Clinical Administrative Specialist in Florida Career Overview

As a Clinical Administrative Specialist, you play a key role in the healthcare system, ensuring that clinical operations run smoothly and efficiently. This position serves as a vital link between medical professionals, patients, and administrative functions.

  • Job Role: You will primarily be responsible for managing and coordinating various administrative tasks within a clinical setting. This includes handling patient records, scheduling appointments, and assisting in the management of daily office operations.

  • Importance: Your work directly impacts patient care by facilitating seamless communication among healthcare providers and ensuring that necessary resources are available. By managing administrative processes, you help healthcare teams focus on what they do best—providing quality patient care.

  • Work Environment: You will typically find yourself in hospitals, clinics, or private practices, working alongside physicians, nurses, and other healthcare staff. This collaborative environment requires you to be responsive to the needs of both patients and healthcare providers.

  • Responsibilities: Your duties may include processing insurance claims, ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations, and maintaining accurate medical records. You will also be involved in optimizing office procedures to improve overall efficiency and patient satisfaction.

Your role as a Clinical Administrative Specialist is essential in maintaining an organized clinical environment that supports the delivery of effective healthcare services.

Clinical Administrative Specialist Salary in Florida

Annual Median: $37,560
Hourly Median: $18.06

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Clinical Administrative Specialist in Florida

To become a Clinical Administrative Specialist, you will need specific educational qualifications and training. Below are the recommended degree programs that can prepare you for this career:

  • Health and Medical Administrative Services
    This degree focuses on the management and operational aspects of healthcare facilities. Courses typically include healthcare laws, ethical issues, medical terminology, and administrative workflow.

  • Healthcare Information Privacy Assurance and Security
    This program emphasizes the safeguarding of patient information and compliance with regulations such as HIPAA. It covers topics like data management, security protocols, and risk assessment in healthcare settings.

  • Medical Administrative Executive Assistant and Medical Secretary
    This curriculum combines administrative duties with medical office skills. Key subjects often include office management, scheduling, billing, and electronic health records (EHR) management.

  • Medical Office Administration
    This degree prepares you for various administrative tasks in a medical office environment. Coursework may include office procedures, medical coding, appointment scheduling, and managing patient records.

  • Health Care Administration and Management
    This program provides broader knowledge of healthcare systems and management practices. You will study health policy, finance, marketing, and strategic planning within healthcare organizations.

In addition to completing these degree programs, internships or certifications in relevant areas may enhance your qualifications and practical experience in the field.

Best Schools to become a Clinical Administrative Specialist in Florida 2024

#1Salt Lake County

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT

In-State Tuition:$7,404
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,404
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:49%
Total Enrollment:156,935
#2Pinellas County

Ultimate Medical Academy

Clearwater, FL

In-State Tuition:$N/A
Out-of-State Tuition:$N/A
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:50%
Total Enrollment:6,368
#3Merrimack County

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

In-State Tuition:$15,000
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,000
Admission Rate:96%
Graduation Rate:41%
Total Enrollment:164,091
#4Tippecanoe County

Purdue University Global

West Lafayette, IN

In-State Tuition:$10,080
Out-of-State Tuition:$13,356
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:20%
Total Enrollment:45,125
#5Hennepin County

Capella University

Minneapolis, MN

In-State Tuition:$14,328
Out-of-State Tuition:$14,328
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:N/A
Total Enrollment:39,727
#6San Diego County

Ashford University

San Diego, CA

In-State Tuition:$12,240
Out-of-State Tuition:$12,240
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:10%
Total Enrollment:34,190
Clinical Administrative Specialist Job Description:
  • Perform secretarial duties using specific knowledge of medical terminology and hospital, clinic, or laboratory procedures.
  • Duties may include scheduling appointments, billing patients, and compiling and recording medical charts, reports, and correspondence.

Clinical Administrative Specialist Required Skills and Competencies in Florida

  • Attention to Detail: You must possess a keen eye for detail, as accuracy is vital in managing patient records, billing, and administrative documentation.

  • Communication Skills: Effective verbal and written communication is essential for interacting with healthcare professionals, patients, and insurance representatives. You should be able to convey complex information clearly and concisely.

  • Organizational Skills: The ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously is critical in a fast-paced healthcare environment. You should be adept at organizing files, appointments, and patient information.

  • Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, medical coding software, and other healthcare technologies is necessary to efficiently handle administrative duties.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: You must be able to identify issues and implement solutions quickly, particularly in patient scheduling conflicts, billing inaccuracies, or administrative discrepancies.

  • Confidentiality and Integrity: Understanding the importance of patient confidentiality and adhering to HIPAA regulations is fundamental to your role. You should demonstrate a strong ethical commitment to protecting sensitive information.

  • Interpersonal Skills: Building rapport with patients and colleagues is important. You should be approachable, empathetic, and able to work collaboratively within a healthcare team.

  • Knowledge of Medical Terminology: Familiarity with medical terminology will enhance your ability to perform tasks such as coding, processing insurance claims, and understanding physician notes.

  • Time Management: You must effectively manage your time to meet deadlines and ensure efficient clinic operations, particularly during busy periods.

  • Adaptability: Being flexible and open to change is crucial, as the healthcare environment can be dynamic, requiring you to adjust to new policies, technologies, and procedures.

Job Duties for Clinical Administrative Specialists

  • Answer telephones and direct calls to appropriate staff.

  • Complete insurance or other claim forms.

  • Schedule and confirm patient diagnostic appointments, surgeries, or medical consultations.

Technologies and Skills Used by Clinical Administrative Specialists

Accounting software

  • Billing software
  • Intuit QuickBooks

Medical software

  • Epic Systems
  • MEDITECH software

Word processing software

  • Google Docs
  • Microsoft Word

Basic Skills

  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • Talking to others

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Clinical Administrative Specialist in Florida

The job market for Clinical Administrative Specialists in Florida has shown substantial growth, reflecting the ongoing evolution of the healthcare landscape. As healthcare providers increasingly prioritize administrative efficiency and patient management, the demand for professionals in this role continues to rise.

  • Current Demand:

    • The growth in Florida’s population and an aging demographic have led to an increased need for healthcare services. This, in turn, drives higher demand for Clinical Administrative Specialists who can effectively manage patient records, appointments, and various administrative tasks across healthcare facilities.
    • The transition to electronic health records (EHR) and advancements in healthcare technology have also contributed to the demand for specialists who are adept at navigating these systems.

  • Growth Potential:

    • The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment for health services managers, which includes Clinical Administrative Specialists, will grow much faster than the average for all occupations in the coming years.
    • Continued expansion of outpatient care facilities, urgent care clinics, and telehealth services opens new roles and career paths within the field, providing ample opportunities for advancement and specialization.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • Major metropolitan areas such as Miami, Orlando, and Tampa have a concentration of healthcare facilities, making them prime locations for job opportunities in this sector.
    • Regional healthcare hubs, particularly in South Florida, are experiencing rapid growth in healthcare services, fueled by increased retiree populations and the establishment of numerous healthcare companies.
    • Additionally, areas with a significant presence of health insurance companies and managed care organizations, such as Jacksonville and Fort Lauderdale, offer a variety of administrative roles specific to clinical settings.

Being aware of these dynamics will help you navigate potential job opportunities effectively and position yourself favorably in Florida's evolving job market for Clinical Administrative Specialists.

Top Related Careers to Clinical Administrative Specialist 2024

Health Information Coordinator
Medical Office Administrator
Health Records Clerk
Medical Office Coordinator

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Clinical Administrative Specialist in Florida

  • Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
    Gain insights into job outlook, salary expectations, and industry trends specific to medical and health services managers.
    Visit BLS

  • American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)
    Access resources for professional development, certifications, and industry standards in health information management.
    Visit AHIMA

  • American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)
    Explore articles, certification options, and updates relevant to medical assisting and administrative roles in healthcare.
    Visit AAMA

  • Healthcare Administrative Management Association (HAMA)
    Find educational resources, networking opportunities, and industry news focused on healthcare administration.
    Visit HAMA

  • National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
    Includes certification guides, career resources, and study materials for various healthcare administrative roles.
    Visit NHA

  • Florida Health Care Association (FHCA)
    Stay informed about laws, regulations, and professional development opportunities specific to Florida's healthcare environment.
    Visit FHCA

  • LinkedIn Learning
    Access a wide range of online courses tailored to healthcare management, office administration, and related skills.
    Visit LinkedIn Learning

  • Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
    Discover resources related to human resource management within healthcare settings, including best practices and compliance guidelines.
    Visit SHRM

  • Florida Department of Health
    Review state-specific regulations, licensing requirements, and health statistics influential to administrative roles in Florida.
    Visit Florida Department of Health

  • Healthcare Management News
    Follow articles, reports, and analysis related to healthcare management trends and innovations.
    Visit Healthcare Management News

These resources will enhance your understanding of the field and aid in your professional development as a Clinical Administrative Specialist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Clinical Administrative Specialist in Florida

  • What is a Clinical Administrative Specialist?
    A Clinical Administrative Specialist is responsible for managing administrative tasks in healthcare settings. This can include patient scheduling, medical record management, billing and coding, and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations.

  • What qualifications do I need to become a Clinical Administrative Specialist?
    Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent, while some employers prefer an associate's or bachelor's degree in healthcare administration, business, or a related field. Certification in medical coding or billing can also be beneficial.

  • What skills are essential for a Clinical Administrative Specialist?
    Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, effective communication, and proficiency in computer systems and software used in healthcare management are essential skills for this role. Additionally, understanding medical terminology is important.

  • Where do Clinical Administrative Specialists typically work?
    You can find Clinical Administrative Specialists in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, physician offices, nursing facilities, and health insurance companies.

  • What is the salary range for Clinical Administrative Specialists in Florida?
    Salaries typically range from $35,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience, credentials, and the specific healthcare facility. More experienced individuals may earn higher wages, often exceeding $70,000.

  • Are there opportunities for advancement in this career?
    Yes, there are opportunities for advancement. With additional education and experience, you can move into higher-level positions such as office manager, healthcare administrator, or compliance officer.

  • What continuing education options are available?
    Continuing education can include workshops, online courses, or certification programs in healthcare administration, coding, or billing. Many professional organizations offer resources for advanced training.

  • How does the job outlook look for Clinical Administrative Specialists?
    The job outlook for Clinical Administrative Specialists is generally positive. As the healthcare industry continues to grow, there will be an ongoing demand for qualified administrative personnel.

  • What are the usual work hours?
    Work hours typically vary depending on the facility. Most Clinical Administrative Specialists work full-time, but part-time positions and flexible schedules may also be available.

  • Do I need to be familiar with healthcare regulations?
    Yes, familiarity with healthcare regulations, such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), is important for maintaining patient confidentiality and ensuring compliance in healthcare settings.