Launch Your Administrative Career with the VA Black Hills Health Care System
Are you looking for a career that combines administrative expertise with a deep commitment to service? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is looking for talented individuals to join our team as a Medical Support Assistant (Advanced) at the VA Black Hills Health Care System. This role is a unique opportunity to provide essential support to the men and women who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
The Medical Support Assistant (Advanced) serves as the backbone of our community care coordination. Key duties include:
- Coordinating appointments between Veterans and community vendors.
- Managing electronic health records and patient intake systems.
- Communicating clinical instructions clearly to Veterans and their families.
- Participating in interdisciplinary team huddles to plan and prioritize care.
- Triaging urgent clinical requests and resolving scheduling conflicts.
Core Competencies Comparison
| Feature | Entry-Level MSA | Advanced MSA |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Basic Clerical | Specialized Clinical Support |
| System Access | Standard | Advanced/Complex Systems |
| Clinical Collaboration | Limited | High (Interdisciplinary) |
| Decision Making | Routine | Independent/Expertise-Driven |
Requirements
To qualify, you must meet basic requirements including U.S. citizenship and proficiency in English. You must also have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-5 grade level, proving your ability to handle medical terminology, computerized patient systems, and sensitive data (PII).
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $47,903 to $62,274 per year. As a federal employee, you are also eligible for scheduled salary increases based on tenure and performance.
Benefits
Working for the VA comes with an unmatched benefits package, including:
- Paid Leave: Up to 50 days of combined annual and sick leave, plus federal holidays.
- Retirement: A robust federal pension and 401(k) style plan (TSP) with agency matching.
- Insurance: Comprehensive health, dental, and life insurance programs.
- Work-Life Balance: Programs such as paid parental leave and potential childcare subsidies.
Application Tips
- Be Specific: When writing your KSA responses, describe exactly how you gained your skills. Do not assume the reviewer knows your background.
- Follow Formatting: Use the standard VA resume document provided to ensure compliance.
- Check Documents: Ensure your transcripts or certificates are attached if you are using education to qualify.
Joining the VA Black Hills Health Care System means becoming part of a community that values both the employee and the Veteran. If you are ready to apply your organizational skills to help those who served, we encourage you to start your application today.
Why This Medical Support Assistant (Advanced)-Care In The Community Job Matters
Elevate your administrative career while making a tangible difference in the lives of our nation's Veterans at the VA Black Hills Health Care System.
Medical Support Assistant (Advanced)-Care In The Community Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Medical Support Assistant (Advanced) to facilitate high-quality care through our Community Care referral program. In this role, you will act as a vital link between Veterans and the clinical services they require, navigating the complexities of medical scheduling and interdisciplinary communication. Based in the stunning landscape of South Dakota, you will join a mission-driven team committed to the Whole Health approach, ensuring our Veterans receive the efficient, compassionate support they have earned.
Requirements for Medical Support Assistant (Advanced)-Care In The Community
- U.S. Citizenship
- High school diploma, GED, or equivalent certificate
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Completion of a background and security investigation
- Must be able to physically report to duty in Fort Meade or Hot Springs, SD
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Medical Support Assistant (Advanced)-Care In The Community
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-5 grade level
- Advanced knowledge of medical terminology and healthcare coding
- Proven experience with electronic health record systems and scheduling software
- Expertise in communicating effectively with clinical staff and patients
- Demonstrated ability to coordinate care in an interdisciplinary or community-based model
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓13-26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave per year
- ✓11 paid federal holidays
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting
- ✓Federal 401(k) (TSP) with agency matching contributions
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Childcare subsidies for eligible employees
💡 How to Apply Medical Support Assistant (Advanced)-Care In The Community Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Medical Support Assistant (Advanced)-Care In The Community Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account profile.
- Prepare your resume using the required Clinical Resume Document format.
- Draft a document addressing the specific Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) listed.
- Gather supporting documents such as transcripts, DD-214, or SF-50 if applicable.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the USA Staffing portal.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details how your experience matches the required KSAs—do not leave room for assumption.
- Use the provided Clinical Resume template to ensure your application meets the specific criteria for this role.
- Double-check your supporting documentation, specifically transcripts and identity verification, to avoid disqualification.
- Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard periodically after submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work remotely for this position?
No, this is an onsite position requiring the incumbent to physically report to either the Fort Meade or Hot Springs, South Dakota facilities.
Is prior medical experience mandatory?
Yes, this Advanced position requires one year of experience equivalent to the GS-5 level, demonstrating knowledge of medical support roles or equivalent clinical administrative work.
What happens after I apply?
Applications are reviewed regularly throughout the open period. Referred candidates may be contacted for interviews, and all applicants will receive status updates via email.
Do I need a degree?
No, a high school diploma or GED is the minimum educational requirement, provided you have the necessary specialized work experience.
Is there relocation assistance?
No, relocation assistance (PCS) is not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Can I apply after the closing date?
No, all applications must be submitted by the closing date specified in the announcement.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. At the VA Black Hills Health Care System (VA BHHCS), we operate facilities across South Dakota, including campuses in Fort Meade and Hot Springs. Our mission is to fulfill the promise to care for those who have served in our nation's military. Our team enjoys a high quality of life in Western South Dakota, a region known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, and low cost of living.