Launch Your Healthcare Career as a Medical Support Assistant

Are you looking for a career that combines administrative expertise with a passion for helping others? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Medical Support Assistant (MSA) to join the dedicated team at the Coralville VA Clinic. This is an excellent opportunity to enter the federal workforce and contribute to a mission-driven organization that prioritizes the health and well-being of our nation’s veterans.

Job Responsibilities

As an MSA, you are the backbone of the clinical experience. Your daily duties will include:

Patient Scheduling: Coordinating, confirming, and rescheduling patient appointments and consultations.
Records Management: Maintaining electronic health records and updating patient demographics and insurance details.
Clinic Coordination: Preparing for clinic visits, managing wait lists, and entering encounter forms to ensure workload credit.
Communication: Greeting patients, answering telephones, and relaying vital messages to clinical staff to facilitate seamless care.

Comparison of Grade Levels

Feature	GS-03 (Entry)	GS-04 (Developmental)	GS-05 (Full Performance)
Guidance	Frequent supervision	Minor/less frequent	Independent
Scope	Basic clerical support	Assisting specialty clinics	Full range of duties
Knowledge	Basic	Developing	Advanced

Requirements

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet specific federal requirements:

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
High school diploma or equivalent is the baseline education requirement.
Must maintain English language proficiency.
Completion of a background check is required.
Mandatory participation in the influenza vaccination program.

Salary Overview

The salary range for this position is $36,799 to $57,974 per year, depending on qualifications and grade level. Federal employment offers consistent pay scales and the potential for career advancement within the VA system.

Benefits

Working for the VA provides a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your work-life balance and long-term security, including:

Health, vision, and dental insurance options.
Retirement savings plans with agency contributions.
Robust paid leave policies.
Access to specialized training and career mobility programs.

Application Tips

Customize Your Resume: Clearly outline your experience in customer service, data entry, and administrative support.
Documentation is Key: Ensure you upload your transcripts and any relevant certifications or veteran preference documents (like your DD-214).
Prepare for Assessments: Be ready for the online USA Hire assessment by reviewing resources available on their portal.

The Medical Support Assistant role at the Coralville VA Clinic is more than just an office job—it is an opportunity to directly impact the quality of care provided to our veterans. If you are organized, compassionate, and ready to serve, we encourage you to review the full requirements and submit your application today.

Why This Medical Support Assistant Job Matters

Launch your career in patient-centered care with the VA. Join the Coralville team as a Medical Support Assistant and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our nation.

Medical Support Assistant Job Overview

The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Medical Support Assistant (MSA) to join the Mental Health Service team at the Coralville VA Clinic. This role is essential for maintaining efficient clinical operations, managing patient intake, and coordinating complex scheduling needs. You will be the first point of contact for veterans, playing a pivotal role in ensuring they receive timely and compassionate care within a top-tier medical environment.

Requirements for Medical Support Assistant

Must be a United States citizen.
Possess a high school diploma or GED.
Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Must be able to pass a background/security investigation.
If male and born after 12/31/1959, you must be registered with the Selective Service.
Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program is a mandatory condition of employment.

Preferred Qualifications for Medical Support Assistant

Experience in a clinical or medical support role.
Proficiency with office automation software and electronic health record systems.
Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive patient information with integrity.
Strong interpersonal skills for interacting with diverse patient populations.
Knowledge of medical terminology to effectively coordinate with clinical staff.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with step increases.
✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Access to professional development and training resources.
✓Opportunities for career growth within the VA health system.

💡 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 the full vacancy announcement details carefully.
Prepare your resume and gather required documentation, including transcripts or SF-50s if applicable.
Complete the online application questionnaire.
Submit your application package before the closing date of 10/29/2026.
Monitor your email for a notification regarding mandatory USA Hire assessments.
Complete the assessments within the allotted time if requested.

💡 General Tips

Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Ensure your resume explicitly details how your experience aligns with the listed competencies.
Double-check that all required documents (DD-214, transcripts, etc.) are attached before submission.
Use the 'Track this application' feature in USAJOBS to stay updated on your status.
Utilize the USA Hire practice resources provided in the announcement to prepare for assessments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of a Medical Support Assistant?

An MSA facilitates the flow of patient care by managing appointments, verifying insurance, handling health records, and serving as a bridge between patients and the clinical care team.

Can I work remotely for this position?

No, this is an onsite position located at the Coralville VA Clinic and is not eligible for telework.

Is a medical degree required?

No, the minimum requirement is a high school diploma or GED; however, candidates must demonstrate or develop knowledge of medical terminology and administrative processes.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Iowa City VA Health Care System is a premier healthcare organization, recognized for its commitment to innovation, education, and compassionate patient care. As a 5-star CMS-rated facility, it serves as a center for excellence in medical practice and research. By joining the Coralville team, you become part of a network that includes affiliations with top-tier academic institutions, ensuring you work in a stimulating environment that promotes professional development.