Administration and clerical officer
Clerical officers control the flow of patient records and appointments within health and social care. Their duties can include starting files for new patients, booking appointments and gathering health statistics. They work in a variety of locations in both community and hospital settings.
Skills required
The job requires someone who:
- is well organised and conscientious
- is reliable
- has good communication skills
- respects confidentiality
- is efficient and flexible
- is methodical
Training programme
Most training takes place on the job, under supervision. Clerical officers can take qualifications offered by the Institute of Health Record Information and Management (IHRIM).
There are a wide variety of clerical courses in colleges throughout Northern Ireland. Courses are available both on a full-time and a part-time basis.
The most popular and sought after qualifications are those gained from BTEC, NVQ and GNVQ courses.
Entry qualifications
Candidates should have up to five GCSEs grades A to C including English and Maths or NVQ Level 2 Administration or equivalent qualifications.
Posts in specialised areas may state as essential criteria, one or more of the following:
- GCSEs in particular subjects
- typing skills or qualifications
- receptionist experience
- computer/ keyboard skills or experience
Career pathway
With experience clerical officers can progress along a promotional pathway to a variety of positions – for example, in finance, human resources, health records, GP surgeries or supervisory and management posts.
How to apply
You should check with local colleges of further and higher education for full details of available courses.
You should apply directly to Trusts in response to job recruitment adverts in the local press and online.