subject: Physicians Answering Service Vs. Receptionist Time To Choose [print this page] Is a physicians answering service better than a receptionist? Continue reading and youll get the answer...
Receptionist
A receptionist performs the following tasks:
takes calls, screens, and directs them
takes messages and transfers them
greets clients warmly and answers their queries
greets people arriving at the hospital or corporate house
directs people in the hospital or company to the concerned department
provides information and support to callers
provides general clerical services and administrative support
replies to mails, takes deliveries, sorts out mails, prepares documents, schedules appointments and meetings
keeps a record of calls, appointments, and events in the company
looks presentable as well as keeps the reception area attractive.
Aesthetic value is not so important in case of a physicians answering service.
A receptionist must possess:
excellent oral and written communication skills
professionalism in talk and conduct
knowledge about impeccable customer service
aptness in managing data, organizing, and planning and paying attention to detail
interest in the job because it reflects in the tone of voice
reliable nature, pleasing personality, and ability to handle stress and workload, especially in case of call overload
Hospital Answering Service
An answering service performs the following tasks:
takes calls with a warm greeting and gives the required information, transfers calls, and takes messages
handles devices such as telephone, interactive radio, switchboard, intercom, and others
transfers oral and written messages, and schedules meetings and appointments
transfers emergency calls to the concerned person
keeps the concerned person informed of all calls, maintains a record of calls
maintains confidentiality of patients information and not let a third party access the patients records
Monitors alarm systems to ensure secure conditions
works under the protocol of the hospital and handles the routine inquiries of patients. This is one of the several important features of physicians answering service.
creates a database of calls, messages, and patients records
An answering service must possess:
telephone etiquette
excellent communication skills and the spirit of teamwork
Ability to work under the protocol of the hospital and having an understanding of how the medical field works
computer expertise, technical skill to handle communication devices, and good managing, organizing, and planning skills.
ability to respond promptly and sensibly to diverse calls, and to keep calm during emergencies
ability to handle work pressure and take calls 24x7
reliable nature and the assurance that the system wont break down during call overload
Read and compare the tasks and qualities of a receptionist and that of a physicians answering service carefully. Youd realize that a receptionist comes with certain liabilities. Say, you have to bear their moods, which may affect their way of speaking with the callers. The presentation of a person sitting at the front desk matters too. You just cant hire a shabbily dressed, ill-groomed person. You may need to train the in-house receptionist.
On the contrary, answering service professionals need no training. Theyre a skilled lot. Physical appearance doesnt matter here; its all about communication. Moreover, they are high tech phone experts who know how and what to talk. So, a physicians answering service gets the thumbs up. Its time to bid the receptionist good bye!
