Acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge takes time. Be patient with yourself and persistent in your learning.

Initiative: Take the initiative to demonstrate your willingness to contribute to the office's operations. This could involve offering to help in areas where you feel confident or taking on additional responsibilities as they arise.

Feedback and Performance

Your externship is not just about providing support; it's also about receiving feedback and improving your performance. The externship is a chance for you to showcase your skills and dedication, but it's also an opportunity for the office to evaluate your suitability for the position. How you handle the externship will significantly impact your chances of securing a permanent position:

Positive Recommendations: Your willingness to learn and your positive attitude often lead to glowing recommendations. Demonstrating enthusiasm and a commitment to excellence can open doors for you.

Performance Expectations: Your performance during the externship will be closely monitored. It's important to take the externship seriously and show that you are a responsible and capable assistant.

Disciplinary Actions: Conversely, if you don’t meet the expectations or don't show a genuine desire to learn, it may result in your dismissal or negative feedback, which could impact your future opportunities.

Conclusion

Embarking on an externship as a medical administrative assistant is a fantastic opportunity to gain practical experience and professional growth. Your behavior, attitude, and performance during the externship can strongly influence your future in the medical field. By being proactive, respectful, and committed to learning, you can make the most of this valuable experience and set yourself up for success.