Ensure an effective and efficient reception service is provided to patients and any other visitors to the practice. Deal with all general enquiries, explain procedures and make new and follow-up appointments. Using your own judgment and communication skills, ensure that patients with no prior appointment but who need urgent consultation are seen in a logical and non-disruptive manner. Explain practice arrangements and formal requirements to new patients and those seeking temporary cover and ensure procedures are completed.
Receive and make telephone calls as required. Transfer calls and take messages, ensuring accuracy of detail and prompt appropriate delivery. Monitor online requests and assign online consultations to the appropriate person, in line with practice protocol. Enter requests for home visits into the appointment book, ensuring careful recording of all relevant details and where necessary refer to the doctor on duty.
Action repeat prescription requests and ensure that they are ready for collection by the patient within 72 hours. Advise patients of relevant charges for private (non-General Medical Services) services, accept payment and issue receipts for same. Enter patient information on to the computer as required and in a timely manner, to ensure that all information is available when needed. Ensure that all office and public areas are kept tidy for use.