Written for the medical clerical worker, this book not only gives an overview of the information needed to be successful, but also introduces readers to the opportunities to branch out into allied fields, including medical records and billing. Concise and well-written, this book focuses on front office administrative training, and is up-to-date with regulations and technology.This book covers all topics in the front-office medical clerical field, and includes updated insurance forms, procedures, and codes, as well diagnostic testing and the latest in communications and technology. It emphasizes safety and ethics, as well as prepares readers for the ever-changing health care office environment.For medical clerical workers and other health care professionals who supervise these employees.

There have been dramatic changes in health care since the first edition ofBeing a Medical Clerical Worker: An Introductory Core Textwas published in 1990. More than a decade later, the medical clerical worker faces more complex challenges, with the work environment changing rapidly. In this profession, textbooks must be updated on a regular basis to make sure that students receive current information about a dynamic profession.This latest edition has many new features, formats, and sections. Hopefully, the changes are informative and user-friendly. The chapters have a new look as well as much new material, including: Updated information on certification programs Explanation of several legal terms not discussed in previous editions, updated due to the increasing importance of medico-legal issues Continual emphasis on ethical behavior, especially the importance of confidentiality of patient information Real-Life Scenarios,a feature in most of the eighteen chapters, gives the students a chance to discuss realistic, on-the-job situations Updated information about newer modes of communication and their uses in the medical office, such as electronic transmissions Current information on handling medical records Updated pharmacology information Expanded section on diagnostic testing A revamped chapter renamedMedical Office Information Technologythat stresses critical confidentiality issues concerning the use of such technology A revised health insurance chapter emphasizing the latest technology, requirements, and forms required to correctly understand insurance billing Latest updated information about computerized billing, collection, and banking Updated review questions and learning activitiesBeing a Medical Clerical Workercontinues to be the core textbook in the Prentice Hall Medical Series. The goal of this edition is to familiarize the students with technological advances designed to- better serve the patient, reduce errors, and increase efficiency of communications.However, technology is wasted if the medical clerical worker does not commit him- or herself to ethical and moral excellence in dealing with patients, as well as a firm commitment to being a positive part of the health care team. Being a medical clerical worker brings continual challenges and rewards for the professional who truly wants to be proud of his or her professional accomplishments. Additionally, career advancement continues to be possible for those who excel in their positions. Jacquelyn R. Marshall