The primary purpose of the Caldwell County Health Department is to deliver public health services in Caldwell County. The Dental Assistant performs a variety of clerical and dental assisting tasks in recording and maintaining patient data and reports, billing Medicaid, making appointments, ordering, storing and maintaining supplies, and providing information to individuals and families who are recipients of local health services. Work is performed under the guidance and supervision of professional health personnel and evaluated constantly for satisfactory completion. Public Health is a first responder agency for natural disasters (e.g. hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, winter storms), naturally occurring infectious disease outbreaks (e.g. influenza, SARS), technological hazards (hazardous materials releases, critical infrastructure disruptions), and terrorist incidents. Availability during emergencies and exercises is required.

 

 

Records, files and maintains patients’ medical/dental records including laboratory tests, appointments, and dentist-physician consultations. The assistant will commonly take applications for new patients and this includes obtaining some personal and medical history from patient; determining the eligibility of the patient as outlined by departmental policies and gives the patient the exact date and time of appointments. Makes out recall slips to ensure patients are recalled for treatment according to departmental procedures. Assists in receiving, storing, and issuing dental supplies; prepares necessary requisitions and purchase orders. The assistant will provide chair side assistance to dentists and ensure instruments are ready for use. Provides information for health services recipients; contacts patients by phone or letter regarding test results, interviews and upcoming or overdue appointments. Escorts patients to their destination within the health department; sets up operatories and has all needed supplies ready for use during the clinic hours. Assists the dentist with standard dental assignments and sets up equipment, takes Panorex and Bitewing Radiographs. The assistant interprets doctor’s orders and diagnosis to patients and performs other related duties as required.