Launch Your Career: Medical Support Assistant (Advanced) at the Iowa City VA
Are you looking for a career that combines administrative expertise with a noble mission? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is hiring a Medical Support Assistant (Advanced) to support the surgical care team in Iowa City, Iowa. This role is pivotal in ensuring that those who have served our country receive the high-quality care they earned. If you are organized, compassionate, and ready to serve, this could be your next professional chapter.
Job Responsibilities
As an Advanced MSA, your day-to-day work will directly impact patient outcomes. Key duties include:
- Care Coordination: Managing clinic utilization and patient scheduling.
- Team Collaboration: Participating in team huddles to plan care.
- Patient Communication: Acting as a liaison between patients and medical staff.
- Data Management: Tracking consults, tests, and follow-ups to ensure continuity of care.
Requirements
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Education | High school diploma or GED equivalent |
| Experience | 1 year of specialized experience at the GS-5 level |
| Assessment | Completion of USA Hire required |
Salary Overview
This position is classified at the GS-6 level, with an annual salary range of $49,711 to $64,623 per year.
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides robust security, including health insurance, retirement planning through the Thrift Savings Plan, and significant leave accrual.
Application Tips
To succeed, focus on clarity. Your resume must explicitly state your experience, as hiring managers will not infer skills from titles alone. Always verify that your documentation, such as transcripts or veteran preference forms, is attached before submission.
Serving the Veteran community is a unique and rewarding path. By joining the Iowa City VA, you are choosing a career where your administrative skills translate into real-world care for those who sacrificed for us. Apply today to start your journey.
Why This Medical Support Assistant (Advanced) Job Matters
Join a mission-driven team at the Iowa City VA Healthcare System and provide vital administrative support to the heroes who served our nation.
Medical Support Assistant (Advanced) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Medical Support Assistant (Advanced) to join the Surgical Care Service Line. In this role, you will be an essential member of a Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT), collaborating with clinicians to ensure seamless, compassionate healthcare delivery for our Veterans. You will handle complex administrative functions, patient scheduling, and interdisciplinary communication to maintain high standards of patient flow and support.
Requirements for Medical Support Assistant (Advanced)
- Must be a United States citizen.
- Must possess a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent certification.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-5 level.
- Ability to complete an online competency-based assessment.
- Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Successful completion of a background and security investigation.
- Commitment to the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Medical Support Assistant (Advanced)
- Advanced knowledge of medical terminology.
- Demonstrated experience in inpatient or outpatient clinical support environments.
- Proven ability to manage electronic scheduling, provider orders, and care coordination models.
- Strong technical skills in navigating patient health portals and interdisciplinary care documentation.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- ✓Generous paid annual leave and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including FERS and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Opportunities for professional development within the VA system.
- ✓Access to a diverse, mission-oriented work environment.
💡 How to Apply Medical Support Assistant (Advanced) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Medical Support Assistant (Advanced) Job
- Register for a USAJOBS account or log into an existing one.
- Complete the online application and mandatory questionnaire.
- Download the required Clinical Resume document and upload it as specified.
- Submit all supporting documentation, including transcripts or SF-50s if applicable.
- Complete the required USA Hire assessment upon receiving the link via email.
- Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Read the entire announcement carefully before starting your application.
- Ensure your resume clearly reflects the required experience; the VA does not make assumptions.
- Set aside at least 3 hours to complete the USA Hire assessments to ensure you have adequate time.
- Use the provided link to download the standard Clinical Resume document to avoid formatting errors.
- Submit your package well before the closing date to account for potential technical delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a PACT model?
The Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT) is a patient-driven, team-based approach to care that includes the patient, their family, and a team of healthcare professionals like doctors, nurses, and administrative support.
Is telework available for this position?
No, this position is not eligible for telework and requires on-site presence at the Iowa City VA Healthcare System.
Do I need to submit a specific resume format?
Yes, you must download and use the provided Clinical Resume template for the primary two-page limit requirement, though you may upload a full CV in the 'Other' category.
Is this a remote position?
*A: No, this is an on-site position in Iowa City.*
Can I update my application after I submit it?
*A: Yes, you can edit your application until the announcement closes.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served. The Iowa City VA Health Care System is a premier institution serving over 50,000 Veterans. With ties to the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine and a robust research program, it offers a dynamic environment for dedicated professionals.