As a medical assistant, you are responsible for many of the tasks involved in writing correspondence and processing outgoing and incoming mail in the medical office. Proper and efficient management of correspondence and mail is essential to promoting a positive, professional office image.

Choosing the proper letterhead and envelopes helps to ensure professional-looking correspondence. Knowing the parts of a letter and the various letter styles and formats used in the business environment today helps you create effective correspondence. Knowing how to edit and proofread and how to use writing reference books helps ensure that your letters are understandable and well written.

Familiarity with the types of mail services available enables you to choose the proper services to meet the office's mailing needs. Following proper procedures and recommended USPS guidelines ensures that office mail will be received in the most timely manner.

Handling incoming mail is also an important responsibility. Following an established procedure allows you to process and route the mail efficiently.