Doctors Receptionist

[Lola44]

Hi all, I’m starting a new job as a doctors receptionist and was wondering if other doctors receptionists can advise me of their average day to day duties? I know the basic but was just wanting to gain as much information on the role as I can.. I’ve been out of work for quite some time so am a little nervous about starting work again, I just want to be prepared!! Many thanks☺️

Don't know a lot sorry, but I would imagine you must be very discreet and never talk about the patients to anyone outside the workplace. That is a MUST.

Answering phone calls, filing, checking people in, booking blood tests and taking lots of angry calls and messages about the doctors STILL not seeing people will no doubt be part of the job...

I am bumping this for you, so someone who knows more than me can advise. But I would imagine that each GP Practice is different, and will require different things from their reception staff.

Good luck.

Yep, as pp said, answering the phone, booking appointments with the doctors and nurses, opening the post, requesting sick notes, keeping on top of emails. Ours is only a small surgery and on Monday mornings the phone rings constantly, but on other days we have more time to phone or text patients to invite them in for blood tests, blood pressure checks, medication reviews or whatever. Then there are the routine daily tasks like locking and unlocking the filing cabinets, shredding paperwork, putting out or bringing in signs etc.
Confidentiality and discretion are vital, along with the ability to.remain calm and patient.
Hope this helps. Good luck!

Dealing with a lot of people who think you have ideas above your station when you're following the instructions of your employer.

Yeah, I try to be friendly but firm and I tell patients I'm not paid enough to take abuse or swearing.
You'll probably start off doing a lot of mandatory online training courses like health and safety, data protection etc, and shadowing a receptionist.
You might be asked to act as chaperone if a nurse isn't available. I haven't yet but it's a possibility.