Podiatric Medical Assistant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the healthcare industry, the demand for podiatric medical assistants is on the rise.
As medical advancements continue to progress, the need for skilled professionals who can support, enhance, and maintain our podiatric healthcare system grows significantly.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a podiatric medical assistant?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to comprehend the requirements of this role,
- A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of podiatric medical assistance,
You’ve come to the right place.
Today, we present a customizable podiatric medical assistant job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right in.
Podiatric Medical Assistant Duties and Responsibilities
Podiatric Medical Assistants play a vital role in podiatric care, assisting podiatrists in examining and treating patients with foot, ankle, and lower leg conditions.
They take care of a variety of clinical and administrative tasks.
The duties and responsibilities of a Podiatric Medical Assistant include:
- Assisting the podiatrist during patient examinations and procedures
- Preparing and sterilizing medical instruments and equipment for podiatric procedures
- Taking patient’s medical history, including information about foot, ankle or lower leg issues
- Performing initial examinations, such as measuring a patient’s foot size or taking blood pressure
- Providing patient education on foot care, post-procedure care, and use of orthotic devices
- Applying dressings, bandages, and casts under the direction of the podiatrist
- Scheduling patient appointments and managing patient records
- Handling administrative tasks such as billing, insurance claims, and maintaining medical records
- Ordering supplies and ensuring the cleanliness of examination rooms
Podiatric Medical Assistant Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Podiatric Medical Assistant to join our healthcare team.
As a Podiatric Medical Assistant, your role will involve supporting Podiatrists in patient care, preparing treatment rooms, and performing administrative duties.
Our ideal candidate is detail-oriented, organized, has excellent communication skills, and a strong understanding of podiatry medical terminology and procedures.
The goal is to provide high-quality patient care and ensure a smooth day-to-day operation of our Podiatry department.
Responsibilities
- Assist podiatrists during consultations and procedures
- Prepare treatment rooms for patient examinations
- Maintain patient records, including medical history and treatment plans
- Schedule appointments and manage patient flow
- Perform basic foot care treatments under the supervision of a Podiatrist
- Handle administrative tasks such as billing and insurance verification
- Ensure clean, safe, and organized work environment
- Educate patients on post-treatment care and general foot health
Qualifications
- Proven work experience as a Podiatric Medical Assistant or similar role in healthcare
- Familiarity with podiatry terminology, procedures and health safety guidelines
- Knowledge of medical office management systems and procedures
- Good interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to maintain patient confidentiality
- Proficiency in MS Office and patient management software
- High School diploma; certification in medical administration is a plus
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Podiatric Medical Assistant
- Work Environment: Podiatry clinic or hospital setting. Requires interaction with patients.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Podiatrist or Clinic Manager.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $31,400 minimum to $51,770 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Podiatric Medical Assistant Do?
Podiatric Medical Assistants typically work in podiatry offices, hospitals, and clinics.
They primarily assist Podiatrists, who are medical professionals specializing in foot and ankle health.
They perform a wide range of clinical tasks, including taking patient histories, preparing patients for procedures, and assisting during examinations or surgeries.
They may also be responsible for removing sutures, changing dressings, or helping patients with physical therapy exercises.
In addition to clinical tasks, Podiatric Medical Assistants often handle administrative duties.
These can include scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, billing, and insurance coding.
Podiatric Medical Assistants also take foot and ankle X-rays, apply casts and splints, and provide patient education on postoperative care and general foot health.
Overall, the role of a Podiatric Medical Assistant is to provide comprehensive support to Podiatrists, ensuring that patient care is efficient, effective, and compassionate.
Podiatric Medical Assistant Qualifications and Skills
A Podiatric Medical Assistant should have a mix of technical skills, soft skills, and healthcare industry knowledge, including:
- Good understanding of podiatric medical terminology and procedures to effectively support and assist the podiatrist during procedures
- Ability to carry out administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records and billing using organizational skills
- Strong interpersonal skills to interact with patients, making them feel comfortable, and addressing their queries and concerns
- Excellent attention to detail to accurately document patient history and symptoms, as well as noting the podiatrist’s treatment plan
- Experience or familiarity with medical software and technology for efficient patient management
- Ability to perform basic clinical tasks such as taking a patient’s blood pressure, temperature, and pulse rate
- Problem-solving skills to effectively handle unexpected situations or emergencies that may arise during podiatry procedures
- Physical stamina to stand for extended periods and assist the podiatrist in procedures
Podiatric Medical Assistant Experience Requirements
To become a Podiatric Medical Assistant, individuals typically require some level of practical experience in the field.
This is often gained through clinical rotations or internships as part of a medical assisting program.
These programs usually provide extensive hands-on experience in a healthcare setting, preparing students to assist with podiatry procedures, patient care and administrative tasks.
For entry-level positions, employers often require at least 1 year of experience in a clinical or healthcare setting, preferably within podiatry.
This ensures the individual has a basic understanding of medical procedures, patient care and administrative duties.
Candidates with more than 3 years of experience as a medical assistant, particularly within a podiatric setting, are usually considered for higher-level positions.
They might have developed more advanced skills such as assisting with minor surgeries, casting, and wound care, and may have also taken on administrative responsibilities like managing patient records and scheduling appointments.
Those with over 5 years of experience may have also gained some form of leadership or supervisory experience, making them suitable for roles such as Lead Podiatric Medical Assistant or Podiatric Medical Office Manager.
They likely have mastered the essential duties of the role, and also possess the skills necessary to train and supervise less experienced staff.
Podiatric Medical Assistant Education and Training Requirements
A Podiatric Medical Assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent as a base requirement.
Many podiatric medical assistants learn their skills on the job, however, some complete post-secondary education programs.
These programs are commonly offered by vocational schools or community colleges and can take up to a year to complete.
Courses in these programs cover topics like medical terminology, podiatric procedures, anatomy and physiology, and administrative tasks.
Some programs also include internships for hands-on experience.
Certification is not mandatory but is highly recommended for better job prospects.
The American Society of Podiatric Medical Assistants (ASPMA) offers the Podiatric Medical Assistant, Certified (PMAC) certification.
To be eligible for certification, candidates should have completed their high school education, have a minimum of 6 months of experience, and pass an examination.
Continuing education is encouraged to keep up with advances in podiatric medicine.
Advanced training in specialized areas like wound care, surgery assisting, or podopediatrics may be beneficial for career advancement.
Podiatric Medical Assistant Salary Expectations
A Podiatric Medical Assistant can expect to earn an average salary of $34,800 (USD) per year.
However, the actual earnings can vary significantly based on factors such as professional experience, specific skills, location, and the type of healthcare facility.
Podiatric Medical Assistant Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Podiatric Medical Assistant need?
Podiatric Medical Assistants should have excellent communication skills, both for understanding patient needs and for communicating effectively with podiatrists and other healthcare staff.
They should also be detail-oriented to accurately record patient history and treatment information.
Basic clinical skills, such as taking vital signs and assisting with minor surgeries, are also crucial.
In addition, they should be comfortable on their feet as they may be standing for extended periods.
What qualifications does a Podiatric Medical Assistant need?
Podiatric Medical Assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent to start.
Some states require Podiatric Medical Assistants to complete a formal education program, often at a community college or vocational school.
Most Podiatric Medical Assistants are also expected to have Basic Life Support or CPR certification.
What should you look for in a Podiatric Medical Assistant’s resume?
Look for evidence of relevant education and certifications, as well as any experience in a healthcare setting.
It’s also important to find signs of good interpersonal skills and attention to detail, as these are critical for patient care.
If the role involves specific duties, such as assisting with surgeries or taking X-rays, relevant experience or additional qualifications should be highlighted.
What qualities make a good Podiatric Medical Assistant?
A good Podiatric Medical Assistant should be compassionate and patient, able to put people at ease in what can be a stressful situation.
They should be attentive and detail-oriented, ensuring that all patient information is accurately recorded and communicated.
The best Podiatric Medical Assistants are also reliable and flexible, ready to adapt to a fast-paced environment and the changing needs of patients and podiatrists.
Is it difficult to hire a Podiatric Medical Assistant?
The difficulty in hiring a Podiatric Medical Assistant can vary depending on the location and specific demands of the role.
There may be a smaller pool of qualified candidates in rural or underserved areas.
Offering competitive salary and benefits, opportunities for continuing education, and a positive work environment can help attract and retain the best candidates.
Conclusion
So, there we have it.
Today, we’ve given you an insider’s view into what it really means to be a Podiatric Medical Assistant.
And guess what?
It’s not just about basic medical care.
It’s about shaping the future of foot and ankle health, one patient at a time.
With our handy podiatric medical assistant job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to take a step forward.
But why stop there?
Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precision-crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.
Remember:
Every patient interaction is a part of a bigger journey.
Let’s embark on that journey. Together.