Receptionist
- Employer
- West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust
- Location
- Bury St. Edmunds, IP33 2QZ
- Contract
- Permanent
- Posted
- 6 October 2026
- Closing date
- 20 October 2026
Role overview
The ideal candidate will have strong communication skills, the ability to prioritise and multitask, as well as demonstrable administrative experience. We use a variety of different systems, so being confident in IT and with the ability to pick new things up quickly would be advantageous.
You will be joining a fast-paced and changing environment using a range of clinical systems and Microsoft packages. A working knowledge of Microsoft Office packages, including Word, Excel and Outlook will be essential.
Knowledge of the Trust systems such as eCare, ESR and Open Eyes would be an advantage, however training would be given in respect to any training needs. You should have a flexible approach to working hours and duties and the ability to think creatively.
Experience of working to deadlines, on your own initiative and maintaining strict confidentiality are also essential. Sometimes we are contacted by individuals who may be distressed or upset, the ability to deal with such situations confidently and sensitively is vital.
Working as part of the reception team you will be responsible for greeting patients at reception, checking and updating personal details while maintaining patient confidentiality. Using ESR and other relevant booking systems you will arrange follow-up appointments and update details accurately and efficiently.
You'll have excellent communication skills and will deal appropriately with enquires both by telephone and in person. Please see job description for full details.
Show full NHS role information
To develop and maintain effective working relationships with all Trust staff including clinicians, nursing staff and medical secretaries to provide an accurate, efficient, professional and seamless service to patients and visitors. To ensure patient case notes and clinic lists are available before the commencement of the clinic.
To check patient details are correct and amend or update details on the appropriate Patient System and in case notes, when necessary, in accordance with standards set by Information Governance. Reception Function: To greet every patient in a pleasant, professional and calm manner, directing the patient to the appropriate area.
To encourage patients in a polite manner to use self-check in machines where applicable, assisting as appropriate. To deal with patients in a polite and respectful manner complying with their requests where possible and where it is not possible to deal with them with dignity and respect.
To be responsible for placing patients on the outpatient follow up waiting lists, for making follow up appointments ensuring effective and efficient use of all clinic slots and to ensure that all patients data is recorded accurately. To ensure that clinic outcomes, including attendance, DNAs and their pathway status.
To adhere to the Trust Access Policy To assist with changes to workflows with new systems implemented. To liaise closely with Patient Appointment Centre (PAC) to ensure effective communication with regards to the appointments system.
To be able to prioritise and demonstrate good time management. To complete any administrative duties to a high standard as required, taking, recording and acting upon telephone messages and requests in a polite and helpful manner.