Although most jobs in health care provide clinical services, most patient care would not be possible without business support personnel behind the scenes. Medical secretaries, health information workers, and other administrative support jobs keep healthcare organizations running smoothly.

Although some business support employees have a background in a clinical specialty or training in health services, many enter these jobs without a specialized education.

As the health care field expands, the demand for its support systems also increases. The use of new technology by health care professionals will contribute to the growing demand for medical business support professionals.

Specific attributes vary, but all health care support personnel need discretion in dealing with patient confidentiality, good judgment, organizational ability, and initiative. Good communication skills and the ability to get along with various groups of people are also important.

Although specific skills vary between jobs, most business support personnel need basic computer skills and a familiarity with medical terminology, health information, and quality improvement methods.

Healthcare business support personnel work in hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, physician offices, and many other medical settings. Most work in pleasant and comfortable offices. Depending on the position, these workers may be the first impression a patient has of a healthcare facility, or they may have little--if any--patient contact at all.

Most business support positions require work at computer monitors for prolonged periods, so employees must guard against eyestrain and muscle pain.