Medical Assistant
Company : Catholic Health Initiatives
Location : Durango, CO, 81301-8296
Job Type : Full Time
Salary : 18-27.19 HOUR
Date Posted : 27 December 2025
Job Summary and Responsibilities
Our Medical Assistants (MAs) are highly-valued team members with an important voice in this organization. Our MAs, in partnership with clinic staff and operations, created a structured approach to a more effective, efficient work day with appropriate workloads and a clearer path for professional development. In addition, we've also established one of the first-ever MA Apprenticeship programs with an accredited local college to educate and prepare future MAs for success. As a Medical Assistant you will:
- Assume a supportive role and has responsibility and accountability for facilitating, communicating, and collaborating with both the healthcare team, and the patient/family to identify and meet the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of the patient.
- Promote the optimal health, wellbeing and safety of the patient in accordance with patient care standards, guidelines and the delegation of medical services as defined by State Medical Practice Act.
- May perform a variety of clinical tasks as directed by an authorized health care provider in accordance with our Health Physician Group Scope of Practice.
- May assist with front office duties and scheduling of tests and/or patient appointments. Responsible for accurate chart documentation and medical record maintenance.
- Attend in?service presentations and seminars to facilitate personal and professional growth.
- Demonstrates personal accountability for relationship?based care, organizational mission, and core values.
Medical Assistants are essential to delivering whole person care to our patients. We offer a Medical Assistant Clinical Ladder to support growth and development within the system.
In Colorado, the Pay Ranges Begin at $20.00 for Non-Certified Medical Assistants and $21.25 for Certified Medical Assistants.
Job Requirements
In addition to bringing your whole self to the workplace each day, qualified candidates will need the following:
- Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers through the American Heart Association, required
- High School Diploma or G.E.D., required
Physical Requirements - Medium Work - (Exert up to 50lbs force occasionally, and/or up to 20lbs frequently, and/or up to 10lbs constantly)
Where You'll WorkAt CommonSpirit Mountain Region, we believe in the healing power of humanity and serving the common good through our dedicated work and shared mission to celebrate humankindness.
Mercy Hospital is an 82 bed, acute care hospital located in the scenic southwestern Colorado town of Durango. It is the only hospital in Colorado to be rated by Medicare with five stars for overall hospital quality. It is recognized for excellence in orthopedic and spine surgery and for outstanding patient experience and patient safety. Mercy has also received ten consecutive ‘A’ grades for patient safety from The Leapfrog Group. Our providers use state-of-the-art technology in an environment designed to promote wellbeing and healing of body, mind, and spirit.
Among the many specialty services available at Mercy are emergency care (Level III trauma designation), surgical care, cardiac care (including interventional), Orthopedic and Spine Centers of Excellence, a Family Birthing Center, home care, hospice care more. Durango offers an exceptional quality of life with small town charm, excellent schools, and year-round, world-class outdoor recreation opportunities including snow sports, river sports, hiking, biking, camping and more.
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Frequently asked questions
Durango’s unique combination of a small-town vibe and access to advanced healthcare facilities like Mercy Hospital creates a distinctive work environment for Medical Assistants. The community-focused care approach and outdoor lifestyle often influence team collaboration and patient interaction styles here, setting it apart from larger urban centers.
While Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is mandatory, Mercy Hospital values Medical Assistants with state certification to enhance their clinical responsibilities. Given the hospital's focus on patient safety and quality, having additional credentials aligned with Colorado’s medical practice acts can improve your fit for the role.
Strong communication, multitasking between clinical and administrative duties, and proficiency in medical documentation are essential. Medical Assistants need to balance patient care with organizational tasks, so adaptability and empathy enhance effectiveness in this profession.
Medical Assistants often progress through clinical ladders, gaining certifications and expanding scope of practice. Roles can evolve into specialized areas like orthopedic or cardiac care assistance, or transition into administrative leadership within medical practices.
Besides clinical tasks like taking vital signs and assisting physicians, Medical Assistants often handle scheduling, patient chart maintenance, and coordination between departments, ensuring seamless healthcare delivery.
Catholic Health Initiatives offers structured apprenticeship programs with accredited colleges, plus ongoing in-service training to foster skill growth and career advancement, reflecting their commitment to nurturing Medical Assistants’ potential.
Here, Medical Assistants are integral voices within care teams, supported by innovative apprenticeship models and a clinical ladder system, emphasizing whole-person care blending physical, emotional, and spiritual patient needs.
Starting salaries typically range from $20.00 per hour for non-certified Medical Assistants to around $21.25 for certified professionals in Durango. These reflect local market rates and the hospital’s commitment to competitive compensation.
Durango's demand for Medical Assistants remains steady, driven by Mercy Hospital’s reputation and regional healthcare needs. While competition exists, candidates with certifications and local clinical experience gain a hiring edge.
Expect medium physical workload involving occasional lifting up to 50 pounds, frequent lifting up to 20 pounds, and constant handling of lighter tasks. Physical stamina is important to efficiently manage patient care and equipment.