The Research Center provides investigators at Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, and numerous affiliated institutions with resources to conduct clinical research. A component of Tufts, the Research Center offers an array of clinical research resources to facilitate investigators' research into the causes, progression, prevention, control and cure of human diseases, and to otherwise translate biomedical research into clinical care.

 

Under general supervision of the Manager, Clinical Trials, the Research Medical Assistant is responsible for continuous, efficient and quality clinical and administrative support in the outpatient clinic setting.   The Research Medical Assistant provides clinical research support within a defined scope, including specimen collection, vital signs, and diagnostic testing, subject to specific protocol requirements.  In addition, the Research Medical Assistant performs specific scheduling, data collection and billing functions for the Research Center.   This position requires flexibility in wor king hours, based upon research and clinic demands.

¨       Coordinates scheduling of study participants manually and electronically when system is available.

¨       Collects accurate and complete demographic information.  Enters data into computer system..

¨       Obtains consent from research study volunteers.

¨       Reviews study protocols when established, and frequently to maintain knowledge of procedures.

¨       Answers telephone calls and screens for appropriate handling. Takes accurate and timely messages.  Schedules patient appointments in appointment book or by utilizing automated scheduling system.

¨       Conducts pre-visit interview with patient.  Uses this information, along with clinic protocols, to anticipate what actions and tests may be needed during the visit.  Performs collection of specimens and/or ensures the necessary supplies and equipment are ready for clinicians to use during the visit.

¨       Performs phlebotomy, including venipuncture and capillary puncture. Takes and records vital signs.

¨       Sets up and performs electrocardiography and respiratory testing. 

¨       Maintains yearly competency in waived testing done in the practice, including: urine dipstick, pregnancy testing, stool guaiac and glucose finger sticks.

¨       Processes specimens according to protocol.

¨       Prepare and administers oral and parenteral medication as specified by study protocol.

¨       Perform sterilization techniques.

¨       Controls and monitors patient flow to maximize efficient use of study personnel and exam rooms.  Responds to variations in patient volume, provider ability, and resources (e.g. early arrivals, no shows, providers who are absent, etc.) by making continual adjustments in room utilization and assignment.

¨       Prepares exam room for each patient, maintaining standard of the practice for stocking and cleanliness.

¨       Prepares study volunteer for research visit.

¨       Must be familiar with procedures in ensuring patient and personal safety. Provides safe, comfortable, clean environment for patients and families.  Uses proper techniques and procedures for hazardous waste disposal, universal precautions and for body mechanics.

¨       Monitors inventory and orders medical supplies as needed.  Maintains equipment and supplies to prevent expiration.

¨       Documents visits and results on encounter form and/or enters study data in computer system.

¨       Prepares principal investigator billing from information gathered on the encounter form. 

¨       Participates in team meetings.  Participates in quality improvement projects.

¨       Participates in ongoing continuing education and maintains certification.

¨       Performs other similar job related duties as required or directed.

 

 

 

Possesses and applies the skills and knowledge necessary to provide care to patients throughout the life span, with consideration of aging processes, human development stages and cultural patterns in each step of the care process. This includes:

 

¨       Knowledge of growth and development

¨       Ability to interpret age specific data and response to care

¨       Provide age specific communication

 

 

¨       Demonstrated organizational skills and attention to detail required. Ability to prioritize work and complete tasks in a timely manner.

¨       Ability to work independently and accurately with excellent follow-through.

¨       Ability to perform a full range of clinical tasks and procedures within the scope of medical assistant, including, vital signs, phlebotomy, electrocardiography, lab specimen processing, injections, CPR and other duties as defined by the Center.

¨       Ability to work under guidance of licensed clinicians.

¨       Ability to apply clinical and administrative skills to a research setting, and to follow research protocols.

¨       Ability to receive, organize, prioritize, store, and maintain transmittable information utilizing electronic technology.  Basic to moderate computer skills: Windows 2007 (Word, Excel, Access), e-mail and automated scheduling software and the ability to navigate through hospital-based computer systems.

¨       Ability to read, write and spell in English to ensure accurate documentation.

¨       Knowledge of business math, ability to make calculations and analytical skills required.

¨       Good interpersonal skills.

¨       Knowledge and ability to use universal precautions and knowledge of patient handling required.

¨       Ability to complete and pass competency exams in waived test list for Clinical Research.

¨       Ability to maintain sensitive and confidential information. Knowledge of HIPAA and research subject protection policies and procedures.

¨       Knowledge of all appropriate regulatory compliance that applies to Clinical Research.

¨       Ability to recognize and respect cultural diversity.

¨       Ability to adapt communications to an individual’s understanding.

¨       Ability to stand and walk 80% of the workday.

¨       Bilingual skills preferred.

 

¨       Level of knowledge generally obtained through completion of an associate’s degree or equivalent in an accredited medical assistant program.

 

¨       Graduate of accredited medical assistant program required with one to two years of medical experience preferred.  Experience in Pediatrics or Family Medicine preferred.

 

 

 

¨       Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) credential through American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). 

 

 

¨       Works in clinic and laboratory setting.

¨       Exposed to various body fluids.

¨       Stands and walks 80% of the workday.

¨       Work requires frequent typing/computer keying and operation of laboratory equipment and handling patient treatment instruments/equipment.