Medical Assistant II - UI Heart and Vascular Center

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Medical Assistant II - UI Heart and Vascular Center

Company: University of Iowa

Location: Iowa City, Iowa, United States

Job Type: Full-time, Regular

Category: Healthcare Operations / Clinical Support

Date Posted: September 09, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level to Junior (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This Medical Assistant II position is integral to the efficient operation of the UI Heart and Vascular Center's Main Campus Outpatient Clinic, ensuring seamless patient care delivery.

• The role involves a blend of direct patient interaction, clinical support, and administrative tasks, contributing to a positive patient experience and effective clinic workflow.

• Key responsibilities include patient history intake, medication record management, and assisting with examinations and treatments, all within a high-performing cardiology and heart surgery center.

• The position requires flexibility to travel to surrounding outreach clinics within a 2-hour radius, necessitating a valid driver's license and adherence to fleet safety standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job title "Medical Assistant II" suggests a role with some established experience, typically 1-2 years, beyond an entry-level MA I. The description emphasizes patient flow, clinical support, and administrative duties, aligning with standard MA II responsibilities in a specialized clinic. The requirement for travel to outreach clinics indicates a need for adaptability and reliable transportation.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Facilitate smooth patient flow through the clinic by effectively interacting with patients, families, and staff, ensuring a welcoming and efficient environment.

• Support healthcare professionals during physical examinations and treatments by accurately documenting patient history, medication records, allergies, and immunization status.

• Manage internal and external medical records diligently to guarantee that accurate and complete patient data is readily accessible for appointments and care.

• Administer routine oral, rectal, or injectable medications that do not require advanced nursing judgment, adhering to strict protocols for certified medical assistants.

• Perform essential routine laboratory tests, including urinalysis and blood work, and conduct electrocardiograms (ECGs) and X-rays as needed for diagnostic purposes.

• Identify and address specific vaccination needs for various patient populations, ensuring compliance with healthcare guidelines.

• Handle a range of clerical tasks, such as answering phones, scheduling appointments, and disseminating information to other departments, contributing to overall clinic organization.

• Assist in the process of obtaining necessary insurance prior authorizations for treatments and procedures, streamlining patient access to care.

• Collaborate closely with nursing staff to ensure timely and thorough clinic work-ups and follow-ups, including patient calls for test results, appointment reminders, and post-procedure care.

• Prepare patient education materials and packets, monitor fax machines for timely distribution, and obtain outside records and laboratory results to support continuity of care.

• Partner with Clinical Technicians across various clinic specialties to optimize the patient experience and maintain efficient clinic operations.

• Actively participate in daily huddles to discuss patient needs, address operational issues, and plan for upcoming clinic sessions.

• Demonstrate accountability for patient satisfaction by consistently providing high-quality care and service.

• Contribute to the discharge planning process to ensure continuity of care and accurate identification of primary care providers.

• Exhibit flexibility by adjusting work schedules to meet clinic and patient needs, including potential travel to other outreach clinics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are detailed and cover a broad spectrum of clinical and administrative duties. The emphasis on patient flow, record management, and direct patient care aligns with a core Medical Assistant II role. The specific mention of cardiovascular services and the "best heart hospital in Iowa" context suggests a need for familiarity with cardiac care protocols and patient education relevant to heart conditions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Certification or registration as a Medical Assistant OR

• Completion of a recognized one-year Medical Assistant program OR

• Completion of a health care profession program with a curriculum covering pathophysiology, medical terminology, basic pharmacology, and medication administration.

• Uploading educational transcripts is required if not certified/registered or if the program completed was not a formal Medical Assistant Program. Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience as a Medical Assistant or in a closely related healthcare role.

• Experience in cardiovascular services is desired. Required Skills:

• Patient care and clinical support proficiency.

• Medical records management and documentation accuracy.

• Medication administration according to scope of practice.

• Performing routine laboratory tests (e.g., urinalysis, blood work).

• Operating diagnostic equipment (e.g., electrocardiograms, X-ray).

• Identifying vaccination needs and administration.

• Scheduling appointments and managing clinic flow.

• Obtaining insurance prior authorizations.

• Patient education and communication.

• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.

• Valid driver's license and ability to meet University Fleet Safety Program requirements. Preferred Skills:

• Demonstrated knowledge of cardiovascular services.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Experience in an outpatient clinic setting.

• Familiarity with healthcare information systems and EMR/EHR.

📝 Enhancement Note: The minimum eligibility requirements are clearly defined, offering two pathways for qualification: formal MA certification/program completion or a broader healthcare profession program with specific coursework. The "Special Qualification Requirement" for a driver's license is crucial given the travel component. The "Desired Qualifications" highlight soft skills and specialized experience that would make a candidate stand out.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested, candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with patient flow optimization, clinical task efficiency, and administrative process management.

• Be ready to provide specific examples of how you have managed medical records accurately and efficiently.

• Showcase instances where you have successfully administered medications or performed laboratory tests, detailing adherence to protocols.

• Prepare to discuss your experience with insurance prior authorizations and patient education delivery. Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be able to articulate their understanding of standard operating procedures in a clinic setting, including patient intake, vital sign measurement, and assisting with procedures.

• Discuss the importance of accurate clinical documentation and how it supports patient care continuity and billing processes.

• Be prepared to explain how you would contribute to maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient clinical workspace.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given this is an MA II role in a clinical setting, a formal "Process & Systems Portfolio" is less common than in pure operations roles. The focus shifts to practical experience and the ability to articulate past responsibilities and process understanding. The notes here infer what aspects of their experience would be most relevant to discuss during an interview, akin to demonstrating a portfolio of skills.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• As a Medical Assistant II at the University of Iowa, a competitive hourly wage is expected, typically ranging from $18.00 to $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, qualifications, and any specialized certifications. This is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in academic medical centers in the Midwest. Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• Retirement Plan: Generous employer-sponsored retirement savings plan (e.g., IPERS).

• Paid Time Off: Accrued vacation, sick leave, and holidays, alongside paid time off for specific events.

• Tuition Assistance: Opportunities for ongoing education and professional development.

• Wellness Programs: Access to employee wellness initiatives and resources.

• Life Insurance and Disability Coverage.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

• Potential for overtime pay. Working Hours:

• This is a 100% full-time position, typically requiring approximately 40 hours per week.

• Standard clinic hours are expected, with the notable absence of nights, weekends, or holidays, contributing to a balanced work-life schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary ranges are estimated based on general knowledge of public university healthcare systems in the Midwest for a Medical Assistant II role. The benefits are typical for a large public institution like the University of Iowa, focusing on comprehensive coverage and long-term financial security. The emphasis on "No Nights, Weekends, or Holidays" is a significant perk for work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Healthcare (Academic Medical Center)

Company Size: Large (University of Iowa Health Care employs over 12,000 employees, students, and volunteers). This large scale implies structured processes, extensive resources, and diverse career opportunities. For operations professionals, it means potential for specialization, access to advanced technologies, and a robust organizational framework.

Founded: The University of Iowa was founded in 1847, with its Health Care system evolving significantly over time to become a leading academic medical center. This long history suggests stability, a commitment to excellence, and a culture that values tradition alongside innovation.

Team Structure:

• The UI Heart and Vascular Center is a specialized unit within the larger University of Iowa Health Care system.

• The Medical Assistant II will likely be part of a multidisciplinary team that includes physicians (cardiologists, cardiac surgeons), Advanced Practice Providers (NPs, PAs), registered nurses, clinical technicians, and administrative staff.

• Reporting structure typically involves a direct supervisor (e.g., Clinic Manager, Nursing Supervisor) with oversight from department leadership.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, requiring seamless interaction with various healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care and efficient clinic operations. Methodology:

• The University of Iowa Health Care emphasizes a data-driven approach to patient care, focusing on outcomes, patient experience, and advanced clinical technologies.

• Workflow planning and optimization strategies are likely employed to manage patient flow effectively within the outpatient clinic setting.

• Automation and efficiency practices are pursued where applicable, though the primary focus remains on direct patient care and support.

Company Website: https://www.uiowa.edu/ and specific to healthcare: https://uihc.org/

📝 Enhancement Note: The context provided highlights the University of Iowa's status as a leading academic medical center. This implies a culture of continuous learning, research integration, and a commitment to high standards of patient care. The scale of the organization suggests opportunities for professional growth and exposure to a wide range of medical cases and technologies.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a "Medical Assistant II," typically indicating a foundational level with 1-2 years of experience. It serves as a stepping stone for individuals looking to build a career in healthcare support, with opportunities for further specialization or advancement within the MA track or into other allied health professions.

Reporting Structure: The Medical Assistant II will report to a direct supervisor within the UI Heart and Vascular Center's Main Campus Outpatient Clinic, likely a Clinic Manager or a Lead Nurse. This structure provides clear lines of communication and performance guidance.

Operations Impact: While not a direct revenue-generating role, the Medical Assistant II significantly impacts operational efficiency and patient satisfaction. By ensuring smooth patient flow, accurate record-keeping, and effective support for clinicians, they contribute to the overall productivity of the clinic and the positive reputation of the UI Heart and Vascular Center. Their role is critical in optimizing the patient journey and allowing physicians to focus on complex medical decisions.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Potential to gain in-depth experience and knowledge within cardiovascular services, becoming a subject matter expert in this specialized field.

• Skill Development: Opportunities to expand clinical skills, learn new diagnostic procedures, and enhance administrative capabilities.

• Further Education: Eligibility for tuition assistance programs can support pursuing advanced degrees or certifications in nursing, allied health, or healthcare administration.

• Advancement: Potential to move into a Medical Assistant III role, lead MA roles, or transition into other administrative or clinical support positions within the University of Iowa Health Care system.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth opportunities are framed within the context of a large academic medical center, emphasizing both clinical specialization and broader career pathways. The MA II level is presented as a solid foundation for a career in healthcare support.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site position within a busy, high-volume outpatient clinic setting at the UI Heart and Vascular Center's Main Campus. The environment is dynamic, fast-paced, and requires constant interaction with patients and healthcare teams.

Office Location(s):

• Primary location: Main Campus Outpatient Clinic, Iowa City, Iowa.

• Travel required to surrounding Outreach community clinics within a 2-hour radius of Iowa City. This necessitates reliable transportation and a valid driver's license. Workspace Context:

• The workspace involves direct patient interaction in examination rooms, clinical labs, and administrative areas.

• Access to necessary medical equipment, diagnostic tools, and electronic health record (EHR) systems will be provided.

• Collaboration is key, with frequent interaction with physicians, nurses, and other allied health professionals in a team-oriented atmosphere. Work Schedule:

• The schedule is designed to be 100% full-time, approximately 40 hours per week.

• A significant advantage of this role is the absence of nights, weekends, or holidays, offering a predictable and balanced work schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description emphasizes the on-site nature of the role and the dynamic clinic environment. The travel requirement to outreach clinics is a critical factor for candidates to consider, highlighting the need for a driver's license and comfort with mobile work within a defined region.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and cover letter for minimum qualifications and desired skills. Uploading transcripts may be required for verification.

• Hiring Manager Interview: Typically with Jordan Adam or another designated hiring manager. This stage will focus on assessing experience, understanding of clinical and administrative tasks, and fit with the team's workflow. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your experience.

• Clinical Skills Assessment/Panel Interview: May involve a practical demonstration of core MA skills or a panel interview with team members (nurses, physicians, other MAs) to evaluate technical proficiency, problem-solving abilities, and collaborative potential.

• Final Interview: Potentially with departmental leadership to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and confirm understanding of the role's demands, including travel.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume & Cover Letter: Ensure these documents clearly highlight your MA certifications, relevant program completion, direct patient care experience, and any experience in cardiology or related fields. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Managed patient flow for an average of 30 patients per day").

• Transcript Discussion: Be prepared to discuss your coursework and any specific skills or knowledge gained during your educational program, especially if it wasn't a dedicated MA program.

• Behavioral Examples: For the interview, prepare STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) examples for key responsibilities, such as managing patient records, handling difficult patient interactions, assisting with procedures, or coordinating prior authorizations.

• Travel Experience: If you have prior experience traveling to different clinic sites, be ready to discuss how you managed logistics and ensured consistent patient care across locations.

Challenge Preparation:

• Clinical Scenario Questions: Anticipate questions about how you would handle common patient scenarios, such as a patient presenting with chest pain, a patient with a medication question, or a patient who is anxious.

• Process Improvement Ideas: While not a formal operations role, be ready to briefly discuss any observations you've made about improving clinic efficiency or patient experience in previous roles.

• Understanding of the MA Role: Demonstrate a clear understanding of the scope of practice for a Medical Assistant II in an academic medical center, particularly within a specialized field like cardiology.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process emphasizes documentation (resume, cover letter, transcripts) and behavioral interviewing. While a formal portfolio isn't expected, candidates must be ready to verbally "present" their experience and skills through detailed examples. The mention of a "UI Heart and Vascular Center" and "best heart hospital in Iowa" suggests that demonstrating specific knowledge or interest in cardiology will be beneficial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Electronic Health Record (EHR) System: Proficiency with a major EHR system (e.g., Epic, Cerner) is crucial for managing patient records, documenting encounters, and accessing patient information. Specificity regarding which EHR the University of Iowa uses would be helpful, but general proficiency is key.

• Medical Equipment: Familiarity with standard medical equipment used in clinics, such as blood pressure cuffs, stethoscopes, EKG machines, centrifuges, and potentially basic diagnostic imaging equipment.

• Laboratory Testing Equipment: Experience with point-of-care testing devices for urinalysis and blood work.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary analytics role, MAs contribute to data collection. Familiarity with how data is captured within the EHR for patient tracking and reporting purposes is beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable in the traditional sense, but understanding how patient scheduling systems and communication platforms (e.g., patient portals) function is important.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for a Medical Assistant II is primarily focused on the EHR system and direct clinical tools. The University of Iowa Health Care likely uses a sophisticated EHR system. Candidates should highlight any experience with similar systems and standard medical equipment.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Patient-Centered Care: A commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality care that prioritizes patient well-being and satisfaction.

• Excellence: Striving for the highest standards in all aspects of patient care and operational efficiency, reflecting the "best heart hospital in Iowa" status.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: A strong emphasis on working effectively with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to achieve common goals.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding ethical standards and taking responsibility for one's actions and contributions to patient care.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: A culture that encourages learning and adapting to new technologies and best practices in healthcare.

Collaboration Style:

• Interdisciplinary: Expect a highly collaborative environment where MAs work closely with a diverse team of healthcare professionals.

• Communication-Focused: Open and clear communication is vital for patient safety and efficient clinic operations. Regular participation in huddles and team meetings is expected.

• Supportive: The team likely fosters a supportive atmosphere where members assist each other to manage workload and ensure optimal patient outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values align with those typically found in leading healthcare institutions, emphasizing patient care, excellence, and collaboration. The "best heart hospital" designation reinforces a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Pace and Volume: The Main Campus Outpatient Clinic is likely a high-volume environment, requiring efficiency and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

• Travel Requirements: Adapting to travel between different outreach clinics can present logistical challenges and require flexibility.

• Complex Patient Needs: Working within a specialized cardiology unit means encountering patients with complex cardiac conditions and potentially high-stress situations.

• Adapting to New Technologies/Protocols: Continuous learning is necessary to stay updated with evolving medical practices and EHR system updates.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Opportunities to receive advanced training in cardiovascular care protocols and procedures.

• Professional Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining certifications like Basic Life Support (BLS) and potentially others relevant to cardiac care.

• Tuition Assistance: The University of Iowa offers tuition assistance, enabling MAs to pursue further education in nursing or allied health fields.

• Mentorship: Potential to learn from experienced physicians, nurses, and senior MAs within the UI Heart and Vascular Center.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a busy clinic environment, with the added complexity of travel. The growth opportunities are substantial, especially given the university setting and tuition assistance programs.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to manage multiple patient requests simultaneously. How did you prioritize?" (Assesses prioritization and time management skills).

• "How would you handle a patient who is anxious or upset during their visit?" (Evaluates patient communication and empathy).

• "Can you explain the importance of accurate medical record keeping and how you ensure accuracy?" (Tests understanding of clinical documentation and attention to detail).

• "Describe your experience with performing routine laboratory tests or administering medications. What steps do you take to ensure patient safety?" (Assesses technical skills and safety protocols).

• "How do you prepare for travel to different clinic sites? What steps do you take to ensure you have everything needed for patient care?" (Evaluates preparedness and adaptability for the travel component). Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for the UI Heart and Vascular Center specifically?" (Assesses motivation and alignment with the hospital's mission and reputation).

• "What does 'patient-centered care' mean to you, and how do you demonstrate it in your daily work?" (Evaluates understanding of core healthcare values).

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?" (Assesses collaboration and interpersonal skills).

• "What do you know about the UI Heart and Vascular Center's recognition by U.S. News & World Report?" (Shows research and interest). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume Walkthrough: Be prepared to walk through your resume, highlighting specific experiences related to patient care, clinical tasks, and administrative duties. Use the STAR method to elaborate on key achievements.

• Skill Demonstration: If asked about specific skills (e.g., ECG, venipuncture), describe your proficiency and any certifications held.

• Handling Travel: Clearly articulate your comfort and experience with travel, emphasizing your ability to maintain professionalism and efficiency across different clinic sites.

• EHR Experience: Be ready to discuss your experience with EHR systems, detailing your proficiency in tasks such as patient registration, charting, and scheduling.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation focuses on behavioral questions, understanding of patient care principles, and specific skills relevant to the MA role. Highlighting experience with the UI Heart and Vascular Center's strengths and the travel requirement will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Medical Assistant II position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the UIowa Taleo career portal.

• Resume & Cover Letter: Tailor your resume to clearly highlight your MA certification, relevant program completion, and any experience in cardiovascular services or similar clinical settings. Craft a compelling cover letter that expresses your enthusiasm for the UI Heart and Vascular Center and addresses your suitability for the role, including your ability to travel.

• Transcripts: If you are not certified/registered as a Medical Assistant or have not completed a formal Medical Assistant Program, ensure you upload copies of your educational transcripts as requested.

• Interview Preparation: Practice answering behavioral interview questions using the STAR method, focusing on examples that demonstrate your clinical skills, patient care abilities, and adaptability. Be ready to discuss your experience with EHR systems and medical equipment.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with the UI Heart and Vascular Center's mission, values, and its recognition as a top heart hospital. Understand the importance of patient-centered care and teamwork within this environment.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.