5 Essential Skills for Medical Office Managers

Managers in every industry shoulder a lot of responsibility. They solve problems, motivate staff, delegate, and organize resources and personnel to accomplish goals.  Exceptional organizational and leadership skills are what make it possible.

The healthcare industry is no different, but medical office managers (MOMs) also need technical and analytical proficiency to incorporate coding software and electronic health records into successful facility operations.

Medical and health services manager employment is expected to grow 17% by 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations. Read on to learn more about what it takes to be a successful medical office manager.

What is a Medical Office Manager?

Medical office managers coordinate medical and health services in a facility, department, or medical practice. A big part of their job is keeping up to date on changing healthcare technology, laws, and regulations. The responsibilities of a medical office manager include:

• Training, supervising, and scheduling staff
• Maintaining and organizing records
• Improving quality and efficiency
• Accounting, budgeting, and billing
• Ensuring the facility is compliant with applicable law and regulations

As you can see, a medical office manager is a busy person wearing lots of different hats. The competence and performance of the medical office manager have a huge effect on the success of the facility and the quality of care patients receive. There are certain skills and abilities a medical office manager needs to be successful.

Must-Have Skills for Medical Office Managers

There are a few essential skills medical office managers need.

Interpersonal and Communication Skills

These managers work with a variety of professionals such as physicians, surgeons, nurses, and technicians. They must be adept at communicating policies and regulations to staff to ensure compliance with relevant laws. Interpersonal skills are crucial when discussing patient information and staffing problems.

Detail Oriented

Getting the details right is critical in the healthcare industry. Medical office managers have to pay close attention to details when organizing schedules and billing information for large facilities. Diligent attention to detail is also necessary to ensure paperwork is precisely completed, reimbursement procedures are followed, and health records are properly maintained.

Leadership Skills

Medical office managers are running the ship, so they have to make sure everyone is doing their job and the procedures are followed. They hire, train, supervise, and lead staff and solve staffing and administrative problems. Great leadership skills are vital.

Analytical Skills

Healthcare regulations, medical codes, medical terminology, diagnoses, and procedures can be technical and complicated. Strong analytical skills help managers understand, follow, and explain all of these topics.

Technical Skills

Healthcare technology, data analytics, and electronic health records are major parts of a MOM’s day-to-day activity. Managers must be able to stay current with advances in the industry to incorporate and explain these technologies.

How Can You Become a Medical Office Manager?

Educational requirements for MOMs vary based on the type and size of the facility. Most offices prefer career training programs or degrees in health administration, health management, public health administration, or business. Enroll online today!