Supporting Our Heroes: Careers as a Medical Support Assistant
Are you looking for a career that combines administrative excellence with a noble mission? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking compassionate, organized individuals to serve as Medical Support Assistants (MSA) at the Iowa City VA Health Care System. This role is essential in maintaining the flow of medical services for the men and women who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As an MSA, your daily duties are vital to clinical success. You will:
- Schedule, cancel, and reschedule patient appointments.
- Manage incoming patient messages and clinical inquiries.
- Update demographic and insurance information.
- Monitor clinic waiting lists and encounter forms.
- Facilitate transfers to and from other medical facilities.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Grade Level | Requirements | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| GS-3 | High School Diploma/GED | Entry-level, supervised training |
| GS-4 | 1 Year Experience or College | Developmental, minor guidance |
| GS-5 | 2 Years Experience or College | Full performance level, independent work |
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must be U.S. citizens and meet basic English proficiency standards. You must be able to pass a background check and agree to the mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination program. Educational documentation is required if you are using college credits to qualify for the GS-4 or GS-5 levels.
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $36,799 to $57,974 per year. As a federal employee, you gain access to an exceptional benefits package, including health coverage, retirement planning, and generous leave policies.
Application Tips
Start by ensuring your resume is detailed. Because federal hiring is highly objective, be specific about your duties and accomplishments. Always double-check that you have uploaded all necessary transcripts and SF-50 forms if you are a current or former federal employee.
Working for the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the Veterans who sacrificed for our freedom. If you have the skills to organize, communicate, and support a medical team, we encourage you to apply for this open continuous announcement today.
Why This Medical Support Assistant Job Matters
Launch your career in federal healthcare as a Medical Support Assistant with the Department of Veterans Affairs, serving those who have served our nation.
Medical Support Assistant Job Overview
The Iowa City VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Medical Support Assistant (MSA) to join our Outpatient Specialty departments. In this role, you will be the backbone of our clinical operations, managing patient information, scheduling, and administrative support to ensure high-quality care for our Veterans. This is an excellent entry-to-mid-level opportunity to gain experience in a premier, research-driven medical facility.
Requirements for Medical Support Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
- Must be able to pass a background/security investigation
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959
- Annual influenza vaccination or approved medical/religious exemption
Preferred Qualifications for Medical Support Assistant
- Previous experience in a healthcare administrative or clinical support role
- Proficiency with electronic health records (EHR) and scheduling software
- Strong knowledge of medical terminology
- Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive patient information with confidentiality
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and pay progression
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including FERS
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Life and long-term care insurance programs
💡 How to Apply Medical Support Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Medical Support Assistant Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review all application instructions and the required document list.
- Complete the online questionnaire.
- Upload the required documents, including your resume and transcripts.
- Submit your application package by the closing date.
- Complete the mandatory USA Hire assessment if notified via email.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly reflects how your experience aligns with the specific knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) listed.
- Do not omit any documentation; failure to provide transcripts or required forms can disqualify your application.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS dashboard.
- Ensure your contact information is current to receive referral and interview notifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What grade levels are available for this position?
The vacancy covers GS-3 through GS-5, depending on your education and professional experience.
Is telework an option for this job?
No, this is an on-site position at the Iowa City VA Health Care System and is not eligible for telework.
Do I need to be a veteran to apply?
No, while we encourage veterans to apply, this position is open to qualified U.S. citizens.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Iowa City VA Health Care System has been a cornerstone of care for Veterans since 1952. Serving over 50,000 Veterans across Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri, our facility is recognized for its partnership with the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine and its status as a leader in clinical research via the CADRE department. When you work here, you are part of a massive, supportive team dedicated to whole-health care.