Typical duties include answering phones and making appointments, updating patients' files on the computer, taking messages for physicians, and arranging for patients' hospitalization. They also talk directly with the patients, so good interpersonal skills, compassion and tact are necessary when talking with anyone experiencing health problems. The outlook for trained medical secretaries is very good. Growth in the health services industry is projected to outpace the number of qualified medical secretaries during the next decade. Still, office automation is limiting employment for secretaries in any field.
Technology can eliminate some jobs.
Experience and proficiency with the new technology are key to getting a good position. Many secretaries get their training through practical experience on the job. Others attend specialized medical secretarial training programs at vocational-technical institutes, business schools and community colleges. Many temporary employment agencies can help with training in computer and keyboarding skills. Salaries can vary widely based on differences in skills, experience, levels of responsibility and geographic location.