Embark on a Rewarding Career: Advanced Medical Support Assistant with the VA
Are you looking for a career that combines administrative excellence with a profound sense of purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a dedicated professional to serve as an Advanced Medical Support Assistant (AMSA) at the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System. This position is not just a desk job; it is a vital link in the chain of care that supports those who have bravely served our nation.
Job Responsibilities
As an AMSA, your role is multifaceted. You will work within the Clinical Contact Center and Nursing Operations to facilitate access to healthcare. Your day-to-day duties will include:
- Care Coordination: Scheduling, cancelling, and rescheduling patient appointments using specialized medical systems.
- Patient Communication: Managing incoming telephone calls, secure messages, and chat requests while providing exceptional customer service.
- Administrative Support: Reviewing clinical flow processes, relaying provider orders, and assisting with patient documentation.
- Collaboration: Participating in team huddles to ensure clinic schedules are optimized and patient needs are addressed efficiently.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-06 position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: Possession of a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-05 level or equivalent, demonstrating advanced knowledge of healthcare administrative processes.
- Language: Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Skills Comparison
| Skill Category | Expected Competency |
|---|---|
| Technical | Expert proficiency in patient scheduling systems |
| Communication | Advanced ability to handle distressed or challenging callers |
| Organization | Ability to set priorities and manage deadlines independently |
| Analytical | Ability to interpret clinic data and provider availability |
Salary Overview
The salary range for this position is $45,409 to $59,031 per year. This is a competitive federal salary, commensurate with the responsibilities and technical expertise required for the GS-06 level.
Benefits
Working for the VA provides a robust benefits package that sets the standard for public service, including:
- Health: Flexible health insurance options that cover employees and their families.
- Retirement: Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- Time Off: Ample annual and sick leave accrual, plus all federal holidays.
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: Federal hiring managers cannot infer experience. Clearly state your duties and the duration of your past employment.
- Check Your Docs: Ensure all required forms, such as SF-50s (if applicable) and transcripts, are attached correctly.
- Prepare for Assessment: You may be asked to complete a competency-based assessmentโgive yourself plenty of quiet time to finish this accurately.
If you possess strong administrative skills, a compassionate heart, and a desire to serve the Veterans of Arkansas, we encourage you to apply. This role offers stability, professional growth, and the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the healthcare experience of our nationโs heroes.
Why This Medical Support Assistant (Advanced) Job Matters
Join the mission of service and become a vital part of the patient care team at the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System.
Medical Support Assistant (Advanced) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking an Advanced Medical Support Assistant (AMSA) to join the Nursing Operations and Clinical Contact Center in North Little Rock, Arkansas. This role is central to the delivery of compassionate, patient-centered care, serving as a primary point of contact for Veterans and their families. You will operate within an interdisciplinary team to coordinate care, manage appointments, and ensure seamless communication across various clinics and external healthcare providers.
Requirements for Medical Support Assistant (Advanced)
- U.S. Citizenship status.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- High school diploma or GED equivalent.
- Successful completion of a background and security investigation.
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Passing a pre-employment physical evaluation.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Completion of a mandatory 1 or 2-year trial period.
Preferred Qualifications for Medical Support Assistant (Advanced)
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-05 level or equivalent.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Excel, Power BI, PowerPoint, and Access.
- Demonstrated ability to manage patient flow in a clinical or hospital environment.
- Experience with interdisciplinary care delivery models.
- Strong technical knowledge of healthcare scheduling systems and terminology.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- โComprehensive federal health insurance options
- โGenerous paid time off, including sick and annual leave
- โFederal retirement pension plan
- โThrift Savings Plan (401k-style investment)
- โLife insurance and long-term care insurance
- โCareer development and training opportunities
๐ก How to Apply Medical Support Assistant (Advanced) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Medical Support Assistant (Advanced) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement thoroughly.
- Prepare your long-form resume documenting specific duties and hours worked.
- Submit your online application, questionnaire, and all required documents by the deadline.
- Complete the required online assessment if notified.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
๐ก General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; avoid generic summaries of your experience.
- Ensure you document the hours per week worked for every position listed.
- Clearly highlight your proficiency with healthcare software systems.
- Submit your application well before the 11:59 PM ET deadline to avoid technical issues.
- Check your application status frequently on the USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work schedule for this position?
The role involves rotating shifts, which may include weekends and holidays. Specific schedules will be addressed during the interview process.
Is this position eligible for telework?
No, this is not a telework or virtual position; it is performed on-site at the medical facility.
Is relocation assistance offered for this role?
*A: No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this position.*
Can I apply if I am not a current federal employee?
*A: Yes, the vacancy is open to those meeting the qualifications regardless of federal status unless otherwise specified.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System (CAVHS) is a cornerstone of medical care in the region. Operating across two primary campuses in Little Rock and North Little Rock, the CAVHS is committed to providing comprehensive, compassionate "whole health" care to Veterans and their families. Joining our team means becoming part of a community that values integrity, innovation, and service above all else.
External Resources
- โ USAJobs Application
- โ Qualification Standards
- โ Apply Online
- โ Application Status
- โ Accreditation Verification
- โ Foreign Education Recognition
- โ I-9 Acceptable Documents
- โ View Questionnaire
- โ USA Hire Resource Center
- โ USAJobs Help Center
- โ VA Benefits Information
- โ The Fair Chance Act
