Community Diagnostic Centre receptionist

Overview

Community Diagnostic Centre receptionist role at The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust. Closing date: 19 February 2026.

• Work within a team
• Admitting and discharging patients on Cerner, including internal transfers and cancellations, in a timely fashion as set by the CDC Manager
• Make follow-up appointments/review clinic entries for patients in the Reception area, and ensure appointment outcomes are completed at the end of each day
• Ensure accurate entry and up-to-date patient details and patient hospital clinical care episodes
• Verify patient details and update on Cerner during the booking/admitting process
• Maintain patient confidentiality and be aware of data protection issues when entering patient information on all Trust administration and clinical information systems
• Book blood tests, X-rays/imaging or other diagnostic appointments as requested
• Follow Trust overseas/private patients’ procedures to ensure the Trust receives the income generated by these patients
• Participate in the Performance Review Development Programme to enhance personal skills
• Comply with 18 weeks RTT pathways including ERS and 2 Week Wait targets and escalate concerns to Clinical Lead
• Answer the phone and deal with patient queries politely and efficiently
• Remain calm during difficult conversations and escalate concerns to Clinical Lead
• Print referrals, reports and test results as requested by the clinician

The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust (PAHT) cares for communities in West Essex, delivering safe, compassionate and high-quality services. We are part of the Neighbourhood Wave and focus on prevention, early support and joined-up services across health, social care and the voluntary sector. We value our people, offer development opportunities, flexible working and wellbeing. We are Disability Confident and an equal opportunities employer, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds.

Join us to help shape the future of care in West Essex.

• Ensure accurate entry and updating of patient details and clinical care episodes
• Verify patient details on Cerner during booking/admitting
• Maintain patient confidentiality and data protection across Trust systems
• Book blood tests, X-ray/imaging or other diagnostics as requested
• Follow Trust procedures for Overseas/Private patients to ensure appropriate income
• Participate in the Performance Review Development Programme
• Support 18 weeks RTT pathways and related targets; escalate concerns to Clinical Lead
• Answer phones and handle patient queries professionally
• Remain calm in challenging conversations and escalate as needed
• Print referrals, reports and test results as requested by clinicians

• GCSE level or equivalent
• NQV Level 2 or equivalent experience

• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Excellent telephone communication
• Ability to work quickly and under pressure
• Ability to maintain absolute patient confidentiality
• Ability to use own initiative and work as part of a team
• Knowledge of an administration system
• Previous clerical experience, NHS clerical experience dealing with the public
• Knowledge of Choose & Book and experience with an electronic booking system

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975; a Disclosure check will be required by the DBS (formerly CRB).

The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust