They also collect and prepare laboratory specimens. Assistants may perform basic lab tests. They also instruct patients about medication and special diets. Additional duties include drawing blood, taking X rays, and removing sutures. After examinations, assistants clean the room, rearrange equipment, and sterilize used instruments.
Assistants also have clerical duties.
They answer telephones, greet patients, and update medical records. Assistants fill out insurance forms and schedule appointments. They also arrange for hospital admission and laboratory services. Some assistants handle billing and bookkeeping. The size of the office determines how much time assistants spend on clerical duties.