Medical secretaries manage the daily ebb and flow of patients through a doctor’s office. Whether they greet you upon arrival or work behind the scenes, ensuring shot records are in order, scanning insurance cards and collecting copayments, these professionals manage a fast-paced and often hectic environment. Medical secretaries may also assist with medical reports, take medical histories, arrange hospitalization and order surgical or medical supplies, in addition to answering phones and directing patients.

"On an average Monday, we answer up to 500-plus phone calls," says Ruth Scott of her former role as support and reception team leader at Medical Associates of Northern New Mexico. "At any given time, we have six to eight receptionists on the phone, checking people in and out. We can see up to 134 patients-plus a day." Medical secretaries may work at outpatient care centers, in physicians’ offices and hospitals or in the offices of other health practitioners, such as chiropractors and optometrists.

The rapid growth of the health care industry and an expected increase in demand for medical services by aging baby boomers will bolster job prospects for medical secretaries in the coming years. Job prospects are particularly good for those looking to work in physicians’ offices and surgical hospitals.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6.7% employment growth for medical secretaries between 2022 and 2032. In that period, an estimated 46,600 jobs should open up.

People with high school degrees and a solid working knowledge of basic office and computer skills qualify for many secretarial positions. But the requirements are more stringent for medical administrators. People interested in these positions should enhance their knowledge of medical terminology at community colleges and vocational schools.