Surgical Scheduler

Basic Function

Under the supervision of the Practice Office Manager/Supervisor, the Surgical Scheduler schedules all surgical procedures and assures that all of the appropriate clinical and insurance information is collected and processed.

Scheduler provides accurate information so that all departments may view daily and maintains open communication with hospital departments and physician offices regarding schedule changes.

Supervisory Accountability

Involves no responsibility or authority for the direction of others.

Nature And Scope

External contacts include a variety of third-party payers, medical organizations, patients and other healthcare personnel

Principal Accountabilities

• Schedules surgeries procedures using appropriate EMR systems and/or tracking systems
• Answers the phone in a kind, compassionate, and skilled manner
• Completes post-visit information and enters it into the system and/or other systems to prepare surgical package
• Posts surgical charges on a daily basis per established guidelines
• Completes daily surgical schedule and distributes as appropriate
• Maintains and distributes surgical log as appropriate
• Ensures appropriate coordination with other hospital departments when appropriate
• Obtains pre-certification/authorization for surgical procedures
• Retrieves lab reports, dictations, x-rays and correspondence.
• Provides patient education and instruction as directed by the Physician.
• Makes decisions and judgments on phone calls, answering questions and advising patients with Physician guidelines.
• Instructs patient in preparation for procedures and in-home care, using instruction sheets when applicable.
• Answers telephone, takes messages, and gives routine information in accordance with established
• procedures.
• Maintains knowledge of and complies with established policies and procedures.
• Maintains work area in a neat and orderly manner..
• Supports providers
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Core Competencies

• Knowledge of examination, diagnostic and treatment room procedures.
• Knowledge of Medical Terminology.
• Knowledgeable in the use of CPT and ICD codes.
• Knowledge of common safety hazards and precautions to maintain a safe work environment.
• Demonstrated skill in oral and written communications as well as ability to speak clearly.
• Skill in assisting in a variety of treatments and medications as directed.
• Skill in taking vital signs.
• Skill in maintaining records and recording test results.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with patients and medical staff
• Ability to be detailed oriented, follow established priorities or procedures, and deliver quality customer service.
• Exceptional ability to deescalate challenging situations with both patients and colleagues
• Ability to maintain quality control standards.
• Ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
• Ability to read, understand and respond to oral and written instructions.

Minimum Requirements

Associate degree in Medical Technology, Nursing or related field or two (2) years related experience in

a physician’s office, clinic and/or hospital or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Certification or Registration as a Medical Technology also required.

COVID – 19 Vaccination Information

All newly hired faculty, staff and student employees are required to vaccinate and to have proof of vaccination(s) upon their first day of employment. Please familiarize yourself with the University’s COVID-19 vaccination requirements and verification policy.

Exemption And Waiver Information

Medical and religious exemptions from vaccinations will be granted in accordance with federal and local law. Employees must request an exemption by completing the COVID-19 vaccination exemption request form.

More information on Howard University’s COVID-19 response and protocol can be found here.