Receptionist
UHS
Summary
The Receptionist/Operator serves as the first point of contact for patients, visitors, staff, and callers. This role is responsible for managing incoming calls, welcoming guests, providing information and directions, monitoring visitor access, and supporting daily hospital operations in a professional and friendly manner.
Job description
The ideal candidate is customer-focused, organized, calm under pressure, and committed to creating a positive experience for everyone entering or contacting the hospital.
Key Responsibilities
Communication & Phone Operations
- Answer and direct incoming calls using a multi-line phone system.
- Relay messages to staff and physicians promptly and accurately.
- Make announcements using the hospital paging system when needed.
- Maintain knowledge of hospital departments and services to assist callers effectively.
- Manage day and night phone system operations according to established procedures.
Reception & Visitor Services
- Welcome visitors, patients, vendors, and contractors in a courteous and professional manner.
- Ensure all visitors sign in and receive appropriate badges or passes.
- Provide directions and general information to guests and visitors.
- Maintain visitor logs and ensure sign-in materials are readily available.
Patient & Facility Support
- Monitor activity in the lobby and surrounding areas.
- Report unauthorized patient departures or unusual behavior to the appropriate department.
- Notify admitting staff, nursing supervisors, and nursing units when scheduled admissions arrive.
- Maintain accurate awareness of patient admissions, discharges, and transfers.
Administrative Duties
- Receive and log mail, packages, and deliveries.
- Maintain office supplies and an organized reception area.
- Report equipment issues or malfunctions to management.
- Follow on-call schedules and emergency communication procedures.
Safety & Security
- Remain alert to safety, security, fire, and emergency situations.
- Follow hospital policies and procedures related to emergency response.
- Demonstrate the ability to remain calm and professional during high-stress situations.
- Support a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment for patients, visitors, and staff.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Strong verbal communication and customer service skills.
- Basic computer and keyboarding skills.
- Experience using office equipment such as phones, copiers, scanners, and fax machines.
- Ability to multitask and remain composed in a fast-paced environment.
- Previous experience in a receptionist, customer service, call center, or switchboard operator role.
- Familiarity with healthcare or hospital environments.
- Basic knowledge of personal computers and office software.
- Professional and welcoming demeanor
- Excellent communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Strong organizational abilities
- Dependability and professionalism
- Ability to handle confidential information appropriately
- Problem-solving and critical thinking skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Company overview
Universal Health Services, Inc. (UHS) is one of the nation's largest and most respected providers of hospital and healthcare services, operating as a Fortune 300 corporation headquartered in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1979, UHS has grown into a major healthcare enterprise with approximately 99,000 employees and annual revenues exceeding $14 billion. The company operates through its subsidiaries, managing 29 acute care hospitals, 331 behavioral health facilities, and 60 outpatient and other facilities across 39 U.S. states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the United Kingdom. UHS provides comprehensive healthcare services including acute care, behavioral health treatment, cancer centers, and ambulatory surgical centers. The company's strategy focuses on building or acquiring high-quality hospitals in rapidly growing markets and investing in advanced medical equipment and skilled personnel to become the leading healthcare provider in each community it serves. UHS is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: UHS) and has established a strong reputation for delivering compassionate, high-quality care while maintaining financial stability and operational excellence.