medical assisting cover letter examples

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5 Medical Assistant Cover Letter Examples Made for 2024

• Medical Assistant (MA) Cover Letter
• Entry-Level MA
• MA Externship
• Certified MA
• Medical Administrative Assistant
• Write Your MA Cover Letter

As a medical assistant, your work has an impact on the lives of many. You help out patients and colleagues alike, and your list of daily tasks is impressive, ranging from taking patient vitals and handling blood tests to setting up appointments.

You’re no stranger to administrative work, but writing a cover letter to accompany your medical assistant resume might feel more intimidating. We get it—putting yourself in the spotlight doesn’t always come easy.

We’re here to help you overcome these obstacles and craft applications that get you interviews. Check out our medical assistant cover letter examples and free cover letter generator to make this whole process that much easier.

Medical Assistant Cover Letter Example

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Copy this text for your Medical Assistant cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Houston, TX 77002 (123) 456-7890

June 15, 2023

Nathan Murphy St. Joseph Medical Center 123 Fictional Lane Houston, TX 77002

Dear Mr. Murphy,

As a passionate medical assistant, I am dedicated to ensuring that each patient receives the best care in a safe and comfortable environment. It is this commitment that leads me to apply for the medical assistant position at St. Joseph Medical Center, renowned for its high-quality patient care.

I am a Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) with three years of experience working at Avenue 360 Health & Wellness where I honed my skills in vital signs measurement, medication administration, and sterilization techniques. A key achievement involved streamlining the process of vital signs measurement, reducing patient waiting times by 27%.

Peers and supervisors have often recognized my skill in operating medical equipment. In my previous role, I was also responsible for training new staff in the effective use of medical equipment, leading to a 34% increase in operation without incident.

I also make it a priority to take a patient-centric approach to ensure that their experience is as comfortable and positive as possible. This, along with a commitment to delivering high-quality care, would make me a valuable addition to the St. Joseph Medical Center team.

I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to your mission of providing exemplary community care and would be grateful for the chance to discuss how my skills align with the goals of your esteemed institution. Thank you for considering my application.

Addison Foster

Enclosures: Resume RMA Certification

Why this cover letter works

• You can reference specific achievements—like streamlining measurements of vital signs or leading different types of training. Showcasing your success displays a proactive approach to improving patient care and boosting team productivity.

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Entry-Level Medical Assistant Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your Entry-Level Medical Assistant cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Los Angeles, 90026 (123) 456-7890

Addison Foster Cedars-Sinai Medical Center 123 Fictional Lane Los Angeles, 90026

Dear Ms. Foster,

Having watched my grandmother courageously battle a chronic illness, I developed a profound appreciation for the compassionate care she received from her medical team. Inspired by the impact healthcare professionals made on her life, I am eager to begin my career in healthcare as an entry-level medical assistant at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center to contribute positively to patient experiences.

As a recent graduate, I have acquired skills essential for a medical assistant, including vital signs measurement, phlebotomy, EKG/ECG monitoring, and electronic health records (EHR) management. During my time at PIH Health Hospital in Whittier, I was entrusted with the responsibility of conducting over 20 vital signs measurements daily, ensuring accurate data was recorded. My efficiency in phlebotomy led to a 12% increase in patient throughput in the lab.

I also played an integral role in transitioning the practice to an electronic health records system, which ultimately led to a 32% reduction in administrative time for retrieving patient records, and an improvement in data accuracy.

Cedars-Sinai Medical Center’s reputation for excellence in patient care and innovation resonates with my career goals. I’m particularly inspired by your dedication to continuous learning and quality improvement. I believe my skills and eagerness to make a positive difference can contribute to the high standards of patient care that Cedars-Sinai is renowned for.

Thank you for considering my application. I am very excited about the possibility of being part of the Cedars-Sinai family and contributing to improving patient outcomes and would appreciate the opportunity to discuss in more detail what I can offer Cedars-Sinai. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience.

Elijah Johnson

• Try to make a connection between your personal experiences and career aspirations for a compelling entry-level medical assistant cover letter.
• Even if your only prior experience is in your academic training and externships, by describing your direct contributions, you still provide evidence of your problem-solving skills and proactive approach—desirable traits recruiters are itching to see!

Medical Administrative Externship Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your Medical Administrative Externship cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Seattle, WA 98101 (123) 456-7890

December 12, 2023

Benjamin Moore Seattle Children’s Hospital 123 Fictional Lane Seattle, WA 98101

Dear Mr. Moore:

Seattle Children’s Hospital’s call to contribute to its mission of fostering healing environments for children aligns perfectly with my passion and academic experience in healthcare. As a soon-to-be graduate in a medical assisting program from Seattle Central College, I’m excited to apply my skills and knowledge to the medical assistant extern position.

During my academic journey, I’ve consistently outstripped standard benchmarks. In a recent course, I achieved an accuracy of 93% in reading and charting vital signs—13% above the class average. Beyond academics, my interest in children’s health has been amplified through a semester-long research project focused on pediatric risk factors, hinting at my potential compatibility with the hospital’s environment.

An internship at Franciscan Urgent Care provided hands-on experience in lauded healthcare practices. Over three months, I performed 56 phlebotomy procedures with a 97% first-time success rate, surpassing the clinic’s 87% expectation. Meanwhile, my proficiency with medical software like AthenaHealth and eClinicalWorks ensured efficient records management.

I also assisted in 23 successful EKGs during my tenure, benefiting from not only knowledge but also valuable experience in emergency medical situations. This attests to my capacity to provide top-level care while maintaining composure during high-pressure moments, further fortifying my relevance to your esteemed hospital.

With Seattle Children’s Hospital’s commitment to pioneering care in a supportive atmosphere, I’m eager to bring my skills and passion for healthcare to your dynamic team. The prospect of learning and contributing to such a transformative environment—the continuation, I believe, of an immensely fulfilling journey—is thrilling. Thanks for considering my application.

Luca Moretti

• Draw inspiration from Luca’s medical assistant externship cover letter. Notice how he spotlights his 93% accuracy in reading and charting vital signs during class? Or when he surpasses the anticipated success rate for phlebotomy procedures while interning at Franciscan Urgent Care.

Certified Medical Assistant Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your Certified Medical Assistant cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Denver, CO 80201 (123) 456-7890

Ava Davis Kaiser Permanente Colorado 123 Fictional Lane Denver, CO 80201

Dear Ms. Davis:

Fascinated by Kaiser Permanente Colorado’s commitment to rendering high-quality, affordable healthcare services, I’m motivated to employ my expertise to improve patient experience and streamline medical procedures as a certified medical assistant. The prospect of contributing to an environment focused on proactive, round-the-clock patient care resonates with my aspiration to elevate the standard of care offered to one and all.

At Denver Health Downtown, I implemented infection control and sterilization best practices, reducing infection rates by 22%. Proficient use of platforms such as EHR software advanced my patient assessment skills, leading to a 14% acceleration in patient intake. While at Kindred Hospital Denver, I managed the specimen collection and handling process, resulting in a 31% increase in the accuracy of laboratory results. I also spearheaded the integration of a patient management system, which contributed to a 33% reduction in patient wait times.

My adaptability and expertise in various medical administration domains, from frontline interaction to adhering to and maintaining rigorous back-end compliance, have equipped me with a comprehensive understanding. The potential opportunity to promote Kaiser Permanente’s goal of improving members’ health in a hands-on medical environment excites me.

Looking forward to exploring this opportunity further and making meaningful contributions toward your noble mission.

Liam Andersen

• Go ahead and briefly mention how you intend to contribute to the company’s vision, adding that extra flair to your certified medical assistant cover letter. For instance, commitment to fostering proactive patient care will align with many health organizations’ objectives.

Medical Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your Medical Administrative Assistant cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue New York City, NY 11201 (123) 456-7890

Zoey Turner Weill Cornell Medicine 123 Fictional Lane New York City, NY 11201

Dear Ms. Turner,

As someone deeply committed to supporting healthcare professionals and patients through streamlined administrative processes, I’m excited to contribute to Weill Cornell Medicine’s mission of providing exemplary care, education, and research. My four years of experience as a medical administrative assistant make me an ideal candidate for this role.

During my tenure at HealthCare Plus, I was responsible for managing over 10,000 patient records, ensuring their accuracy and compliance with HIPAA regulations. My adeptness in using medical terminology facilitated effective communication between patients, insurance companies, and medical staff.

I also played a key role in appointment scheduling, handling an average of 50 appointments daily. My attention to detail and ability to multitask resulted in a 24% increase in appointment efficiency and reduced patient waiting times by 13%.

My skills in medical transcription were invaluable in the timely and accurate documentation of physician notes. I transcribed over 2,000 notes with a 98% accuracy rate, which expedited care and minimized administrative bottlenecks.

I am eager to bring my expertise and attention to detail to Weill Cornell Medicine. Your institution’s commitment to patient-centered care resonates with my professional values and goals. I would be honored to discuss how my background can contribute to the ongoing success of Weill Cornell Medicine’s administrative operations. Thank you for considering my application.

Best regards,

Nathan Murphy

• Specifics like highlighting your ability to handle high volumes of work, maintain accuracy, and increase efficiency will make your medical administrative assistant cover letter stand out.
• Go a step further by supplying metrics like “managing over 10,000 patient records,” “handling an average of 50 appointments daily,” or “transcribing over 2,000 notes with a 98% accuracy rate” to give concrete evidence of your claims.

Related cover letter examples

• Customer service
• Operations manager

How to Write a Medical Assistant Cover Letter That Gets You the Job

Your job has taught you all about attention to detail, so you’re already well on your way to crafting an outstanding medical assistant cover letter. The best way to show your future employer that you know your stuff is to establish that you’re thorough and that you care.

How do you do that in a fairly short letter? It’s simple—read the job description from A to Z and make sure that you’re weaving elements of it into your cover letter. For instance, if the listing calls for someone to assist in patient examinations, establish from the get-go that you’ve got fantastic bedside manner and experience in working with people.

Start off on the right foot with a greeting and intro

To start out strong, open your cover letter with a personalized greeting that addresses the hiring manager by name. You can look up the hospital or clinic on LinkedIn, check out its website, or even call them. If you exhaust all other options, you can open with a “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear [Hospital/Clinic] Team.”

After the greeting, try to hook the reader with an interesting opening paragraph that immediately shows why you care about this particular job and what makes you the right fit. Mention things like your dedication to helping patients or your expertise in phlebology, and adjust it for each job listing.

To show you how to avoid the various pitfalls of writing a cover letter, here’s what to watch out for. The example below doesn’t emphasize why this person is a strong candidate.

I saw your advertisement for a job as a medical assistant. I don’t have much experience, but I would like to apply for the role.

Now, the following opening paragraph does a much better job. It immediately establishes a deep connection while highlighting what you hope to bring to the role.

This is the way!

Deep dive into the body of your cover letter

This is the part of your cover letter that follows up on that strong opening you just wrote. These two or three paragraphs need to focus on your career thus far and what you’re most proud of. 

Perhaps you’ve flawlessly managed patient records or scheduled appointments. Or maybe you prepared and dispatched laboratory samples while ensuring they were meticulously labeled.

Back up those achievements with numbers, such as how many patients you saw on a daily basis, or the way your knowledge of various EHR software improved data retrieval times or reduced patient wait time.

Here’s an example of an impactful body paragraph:

Leave a lasting impression with your closing paragraph

The closing paragraph is where you reiterate how excited you are to join this particular company. Explore the website and the job description to find something to mention that shows you’ve done your homework. For instance, if you’re applying to work at a small, local clinic, you could say that you share its dedication to bringing patient care and health awareness to your community.

Include a line that drives home the point that you’re the right person for the job. You can do this by saying, for example, that you’d love to leverage your extensive experience in managing telehealth consultations to increase patient access to fast healthcare at your new workplace of choice.

Make sure to thank the hiring manager for their consideration and end the cover letter with a respectful, “sincerely, [your name].” Here’s how not to seal the deal. This closing line is quite negative. It’s usually best to save that sort of information for when you’ve already secured a job offer.

I’m looking forward to working with you. Keep in mind that I can’t start sooner than next month because I’m going on vacation.

This closing paragraph does it much better—it shows why you want to work there and it’s much more personalized.

They’ll remember you!

I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to your mission of providing exemplary community care and would be grateful for the chance to discuss how my skills align with the goals of your esteemed institution. Thank you for considering my application.

Put a little more emphasis on your past education and certifications. For instance, if you’re a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), put this in your opening paragraph to show that you’re job-ready. You can also talk about past jobs and focus on transferable skills , such as customer service or data entry.

As a medical assistant, your impact is focused on the patients and the running of the healthcare facility. Talk about using your negotiation skills to improve liaising with insurance companies to speed up claim processing. You could also focus on patient-centric metrics, such as assisting physicians and nurses in over 40 examinations per day.

Just like you have to be clear and concise in your administrative tasks, you should keep things to the point in your cover letter. Max it out at 500 words and make sure that they’re all impactful. You should also write a different cover letter for each position applied, matching your experience as a medical assistant to the roles and functions outlined in the job description.

Medical Assistant Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

• Cover Letter Examples
• Cover Letter Text Examples

How To Write a Medical Assistant Cover Letter

To write a great medical assistant cover letter, demonstrate your ability to interface effectively with patients, physicians, and multidisciplinary teams in fast-paced clinical environments. Tell your unique story within the medical field, emphasizing how your professional values align with the organization’s culture and mission statement. This guide provides examples and expert tips to help you craft a winning medical assistant cover letter and land your next job interview.

Medical Assistant Resume Templates and Examples

• Entry-Level
• Senior-Level

Medical Assistant Text-Only Cover Letter Templates and Examples

Joseph Corbin Medical Assistant | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | Portland, OR 12345 | LinkedIn

January 1, 2024

Cynthia Roberts Talent Specialist Hayden Medical Center (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Roberts:

I’m interested in applying for the medical assistant role with Hayden Medical Center. As you can see from my attached resume, I have two years of experience within the health care industry, delivering exceptional patient care in acute care environments. I can provide valuable contributions to your patients and organization.

Hayden Medical Center’s commitment to patient-centered care standards draws me to apply for this opportunity. As a health care professional, I’m a strong proponent of patient advocacy throughout the treatment process. I can support your mission based on my previous achievements:

• Scheduled all patient appointments for a high-volume pediatrics office with six full-time physicians and two nurse practitioners, amounting to up to 40 appointments per day
• Interfaced effectively with diverse patient populations, communicated with empathy and understanding, and contributed to a 95% patient satisfaction rating for the practice
• Obtained patient vitals, including blood pressure, temperature, and diagnostic information, and maintained medical records using electronic health records (EHR) software

I look forward to telling you more about how expertise in patient-centered care can be an asset to your organization. Feel free to contact me via phone or email for any questions you may have about my background. I appreciate your time and consideration.

Joseph Corbin

Cameron Malfara Medical Assistant | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | San Diego, CA | LinkedIn

Lori Taylor Hiring Manager San Diego General Hospital (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Taylor:

I’m reaching out to you regarding the medical assistant job with San Diego General Hospital. With over eight years of experience, I excel in collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality care to diverse patient populations, including both geriatric and pediatric patients. My background in high-volume medical environments would benefit your team.

San Diego General Hospital’s mission statement and commitment to health equity strongly align with my professional values as a health care provider. Providing equal access to quality care is a pivotal issue within the medical community, and I can support your mission based on my career accomplishments:

• Delivered clinical and administrative support to registered nurses and physicians, obtained patient medical history and documentation, and communicated with empathy and compassion, contributing to a 95% patient satisfaction rating
• Coordinated with multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality care to diverse patient populations and support diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives
• Maintained exam rooms in accordance with OSHA standards for health and safety, sanitized exam instruments, and ensured compliance with COVID-19 safety protocols

I would like to schedule an interview to provide more insights into how my experience delivering quality care in high-volume hospital environments would benefit your organization. You may contact me via phone or email at your convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Cameron Malfara

Aliya Jackson Medical Assistant | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | New York, NY 12345 | LinkedIn

Matthew Johnson Hiring Manager St. Luke’s Medical Center (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Johnson:

I would like to apply for the senior medical assistant role with St. Luke’s Medical Center. My proven track record includes supporting nursing teams and physicians in delivering patient-centered care in high-volume hospital environments. I can deliver value to your patients, physicians, and medical teams.

St. Luke’s Medical Center’s reputation for achieving positive patient outcomes draws me to apply for this opportunity. Throughout my career, I’ve collaborated with a variety of medical teams and personnel to enhance clinical efficiency. I can offer positive contributions to your organization based on my previous successes:

• Managed five front office staff for a medical practice with over 8,000 active patients, assigned responsibilities, evaluated performance, and coordinated scheduling
• Oversaw calendars and appointments for four physicians and three nurse practitioners, minimizing patient wait times to under 30 minutes on average
• Supported registered nurses in performing examinations, delivering treatment, and providing high-quality care to patients in a hospital with over 300 beds

I’d like to schedule an interview to discuss how my leadership experience within the medical field could benefit your team. You may contact me via phone or email at your convenience. I appreciate your time and consideration.

Aliya Jackson

Writing a great medical assistant cover letter can often be difficult, as day-to-day job responsibilities tend to be similar for these types of roles. To make a positive impression on the hiring manager, emphasize how your contributions have positively impacted patients and medical teams for previous organizations. Below, we’ll provide additional guidance to help you craft each section of your medical assistant cover letter:

1. Contact information and salutation

List all essential contact information at the top of your medical assistant cover letter, including your name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn URL. Be sure to address the hiring manager by name — Mr. or Ms. [Last Name]. If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, use a variation of “Dear Hiring Manager.” Avoid salutations such as “To Whom It May Concern,” as these types of greetings are generally considered outdated.

2. Introduction

Craft a powerful opening paragraph to introduce yourself and convey your interest in the job at the start of your medical assistant cover letter. Feature one or two notable achievements to draw the reader in and entice them to read further. Be sure to emphasize key clinical skills and medical terminology that match the job description. For instance, if a hospital is focused on evidence-based care, feature this skill set directly in your introduction.

In the example below, the candidate focuses on their experience interfacing with patients across a wide range of ages and demographics. They also emphasize their ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams in high-volume clinical settings. Using a similar approach to capture the nuances of your background will ensure your medical assistant cover letter leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

3. Body paragraphs

Continue to demonstrate your qualifications and career achievements in the body paragraphs of your medical assistant cover letter. Start by mentioning something specific about the hospital’s culture, mission statement, or reputation and how this aligns with your background. This shows you’ve researched the organization prior to applying, which can help differentiate you from other applicants during the job hunt.

In addition, emphasize your ability to communicate effectively with physicians, nurses, and patients in fast-paced health care environments. It’s important to show the hiring manager you’re the right culture fit on your medical assistant cover letter.

San Diego General Hospital’s mission statement and commitment to health equity strongly aligns with my professional values as a health care provider. Providing equal access to quality care is a pivotal issue within the medical community, and I can support your mission based on my career accomplishments:

• Coordinated with multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality care to diverse patient populations and support DEI initiatives

4. Medical assistant skills and qualifications

Featuring clinical skills and qualifications on your medical assistant cover letter is essential. That said, your approach should be different from the resume, as it’s impractical to feature a long list of skills. Instead, tactically integrate key terms from the job description into your paragraphs using natural language. Below, you’ll find a variety of skills to consider highlighting on your medical assistant cover letter:

5. Closing section

In the conclusion of your medical assistant cover letter, feature a call to action (CTA) that invites the hiring manager to schedule an interview. Further emphasize how your background within the health care field can help support the delivery of quality patient care for potential employers. Be sure to thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration in the final sentence.

I’d like to schedule an interview to further discuss how my leadership experience within the medical field could benefit your team. You may contact me via phone or email at your convenience. I appreciate your time and consideration.

Medical Assistant Cover Letter Tips

1. highlight your clinical knowledge.

Hiring managers want to see your comprehensive understanding of clinical terminology and health care policies. When crafting your cover letter, draw attention to key clinical terms that match the job posting. This shows potential employers you have the necessary qualifications to provide quality care in fast-paced, hospital environments.

2. Emphasize communication and interpersonal skills

Empathy, compassion, and interpersonal skills are essential for any health care professional. Hospitals require you to communicate effectively with diverse patient populations and multidisciplinary teams. As you build your content, emphasize this aspect of your experience in your introduction and body paragraphs.

3. Feature patient-centered care and patient advocacy

Highlight your background in patient-centered care and advocacy. The wide adoption of these care standards is due to the integral role they play in driving positive outcomes. Patient-centered care helps you to build relationships that empower your patients, giving them increased agency during treatment.

Medical Assistant Cover Letter FAQs

1. why should i write a medical assistant cover letter -.

Not every hospital will require a medical assistant cover letter during the application process, but including one might be what puts you over the edge if the hiring manager is conflicted. The cover letter lets you tell more of your story as a health care professional and convey your personal values and unique approach to patient care.

2. Are cover letters becoming obsolete? -

Many believe that cover letters have become obsolete. According to a LinkedIn poll conducted by Forbes , 70% of correspondents voted that cover letters are no longer needed during the application process. What these numbers won’t tell you is that while cover letters aren’t always required, writing one demonstrates your enthusiasm and genuine interest in the role you’re applying for. This can sometimes make all the difference in generating interviews during the job search.

3. How long should my medical assistant cover letter be? -

It’s always best to keep your medical assistant cover letter concise and focused, limited to three or four paragraphs. Providing too much information risks overwhelming the reader and distracting them from your most relevant qualifications. Prioritize capturing your most notable health care achievements and experience, omitting mundane job duties and generic phrases.

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Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

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Medical Assistant Cover Letter Example [W/ Templates & Tips!]

You're skilled at taking patient histories, drawing blood, and managing paperwork. There’s no doubt you're great at being a medical assistant.

But when it comes to writing your cover letter, you might feel like you're staring at a blank screen for way too long.

Frustrating, isn't it?

Don't worry, we get it. Making all your skills and experiences stand out on a single piece of paper is tough.

But we’ve got your back. 

In this article, we're going to cover:

• What an Awesome Medical Assistant Cover Letter Looks Like
• 5 Steps to Writing a Great Medical Assistant Cover Letter

3 Essential Medical Assistant Cover Letter Tips

Ready to land that dream job? Let’s dive in!

Medical Assistant Cover Letter Example

5 Steps for the Perfect Medical Assistant Cover Letter

So, you've just seen what a top-notch medical assistant cover letter looks like.

Feeling ready to write your own ? Just follow the steps we're about to show you, and you'll nail it:

#1. Put Contact Information in the Header

Starting your medical assistant cover letter the right way is crucial. Put your contact information right at the top, just like you would on your resume .

Here's what to include:

• Full Name. Always start with your full name at the top of your cover letter.
• Job Title. Be specific about the role you're applying for. Hiring managers regularly handle applications for multiple jobs, so make it easy for them to spot yours.
• Email Address. Use an email that's straightforward and professional. A high school email address like "[email protected]" won't cut it. Stick to something that includes your first and last name, like "[email protected]."
• Phone Number. Provide a correct phone number, as well as include the country code if you're applying for a job abroad.
• Location. Your city and state are generally enough. If you're open to remote work or relocating, make sure to mention so in your cover letter.
• Relevant Links (optional). If you have a LinkedIn profile or another professional website, you can include links to them.

Next, add the hiring manager's contact information under yours:

• Company Name. List the company's name. (In the case of our example above, it’s MedAssistPro.)
• Hiring Manager's Name. Try to find the exact name of the hiring manager for the medical assistant role. Check the job ad or the company’s LinkedIn posting - they usually have what you’re looking for.
• Location. The city and state/country are important, especially if the company has multiple locations. You can also add the street address if you want to be extra specific.
• Email Address (optional). If you can find it, include the hiring manager's email.
• Date (optional). Adding the date of writing on your cover letter gives it a professional touch.

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you've got all the contact details sorted, it's time to address your cover letter to the right person.

And skip the outdated "To Whom It May Concern"—it doesn't make a strong impression.

First things first—do a little digging. Look at the job ad, the company website, or LinkedIn to find the name of the hiring manager for the medical assistant role. Getting their name and email address will help you establish a more personal connection.

Next, go for a formal greeting. We suggest using "Ms." or "Mr." followed by their last name. If you're not sure about their gender or marital status, it's perfectly fine to just use their full name.  For example:

• Dear Ms. Smith
• Dear Alex Smith

If you’re drawing a blank and can't find any details about the hiring manager or the head of the medical department, you can always address the cover letter to the company’s department:

• Dear Medical Assistant Department
• Dear Healthcare Hiring Team
• Dear Human Resources Team
• Dear Head of Medical Staff

Looking for more inspiration? Check out more of our cover letter examples . 

#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement

Hiring managers often spend just a few seconds glancing at an application before deciding whether to read it fully. So, catching their eye right away is crucial for a successful medical assistant cover letter.

Start off by stating your name and why you're excited about this role. 

If you're really into healthcare or this job really speaks to you, let them know. It helps you stand out and makes the hiring manager want to learn more about you.

Doing some homework on the company can also really pay off. The better you understand your future employer, the more you can show you'd be a great fit for their company's culture and vision. 

Not to mention, this tells the hiring manager you're not just sending applications into the void—you're genuinely interested in this particular job.

If you've got some experience, consider opening your cover letter with a standout achievement or skill that sets you apart for this role. 

Just remember to keep it short and sweet. Your goal here is just to spark the hiring manager's interest so they'll want to read more.

#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details

The main part of your medical assistant cover letter is your chance to dive into what makes you the best candidate for the job.

Don't just repeat your resume here; really go into detail with your specific skills and qualifications. Use this space to build a strong case for why you're the person they should hire. Mention any achievements that make you stand out from other candidates for this role, and don't shy away from mentioning a time you improved patient satisfaction scores at your last clinic.

Make sure to look at the job ad and highlight any skills mentioned there. For example, if the job ad asks for someone skilled in patient care or specific EMR software, this is where you should talk about your relevant training or experiences.

Understanding the healthcare facility you're applying to can also give you an edge. If you know they specialize in, say, pediatric care, mention the skills and experiences you gained while working with children and how you’re a good match thanks to them.

Wrap up by sharing your enthusiasm. Make it clear you're not just looking for any job; you're genuinely excited for this specific position as a medical assistant. Show confidence that your unique skills and experience make you the perfect addition to their healthcare team.

#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It (Professionally!)

Ending your medical assistant cover letter is like applying a bandage perfectly—it’s the cherry on top of a job well done, and it leaves a lasting impression.

This is where you want to reassure the hiring manager that you're the right person for the job, so knowing how to end your cover letter is crucial. Use your conclusion to quickly sum up why you're the ideal candidate, recapping the key skills or experiences that set you apart.

Then, invite the hiring manager to take the next step. Adding a call to action, such as asking the hiring manager to schedule an interview or reach out to you, can go a long way.

Lastly, sign your cover letter with a professional closing line and follow it up with your full name. Here's an example:

Feel free to reach out to me at the email or phone number provided to set up an interview at your convenience. I'm eager to discuss my application and how I may be an asset to your team.

Best regards,

Benjamin Tailor

If "Best regards" feels too generic for you, you've got options. Here are some alternatives:

• Warm regards,
• Yours truly,
• Thank you for your time.

Before you send in your cover letter, make sure you’ve avoided these common mistakes !

You've got the lowdown on what makes a standout medical assistant cover letter. 

Now let's put the finishing touches on yours with some must-know cover letter tips :

#1. Match Your Resume

Having a medical assistant cover letter that matches your resume matters.

You want your cover letter’s layout and formatting to look good next to your resume; otherwise, your application might look sloppy and unorganized.

Keep an eye out for your cover letter’s font style and the size of your text—they should be consistent in both your cover letter and resume. Tweak the line spacing and margins, and make sure everything is aligned neatly on the page without spilling over to page two.

Or Use A Cover Letter Template Instead

Need a way to speed things up?

Try our free resume builder by selecting one of the resume templates and use a cover letter template to match. This way, matching the cover letter to your resume becomes a breeze.

Crafted with input from hiring managers worldwide, our templates meet industry standards and make sure your application looks great.

#2. Mention Qualifications

As a medical assistant, highlighting your relevant qualifications is crucial to a successful application.

Your qualifications show you've got the skills and the know-how for the job. But you shouldn’t just repeat the same things that are on your medical assistant resume .

Your medical cover letter is your chance to connect the dots for the hiring manager. Explain how your qualifications make you the perfect fit for the specific medical assistant role. For example, if you’re applying to a blood transfusion clinic and you’re certified in drawing blood or have a knack for putting anxious patients at ease, that’s worth mentioning.

Qualifications aren't just bullet points; they're stories, experiences, and life lessons you can use to frame your medical assistant cover letter in a way that resonates with the job description. Mentioning your qualifications the right way makes you more than a compelling candidate—they make you the right fit.

#3. Be Formal

Keeping your cover letter formal is non-negotiable. This isn't a text to a friend; it's a pitch to a potential employer.

Being formal sets the tone that you're serious and professional. But remember, being formal doesn't mean being stiff or robotic. You can still let your personality shine through.

Just use polite phrases and avoid slang or jargon that's not industry-specific. For example, don't say you "can get stuff done." Instead, say you're "efficient."

Being formal gives you an edge to be considered a solid, professional choice for that medical assistant position.

Key Takeaways

That’s all there is to writing a medical assistant cover letter!

After reading our article, we hope you feel ready to land the job you’re after.

But before we send you on your way, let’s sum up what we talked about so far:

• Start your medical assistant cover letter with an eye-catching opening paragraph to grab the hiring manager’s attention from the start. Mentioning who you are, why you’re writing, and a relevant achievement or experience that makes you qualified for the role.
• Highlight your qualifications in the body of your cover letter and use them to stand out from other applicants. Instead of repeating what your resume says, show the hiring manager how your qualifications tie in with the job description and how you’re the right fit.
• Keep a formal tone throughout your entire medical assistant cover letter to keep it professional and show the hiring team you’re serious.
• Remember to sign your cover letter with an appropriate closing line, followed by your full name.

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7 Medical Assistant Cover Letter Examples

Introduction.

In today's competitive job market, a well-tailored cover letter can make all the difference when it comes to landing your dream job as a medical assistant. While your resume provides a comprehensive overview of your skills and qualifications, a cover letter allows you to showcase your personality, enthusiasm, and specific reasons why you are the perfect fit for the position.

A carefully crafted cover letter can help you stand out from other applicants and capture the attention of hiring managers. It serves as your opportunity to make a strong first impression and highlight the unique qualities and experiences that make you an exceptional candidate.

In this article, we will provide you with several examples of effective medical assistant cover letters. Each example will highlight different aspects of the job application process, allowing you to tailor your own cover letter to suit your individual circumstances. Whether you are a recent graduate entering the field or an experienced medical assistant seeking new opportunities, these examples will provide you with valuable insights and inspiration to create your own compelling cover letter.

So, let's dive in and explore these medical assistant cover letter examples that will help you land your dream job!

Example 1: Certified Medical Assistant Cover Letter

Key takeaways.

Emily's cover letter effectively highlights her experience and qualifications as a Certified Medical Assistant, positioning her as a strong candidate for the position at Mayo Clinic.

When applying for a medical assistant role, it is crucial to showcase your relevant experience in clinical tasks, patient interaction, and administrative responsibilities. This demonstrates your ability to handle the diverse responsibilities of the role.

Emily emphasizes her accomplishments, such as implementing workflow processes that improved patient wait times and leading quality improvement initiatives. These quantifiable achievements provide evidence of her ability to make a positive impact in a healthcare setting.

Highlight specific achievements and improvements you have made in your previous positions. These demonstrate your commitment to delivering high-quality care and your potential to contribute to the organization's success.

Additionally, Emily expresses her alignment with Mayo Clinic's patient-centered approach and commitment to innovation. This shows her genuine interest in the organization and her motivation to be part of a team that shares her values.

Research the company's mission, values, and approach to patient care. Incorporate this information into your cover letter to demonstrate your knowledge and genuine interest in the organization.

Overall, Emily's cover letter effectively presents her qualifications, achievements, and alignment with Mayo Clinic's values, making her a strong contender for the Certified Medical Assistant position.

Example 2: Pediatric Medical Assistant Cover Letter

Sarah's cover letter effectively showcases her qualifications and passion for pediatric healthcare, positioning her as an ideal candidate for the Pediatric Medical Assistant position at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

When applying for a pediatric medical assistant role, it's crucial to highlight your experience and passion for working with children. This demonstrates your commitment to providing compassionate care to young patients.

Sarah emphasizes her experience in assisting healthcare professionals, managing medical equipment, and maintaining patient records, which are essential skills for a medical assistant in a pediatric setting.

Make sure to highlight your relevant technical skills and experience in pediatric healthcare. This demonstrates your ability to handle the unique challenges and responsibilities of working with children.

She also highlights a key achievement - implementing a patient education program - which showcases her proactive approach to improving patient outcomes and her ability to create engaging educational materials.

Highlight any initiatives or projects you have undertaken that have had a positive impact on patient care. This demonstrates your ability to think critically and contribute to the improvement of healthcare processes.

While Sarah's cover letter effectively showcases her experience and achievements, she could have also mentioned any specific certifications or training she has completed in pediatric healthcare.

If you have obtained any specialized certifications or completed relevant training in pediatric healthcare, be sure to mention them in your cover letter. This further reinforces your qualifications and expertise in the field.

Example 3: Dermatology Medical Assistant Cover Letter

Jessica's cover letter effectively highlights her experience and expertise as a Dermatology Medical Assistant, positioning her as an ideal candidate for the position at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

When applying for a specialized medical assistant role, it's crucial to showcase your specific experience in that field. This demonstrates your ability to provide targeted and specialized care to patients.

She emphasizes her experience in dermatology and highlights specific procedures and tasks she has performed, such as assisting with skin biopsies, wound care, and Mohs surgeries. This showcases her technical skills and knowledge in the field.

Highlighting specific procedures and tasks you have experience with helps employers understand the depth of your expertise and your ability to handle the demands of the role.

Jessica also mentions her role as a Lead Medical Assistant at the Cleveland Clinic, where she has taken on additional responsibilities and implemented process improvements. This demonstrates her leadership abilities and commitment to delivering exceptional patient care.

Don't forget to mention any leadership roles or additional responsibilities you have taken on in your cover letter. This shows that you are proactive, adaptable, and capable of contributing to the growth and success of the team.

Overall, Jessica's cover letter effectively showcases her relevant experience, passion for dermatology, and alignment with the values and mission of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

Example 4: Orthopedic Medical Assistant Cover Letter

Michael's cover letter effectively highlights his experience and skills as an Orthopedic Medical Assistant, positioning him as an ideal candidate for the position at the Hospital for Special Surgery.

When applying for a specialized medical assistant role, it's crucial to emphasize your experience in the specific field. This demonstrates your understanding of the unique challenges and procedures associated with orthopedic care.

He provides specific examples of his responsibilities and achievements in previous roles, such as assisting in surgical procedures, managing patient appointments, and coordinating patient schedules. These details showcase his ability to handle diverse tasks and contribute to the overall efficiency of the healthcare team.

Highlighting your specific responsibilities and achievements helps the hiring manager understand the depth of your experience and the value you can bring to the organization. Focus on quantifiable accomplishments and unique contributions.

Michael's mention of his experience working directly with orthopedic surgeons and staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in orthopedic care demonstrates his commitment to professional growth and his ability to adapt to evolving medical practices.

Emphasize your willingness to learn and your dedication to staying current in the field. This shows that you are committed to providing the highest quality of care and are eager to contribute to the hospital's mission of excellence.

Overall, Michael's cover letter effectively showcases his expertise in orthopedic care and his passion for delivering exceptional patient care. By highlighting his specific experience and skills, he presents himself as a valuable asset to the Hospital for Special Surgery.

Example 5: Cardiology Medical Assistant Cover Letter

Jennifer's cover letter effectively showcases her qualifications and experience as a Cardiology Medical Assistant, positioning her as an ideal candidate for the role at Cleveland Clinic.

When applying for a specialized medical assistant position, such as cardiology, it is crucial to highlight your specific knowledge and experience in the field. This demonstrates your expertise and ability to provide specialized care to patients.

She emphasizes her experience with cardiology procedures, medications, and treatments, demonstrating her competence in assisting with various cardiology-related tasks.

Highlight your experience with specific cardiology procedures, medications, and treatments. This showcases your technical skills and ability to provide accurate and comprehensive care to cardiology patients.

Jennifer also mentions her experience in managing complex cardiology cases and participating in quality improvement initiatives, highlighting her ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and contribute to the overall excellence of patient care.

Emphasize your ability to handle complex cases and your involvement in quality improvement initiatives. This demonstrates your dedication to providing the highest level of care and your commitment to continuous professional growth.

To strengthen her cover letter, Jennifer could also mention any certifications or additional training she has received in the field of cardiology.

Don't forget to mention any relevant certifications or additional training you have completed in cardiology. This further reinforces your qualifications and demonstrates your commitment to staying current in the field.

Example 6: Obstetrics and Gynecology Medical Assistant Cover Letter

Olivia's cover letter effectively showcases her experience and passion for providing specialized care in obstetrics and gynecology.

When applying for a role in a specific medical field, highlight your experience and skills that directly relate to the position. This demonstrates your knowledge and expertise in the area, setting you apart from other candidates.

Olivia emphasizes her experience in assisting with various obstetric and gynecological procedures, as well as her ability to provide compassionate care in a sensitive manner. This demonstrates her understanding of the unique needs of patients in this field and her commitment to delivering exceptional care.

Highlight your experience in specific procedures and patient care tasks relevant to the role. This shows your familiarity with the responsibilities and challenges of the position.

Additionally, Olivia mentions her role as a Lead Medical Assistant, highlighting her organizational and leadership skills. This shows her ability to contribute to smooth clinic operations and enhance patient experiences.

If you have experience in a leadership role or have implemented process improvements, be sure to mention it. This demonstrates your ability to contribute to the overall efficiency and quality of care in the healthcare setting.

To further strengthen her cover letter, Olivia could mention any certifications or additional training she has obtained in obstetrics and gynecology.

If you have any specialized certifications or additional training relevant to the position, be sure to highlight them. This demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning and professional development in the field.

Example 7: Geriatric Medical Assistant Cover Letter

Daniel's cover letter effectively highlights his experience and passion for geriatric care, positioning him as an ideal candidate for the Geriatric Medical Assistant position at University of California, San Francisco Medical Center.

When applying for a specialized role, it is crucial to emphasize your experience and expertise in that particular area. This demonstrates your commitment and ability to excel in the specific field of medicine.

He mentions his experience at Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins Medicine, and Massachusetts General Hospital, showcasing his diverse background in medical assisting and his ability to adapt to different healthcare environments.

Highlighting your experience at reputable healthcare institutions can give you a competitive edge. It shows that you have been trained and trusted by renowned organizations, increasing your credibility as a candidate.

Daniel's key achievement of implementing a patient education program to improve medication adherence among elderly patients demonstrates his proactive approach and dedication to improving patient outcomes.

Mentioning specific achievements related to the position you are applying for can set you apart from other candidates. It shows that you are not just a passive participant in your role, but someone who takes initiative and makes a positive impact in the workplace.

To strengthen his cover letter, Daniel could have mentioned any additional certifications or specialized training he has received in geriatric care.

If you have any certifications or additional training that are relevant to the position, be sure to include them in your cover letter. This demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning and your qualifications in the specific area of medicine.

Skills To Highlight

As a medical assistant, your cover letter should highlight the unique skills that make you a strong candidate for the role. These key skills include:

Patient Care : Medical assistants play a crucial role in providing direct patient care. Highlight your ability to assist with examinations, take patient histories, and provide compassionate care. Showcase your knowledge of basic medical procedures, such as taking vital signs, administering medications, and dressing wounds.

Medical Terminology : Demonstrating your familiarity with medical terminology is essential. Include specific medical terms relevant to the field of medical assisting. This shows your ability to understand and communicate effectively with healthcare professionals, as well as your commitment to the profession.

Administrative Tasks : Medical assistants often perform administrative duties, such as scheduling appointments, managing patient records, and handling billing and insurance claims. Emphasize your organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in using electronic health record (EHR) systems. Providing examples of your experience with medical office procedures will strengthen your cover letter.

Vital Signs Measurement : Accurately measuring vital signs, such as blood pressure, pulse rate, temperature, and respiration rate, is an essential skill for medical assistants. Highlight your experience in performing these measurements and your knowledge of normal ranges. This demonstrates your ability to assist in monitoring and assessing patient health.

Electronic Health Records Management : Proficiency in using electronic health records (EHR) systems is crucial for medical assistants. Mention any specific EHR systems you have experience with, such as Epic or Cerner. Highlight your ability to input and retrieve patient information, update medical records, and generate reports. This showcases your efficiency and ability to adapt to technology in the healthcare setting.

Communication : Effective communication is vital for medical assistants. Emphasize your ability to communicate clearly and professionally with patients, healthcare professionals, and colleagues. Highlight your active listening skills, empathy, and ability to provide clear instructions and explanations. Strong communication skills contribute to positive patient experiences and efficient healthcare delivery.

By highlighting these key skills in your cover letter, you can demonstrate your qualifications and suitability for a medical assistant position. Tailor your examples and experiences to align with the specific requirements of the job you are applying for.

Common Mistakes To Avoid In Cover Letters

When crafting your cover letter as a medical assistant, it's important to avoid these common mistakes:

Being Too General : Your cover letter should be tailored to the specific healthcare setting or specialty to which you're applying. Avoid using a generic cover letter that could apply to any medical assistant position. Instead, research the organization and highlight how your skills and experience align with their specific needs.

Failing to Showcase Patient Care Skills : Patient care is a critical aspect of the medical assistant role. Don't forget to highlight your ability to provide compassionate care, communicate effectively with patients, and handle sensitive medical information with confidentiality. Emphasize any relevant certifications or training you have that demonstrate your proficiency in patient care.

Neglecting to Highlight Technical Skills : In addition to patient care skills, medical assistants are expected to have a solid foundation in technical skills. Make sure to mention your proficiency in medical software, electronic health records (EHR) systems, medical coding, and any other technical skills that are relevant to the position. This will show potential employers that you are well-equipped to handle the administrative and clinical tasks required of a medical assistant.

Not Demonstrating Adaptability : Healthcare settings can vary greatly, and employers are often looking for medical assistants who can adapt to different environments and work well in a team. Use your cover letter to showcase your flexibility, ability to multitask, and willingness to learn and grow in new settings. Highlight any experience you have working in diverse healthcare settings or with different patient populations.

Forgetting to Mention Continuing Education : The healthcare field is constantly evolving, and employers value medical assistants who are committed to staying current with industry trends and best practices. If you have completed any continuing education courses, workshops, or certifications, be sure to mention them in your cover letter. This demonstrates your dedication to professional development and your willingness to go above and beyond to provide excellent patient care.

Remember, your cover letter is an opportunity to highlight your unique qualifications and stand out from other applicants. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your cover letter effectively showcases your skills and experience as a medical assistant.

In conclusion, a well-crafted cover letter is a crucial component of a successful job application for a medical assistant position. The examples provided in this article demonstrate the key elements that should be included in a strong cover letter in this field.

By showcasing relevant experience, skills, and achievements, a medical assistant can effectively highlight their qualifications and stand out from other applicants. Additionally, addressing the specific needs and requirements of each job posting shows a genuine interest in the position and organization.

The key takeaways from these examples include the importance of tailoring the cover letter to each job application, showcasing relevant experience and skills, and using a professional and concise writing style. These principles can be applied across all cover letters in the medical assistant category, helping job seekers increase their chances of securing a rewarding position in the competitive field of healthcare.

In conclusion, a well-written cover letter can enhance a medical assistant's chances of landing their desired job by effectively communicating their qualifications and demonstrating their enthusiasm for the position. By following the examples and tips provided in this article, medical assistants can create compelling cover letters that leave a lasting impression on hiring managers.

12 Medical Assistant Cover Letter Examples

Medical Assistants are the vital link between patients and physicians, adept at managing both clinical and administrative tasks while maintaining a compassionate demeanor. Similarly, your cover letter serves as the crucial link between you and potential employers, showcasing your diverse skills, dedication to patient care, and ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. In this guide, we'll delve into the best cover letter examples for Medical Assistants, helping you to present a compelling case for your next role.

Cover Letter Examples

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The best way to start a Medical Assistant cover letter is by addressing the hiring manager directly, if their name is available. Then, introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. Highlight your relevant qualifications and experience in the medical field right from the start. For example, "Dear Dr. Smith, I am excited to apply for the Medical Assistant position at your clinic. With my 5 years of experience in patient care and medical administration, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team." This approach immediately grabs the reader's attention and shows your enthusiasm for the role.

Medical Assistants should end a cover letter by summarizing their interest in the position and expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the healthcare team. They should reiterate their relevant skills and experiences, and how these align with the job requirements. A polite request for an interview or further discussion is also appropriate. The closing should be professional and courteous, using phrases like "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by their full name. It's also important to include contact information, such as a phone number or email address, for easy follow-up. Lastly, they should thank the reader for their time and consideration. This not only shows respect but also reinforces their interest in the position.

A Medical Assistant's cover letter should ideally be about one page long. This length is sufficient to introduce yourself, express your interest in the position, highlight your key skills and experiences, and conclude with a call to action. It's important to keep it concise and to the point, as hiring managers often have many applications to go through and may not have the time to read lengthy cover letters. Remember, the cover letter is your opportunity to make a strong first impression, so make every word count.

Writing a cover letter with no experience as a Medical Assistant can seem challenging, but it's important to remember that everyone starts somewhere. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to approach it: 1. **Start with a Professional Greeting**: Address the hiring manager by name if possible. If not, use a general professional greeting. 2. **Introduction**: Begin by introducing yourself and stating the position you're applying for. Mention where you found the job posting. 3. **Express Your Interest**: Explain why you're interested in the role and the healthcare field. Show enthusiasm and passion for the job. 4. **Highlight Relevant Skills and Education**: Even without direct experience, you likely have skills that are relevant to the job. Highlight any coursework, internships, or volunteer work that's relevant to the role. Discuss any medical knowledge or skills you've gained through your education. 5. **Transferable Skills**: If you have work experience in other fields, highlight transferable skills. These could include customer service, communication, multitasking, or technical skills. 6. **Showcase Your Soft Skills**: Medical Assistants need a variety of soft skills, including empathy, patience, and excellent communication. Provide examples of how you've demonstrated these skills in the past. 7. **Express Your Willingness to Learn**: Show that you're eager to learn and grow in the role. This can help make up for a lack of experience. 8. **Closing**: Thank the hiring manager for their time and express your interest in the opportunity to interview for the position. 9. **Professional Sign-Off**: End the letter professionally with "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name. Remember, the goal of your cover letter is to convince the hiring manager that you have the potential to be a successful Medical Assistant, even if you don't have direct experience in the role. Highlight your passion, relevant skills, and willingness to learn to make a strong impression.

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Medical Assistant Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

Is your medical assistant cover letter limping behind your resume? If that's the case, now is the right time to make it shine! 

In any area of healthcare, medical assistants are necessary team members that help to support both the staff and patients in their various needs. To get this point across, your cover letter has to highlight all your relevant skills and experience. Let us guide you through the writing process with our tips, customizable templates, real-life cover letter samples, and inspiring examples! 

In this guide, we teach you everything you need to know about writing a cover letter as a medical assistant. Keep reading to learn how to:

• Format your medical assistant cover letter header & headline
• Personalize your medical assistant cover letter for a specific job
• Write a captivating medical assistant cover letter introduction
• Showcase your best skills & accomplishments as a medical assistant
• Conclude your medical assistant cover letter with a strong closing statement
• Access top resources for job-seeking medical assistants

1. Format your excellent medical assistant cover letter header & headline

To begin writing your medical assistant cover letter, you must first focus on giving the document structure by creating a header and headline.

Having a well-formatted header and headline helps to give your cover letter a more professional and organized appearance. This, in turn, aids you in leaving a great first impression on an employer.

Your cover letter header should contain all the necessary information about you (the applicant) and the company you're applying to (the employer), including:

• Your name and your professional title
• Your professional contact information (phone number, email address, LinkedIn, etc.)
• The name and department of the company
• The company’s address (especially important if the company has more than one location)

Here is an example of a well-formatted medical assistant header

Jane Doe , Medical Assistant (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/jane-doe

To: Mountain Hills Hospital Assistant & Support Department 1234 Street Address Jefferson, NC, 28640

Following your header is your cover letter headline . This is a short title statement that is often considered an optional element. However, when well-written, a headline can help you tremendously with initially hooking an employer’s attention.

Good headlines include a keyword related to the position, an eye-catching number or trigger word, a powerful adjective or verb, and a promise.

Here is an example of a compelling medical assistant headline

My 3 Best Skills as a Medical Assistant & How I Will Apply Them to Support Your Medical Staff

Trigger Word/Number: 3 Skills Keyword: Medical Assistant Adjective/Verb: Best, Apply, Support Promise: Your Medical Staff – the addition of this statement at the end of your headline informs the employer that you plan to directly talk about the needs of their specific company.

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2. personalize your excellent medical assistant cover letter for a specific job.

If you want to make your medical assistant cover letter truly stand out to employers, you'll need to personalize all of the information for the specific job you are applying to.

The personalization process requires you to thoroughly research the company before writing your letter, looking for information such as:

• The company’s values and mission statement – here you can find keywords and language the company uses that you can reflect in your own writing.
• Any projects or programs the company is involved in – using this information, you can explain how your skills and qualifications will help the company achieve its current goals.
• The name of the person who will review your cover letter – you can use this information to create a personalized greeting that addresses this specific person by name. This also shows the employer that you've done your research!

Here are 3 examples of personalized medical assistant cover letter greetings

• Dear Dr. John Smith,
• Dear Dr. John Smith & the Medical Staff,
• Dear Senior Medical Assistant Joe King, 

3. Write a captivating medical assistant cover letter introduction

Making the actual text of your cover letter eye-catching and persuasive is crucial – and it starts with writing a captivating introduction .

To write a medical assistant introduction that impresses employers , you should include:

• A brief overview of your professional history and goals
• A statement on why you are enthusiastic about applying to this company
• A mutual acquaintance (when possible)

Pro Tip: If you don't have a mutual acquaintance – as many applicants likely don't – you can use professional platforms like LinkedIn to connect with current employees and associates of the company. This is an important step, as it can give your cover letter a highly competitive edge.

Here is an example of a well-written medical assistant cover letter introduction

Dear Senior Medical Assistant Joe King, I am a professional medical assistant with more than 5 years of experience providing administrative support to mental health facilities. My former professor and mentor, Dr. John Smith, recently joined your team of doctors and reached out to me about an opening in the medical assistant department. As my experience and skills are perfectly aligned with the needs of this position, I believe I am the ideal addition to your team.

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4. Showcase your best skills & accomplishments as a medical assistant

Once you have caught the employer’s attention with your captivating introduction, you must keep them interested by describing all your best and most relevant skills, accomplishments, and qualifications.

As you write about your various skills and accomplishments as a medical assistant, make sure the details you include are:

• Specific: Context is important in a cover letter. For instance, don’t just say you have excellent communication skills – explain how you apply these skills in the workplace.
• Quantifiable: Whenever possible, include quantifiable facts and statistics about your accomplishments.
• High-Value: Assess how valuable each of your skills and accomplishments is to a specific employer, and then prioritize them as such.

Here are 6 excellent medical assistant skills to describe in a cover letter

• Patient record keeping
• Preparing lab specimens
• Strong verbal communication with patients
• Knowledge of various medical examinations
• Collaboration and teamwork
• Preparing and administering medications

Here is an example of how to describe an accomplishment in a medical assistant cover letter

As a medical assistant at [Former Employer], one of my core responsibilities was handling patient intake and record-keeping. To help better support the medical staff, I sourced a new electronic record-keeping platform that improved internal communication accuracy by 75%. Additionally, this digital platform sped up the patient onboarding process by 25%.

5. Conclude your medical assistant cover letter with a strong closing statement

Always conclude your cover letter with a strong closing statement that includes key information such as how and when the employer can contact you, as well as when you plan to follow up on your application.

Make sure to include details such as the best number or email to reach you at and what days and times are best for making contact.

Here is an example of a strong closing statement from a medical assistant cover letter

I am excited by this opportunity and am eager to learn more about you and your team. I would love to speak directly within the next week and am available to meet Monday through Thursday between 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The best way to reach me is at (123) 456-7890, or at [email protected] outside of the aforementioned hours.

If I have not heard back by next Tuesday, I plan to reach out and touch base.

With Appreciation,

[Applicant Name]

If you've ever wondered how a cover letter differs from a resume,  this article will tell you everything about the key differences between the two .

6. Top resources for job-seeking medical assistants 

Now that you know how to craft the perfect medical assistant cover letter, it's time to talk about the next step — job hunting. Finding the right work opportunities isn't always a smooth process. But if you know where to look, you're bound to happen upon compelling vacancies sooner rather than later: 

• Industry-specific job boards: By far the most straightforward way of finding suitable job offers is by using platforms like MedicalAssistantJobs.com , MediJobs , and Health eCareers that cater to the medical field specifically. 
• General job search engines: Still, you shouldn't overlook websites like Glassdoor , Indeed , and SimplyHired . Although broader in focus, these can still yield compelling results. 
• LinkedIn: It doesn't matter what career path you choose to walk, LinkedIn is easily one of the most essential job search tools out there! It's perfect for making new connections with fellow medical experts and potential employers alike. 
• Professional associations: Additionally, becoming a member of organizations like the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), the American Registry of Medical Assistants (ARMA), or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) can grant you access to more job listings, networking opportunities, and training programmes. 
• Specialized publications: The best way to showcase your passion for the job is by demonstrating your knowledge of the latest findings and industry news. That's why you should consider following media like: “ CMA Today ,” “ The American Journal of Medicine ,” “ Clinician Reviews .”
• Courses & certifications: Apart from professional associations, online learning platforms such as Coursera , Udemy , or edX can also help you gain new skills and certificates to boost your employability. 

No matter how many job postings you end up responding to, alway remember to tailor each and every one of your cover letters to align as closely as possible to the specific job requirements. After all, every job position is unique, and your medical assistant cover letter should reflect that.

Medical Assistant Cover Letter FAQ

How should i showcase my medical assistant skills in my cover letter.

Highlight specific skills that are relevant to the job description. For example, if you have clinical skills such as taking vital signs or administering injections, mention your proficiency and any related achievements. Always use specific examples to demonstrate how you've successfully applied these skills in past roles, such as improving patient flow or enhancing record-keeping accuracy.

How long should my cover letter be?

Your cover letter should always be concise and to the point, ideally no more than one page. Aim for 2-4 body paragraphs framed by an introductory and a closing paragraph.

Should I include keywords in my medical assistant cover letter?

Yes, you should! Using keywords are essential if you're submitting your job application via the Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Go back to your job posting, and identify key phrases such as "patient care," "medical coding," or "EMR/EHR proficiency." Then continue by incorporating these naturally into your cover letter.

How can I use quantifiable data to enhance my cover letter?

Quantifiable data serve as concrete evidence of your skills and achievements. For example, you might mention that you "Reduced patient wait times by 20% through efficient schedule management" or "Increased clinic revenue by 15% by improving billing processes." Numbers like these demonstrate your impact and the tangible benefits you can bring to the employer.

How can I demonstrate my ability to handle patient care effectively in my cover letter?

Simply by describing specific instances where you provided exceptional service. For example, you could mention a situation where you helped calm an anxious patient or improved patient satisfaction through compassionate care. Try to highlight your ability to communicate effectively with diverse patient populations and manage clinical tasks.

Martin Poduška

Martin is a resume expert and career advice writer at Kickresume. In his five years at Kickresume, he has written hundreds of in-depth, painstakingly researched resume advice articles and, as chief editor, he has also edited and revised every single article on this website. Tens of thousands of job seekers read Martin’s resume advice every month. He holds a degree in English from the University of St Andrews and a degree in Comparative Literature from the University of Amsterdam .

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Medical Assistant   Cover Letter

Medical assistant cover letter (with examples).

If you’re interested in healthcare administration and performing clinical tasks in hospitals, physician officers, and other healthcare facilities, then working as a medical assistant could be a lucrative career path for you .

Not only do medical assistants update a patient’s records, manage appointment schedules, and process patient bills, they also often administer medicine under the supervision of a practicing physician, assist during medical examinations, prepare samples for laboratory testing, and perform basic preliminary healthcare tests, take vital signs, and educate and counsel patients.

The gig is a fast-growing and secure entry-level opportunity for anyone looking to change careers and break into the healthcare industry or for those interested in working in the medical services business.

If you’re vying for a rewarding and fulfilling position as a medical assistant , a compelling and properly structured cover letter will bring you one step closer to getting a job and reaching your biggest career goals within the healthcare industry.

Medical assistant cover letters are a great platform for illustrating your expertise in performing routine administrative and clinical duties and your ability to improve patient care, input clinical notes and manage medical record databases, assist physicians in exam rooms, oversee front office operations, and provide professional customer service.

In your cover letter, your ultimate goal is to emphasize your interest and portray how you’ll be the best researcher for the job.

Writing a perfect cover letter to submit along with your professional resume and job application will help you stand out among a large pool of applicants and up your chances of getting hired and having a smooth employee onboarding experience.

By following a cover letter template, you’ll stand out to hiring managers and make a great first impression on renowned physicians and prospective employers.

Looking for a job? These position are hiring now near you:

• Medical Assistant
• Clinical Medical Assistant
• Medical Assistant Externship
• Registered Medical Assistant
• Medical Assistant/Phlebotomist

Parts of a Medical Assistant Cover Letter

The best medical assistant cover letters reiterate and emphasize the skills and experiences listed in a standard resume or CV while also conveying a job applicant’s passion, personality, and career goals.

When applying to medical assistant job openings, the key to writing a perfect cover letter is highlighting the top skills needed to excel in the career, including flexibility, organization, and impeccable communication and analytical skills .

In a medical assistant cover letter, it is especially imperative to illustrate your competency and proficiency in assisting patients and healthcare professionals, your experience performing administrative duties in a healthcare setting, and your education and previous work qualifications.

Tackling each part of your cover letter is a great way to ensure your most desirable skills and qualifications are explicitly highlighted, and the document is properly structured and professionally written.

A medical assistant cover letter is typically composed of:

A professional header.

A compelling introduction paragraph.

A dense body paragraph that focuses on education, previous experience, patient care, analytical skills, resume achievements, and interest in the position.

A conclusion that offers a proposal or shows why you’re the best-suited candidate for the role.

A professional signature.

Professionals applying for employment opportunities as medical assistants should always double-check their cover letter before submitting their job applications. You definitely don’t want to squash your chances of getting a job because of a few typos.

Generally, cover letters, whether for a full-time career or just an internship , should be between three and four paragraphs long — and definitely less than one page .

The business document should also be formatted with standard one-inch page margins, written in a generic font, like Times New Roman, and organized into well-structured and grammatically correct sentences and paragraphs.

Medical Assistant Cover Letter Opening

The opening line of your medical assistant cover letter is your opportunity to pique a hiring manager ’s interest and make a great first impression.

Hiring managers and prospective employers usually read your cover letter before ever meeting or speaking to you, unless you're applying for a promotion , so it’s important to let your personality come across the paper and put your best foot forward.

The first paragraph of your cover letter should be impressive and to the point.

In the opening paragraph of your medical assistant cover letter, you should aim to professionally introduce yourself , state your interest in the role that you’re applying to, convey your enthusiasm, and illustrate your skill level by mentioning your degree of education or previous relevant work experience .

Here’s a great example of how a successful medical assistant cover letter might begin:

Erin O’Connor Hiring Manager Lincoln Memorial Hospital 102 Leonardo Drive New York, NY 10077 Dear Ms. O’Connor, I am writing to express my interest in the Medical Assistant position with Lincoln Memorial Hospital. I am highly motivated, trained in recording medical histories and taking vital signs, certified in basic life support and CPR, and performing administrative and clinical tasks in healthcare settings. As a certified AAMA Medical Assistant with more than two years of experience providing patient care and managing medical records , I am confident that I would be a great benefit to the hospital.

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Medical assistant cover letter body.

The middle few paragraphs of your cover letter are where you can truly let your skills, knowledge, and qualifications shine.

In the body of your medical assistant cover letter, you should highlight your key skills and abilities, discuss your commitment to patient care, explain your methods of taking vital signs and assisting physicians, and go into detail on your communication and analytical skills.

Since medical assistants are tasked with assisting doctors and medical professionals with important and innovative patient exams and procedures, job-seekers must be highly detail-oriented, organized, and dedicated to their careers.

The body paragraphs of your cover letter are a great area to emphasize these skills and call attention to other important interpersonal skills.

Before writing the body of your cover letter , you should closely read the specific job posting you're applying to and work to trailer your cover letter to the skills, qualifications, and work responsibilities listed in the ad.

Here’s a great example of what the body of a medical assistant cover letter might look like:

Throughout my career as a Medical Assistant, I have perfected my abilities to assist with and perform patient examinations, administer injections, closely follow physician directions and state medical laws and regulations, schedule patient appointments, and keep track of medical records, and more. In my most recent position as a Medical Assistant with Franklin River Healthcare, I was also trained in phlebotomy, recording EKGs, medical coding, and managing Electronic Health Records. In addition to having a proven track record of enhancing patient experiences, successfully assisting physicians with patient examinations, and meticulously recording patient information and managing medical records, I hold an associate ’s degree in healthcare administration and a certification in medical assisting services. Beyond my job-specific skills, education, and technical abilities , I pride myself on my ability to multitask, build relationships with patients, deliver state-of-the-art medical care, pay careful attention to detail, and clearly communicate with physicians, healthcare professionals, and patients.

Medical Assistant Cover Letter Closing Lines

To wrap up your cover letter, you’ll want to tie up any loose ends, summarize your experience, skills, and passion, and close the document with a professional salutation. The conclusion of your cover letter should be clear and concise.

The best cover letters end by asking for a phone or in-person interview or showing interest in continuing in the hiring process.

Conveying your enthusiasm for the role and thanking the hiring manager for their time spent reviewing your cover letter and job application will up your chances of getting a callback and landing an in-person job interview.

Lastly, make sure you close your medical assistant cover letter with an appropriate salutation and a professional signature that includes your contact information.

An excellent way of closing your medical assistant cover letter is like this:

As an experienced Medical Assistant with high-level healthcare and administrative skills , I am excited at the opportunity to put my qualifications to use at Lincoln Memorial Hospital. If given the opportunity to join your prestigious medical team, you can count on me to perform all duties with focus, integrity, and confidentiality. I welcome the chance to discuss this position and explain, in detail, what I can offer the hospital. Thank you so much for your time and consideration. Kind regards, Bentley Smith (917) 234-8756 [email protected]

Example of a Medical Assistant Cover Letter

If you’re in the market for a top-notch and rewarding career as a medical assistant, following a cover letter template could help you land your dream role and break into the healthcare industry . Here’s a great example of a professional and properly formatted medical assistant cover letter:

Erin O’Connor Hiring Manager Lincoln Memorial Hospital 102 Leonardo Drive New York, NY 10077 Dear Ms. O’Connor, I am writing to express my interest in the Medical Assistant position with Lincoln Memorial Hospital. I am highly motivated, trained in recording medical histories and taking vital signs, certified in basic life support and CPR, and performing administrative and clinical tasks in healthcare settings. As a certified AAMA Medical Assistant with more than two years of experience providing patient care and managing medical records, I am confident that I would be a great benefit to the hospital. Throughout the course of my career as a Medical Assistant, I have perfected my abilities to assist with and perform patient examinations, administer injections, closely follow physician directions and state medical laws and regulations, schedule patient appointments, keeping track of medical records, and more. In my most recent position as a Medical Assistant with Franklin River Healthcare, I was also trained in phlebotomy, recording EKGs, medical coding, and managing Electronic Health Records. In addition to having a proven track record of enhancing patient experiences, successfully assisting physicians with patient examinations, and meticulously recording patient information and managing medical records, I hold an associate’s degree in healthcare administration and a certification in medical assisting services. Beyond my job-specific skills, education, and technical abilities, I pride myself on my ability to multitask, build relationships with patients, deliver state-of-the-art medical care, pay careful attention to detail, and clearly communicate with physicians, healthcare professionals, and patients. As an experienced Medical Assistant with high-level healthcare and administrative skills, I am excited at the opportunity to put my qualifications to use at Lincoln Memorial Hospital. If given the opportunity to join your prestigious medical team, you can count on me to perform all duties with focus, integrity, and confidentiality. I welcome the chance to discuss this position and explain, in detail, what I can offer the hospital. Thank you so much for your time and consideration. Kind regards, Bentley Smith (917) 234-8756 [email protected]

Tips for Writing a Medical Assistant Cover Letter

At the end of the day, writing a cover letter can be quite similar across a broad range of professional industries. For a medical assistant cover letter in particular, though, there are a few things you need to keep in mind in order to write a professional and compelling cover letter.

Here are the top three tips all applicants should follow in order to write an effective cover letter and land a competitive and top-notch career as a medical assistant:

Highlight your education. In the healthcare industry, in particular, hiring managers are always looking for job-seekers who are well educated and have the certifications and degrees required to find success in their job. When applying for roles as a medical assistant, it’s important to highlight your education .

Holding a bachelor’s or associate’s degree in a related major, like healthcare management, or completing a postsecondary certificate in medical assisting services can help you stand out from a large pool of job applicants and get hired.

Illustrate your commitment to patient care. When working in any medical setting, being committed to providing the highest quality patient care is imperative. This is especially important for medical assistants, who often spend much of their workday interacting with patients.

Illustrating your commitment to patient care and your ability to provide exceptional service by assisting doctors, properly inputting medical records, closely following clinical policies and procedures, and offering top-notch customer service will help you make a great first impression on hiring managers and prospective employers.

Discuss previous experience working in an office and performing administrative duties. Although the employment of medical assistants is projected to grow much faster than average in the coming years, competition can still be tight among job-seekers. To this end, it’s important to put your best foot forward in your cover letter.

Having previous work experience in a medical office will give you a leg up on the competition and help you land the medical assistant career of your dreams.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to land a rewarding, entry-level position as a medical assistant, a professional and well-written cover letter will help you put your best foot forward, get noticed, and make the hiring process a breeze.

You only get one shot at making a positive and impactful first impression in your medical assistant cover letter. Conveying high-level communication, analytical, and job-specific skills like handling medical records, managing front offices, and providing high-quality patient care is essential to help you get hired as a research assistant .

Using the template and tips outlined in this article, and structuring your cover letter to emphasize your strengths and career goals, will allow you to make a solid first impression and land your dream job as a medical assistant.

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Professional Medical Assistant Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your medical assistant cover letter should immediately convey your proficiency in administrative and clinical tasks. Highlight your ability to perform essential functions such as taking patient histories and managing records. Demonstrate your interpersonal skills and your commitment to patient care. Emphasize experiences that showcase your ability to thrive in a fast-paced medical environment.

Cover Letter Guide

Medical Assistant Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Medical Assistant Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

As you embark on your journey to become a medical assistant, you've likely already started the job application process, only to realize that a compelling cover letter is a must-have. But beware—the trap of merely echoing your resume looms large. Instead, imagine your cover letter as a spotlight on a singular professional triumph that truly defines you. By weaving a narrative around this proud moment, avoiding overused phrases, and keeping it under one page, you'll craft a cover letter that's not just formal, but uniquely yours.

• Personalize your medical assistant cover letter and get inspired by other professionals to tell a compelling story;
• Format and design your medical assistant cover letter to make an excellent first impression;
• Introduce your best achievement in your medical assistant cover letter to recruiters;
• How to make sure recruiters get in touch with you, using your medical assistant cover letter greeting and closing paragraphs.

What is more, did you know that Enhancv's AI can write your cover letter for you? Just upload your medical assistant resume and get ready to forward your job application in a flash.

If the medical assistant isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

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Medical Assistant cover letter example

Alex Johnson

San Francisco, CA

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Emphasize relevant experience: The cover letter specifically mentions a significant achievement at Kaiser Permanente, which aligns with the operational efficiency goals of the prospective employer.
• Show impact on patient care: Highlighting the reduction in patient wait times and enhancement of patient satisfaction showcases the applicant's ability to positively impact patient experiences and outcomes.
• Highlight technical skills: The implementation of a digital transition demonstrates the candidate's proficiency with healthcare technology, an increasingly important aspect in modern healthcare roles.

The format of your medical assistant cover letter: structure, fonts, margins, and more

Your medical assistant cover letter should include a header (with your name, position, and date); a greeting and introductory paragraph; a body and closing paragraphs; and an optional signature.

Remember that you're writing your medical assistant cover letter for recruiters - as the Applicant Tracker System won't scan this content.

Here are a few more tips and tricks to keep in mind when formatting your medical assistant cover letter:

• Use the same font in your medical assistant cover letter and resume . We recommend modern fonts, e.g. Lato and Rubik, to help you stand out, instead of the stereotypical Arial and Times New Roman.
• Each paragraph should have single spacing, which is already set up for you in our cover letter templates .
• Our cover letter builder follows industry standards for your medical assistant cover letter formatting - with a one-inch margin, surrounding your content.
• Always export your medical assistant cover letter in PDF to ensure the image or text quality stays the same and your writing isn't moved about.

The top sections on a medical assistant cover letter

Header: Includes your contact information, the date, and the employer's contact details, which makes it easy for the recruiter to reach out to you for an interview.

Greeting: Addresses the hiring manager by name if possible, showing you've done your research and are serious about the job, which is important in the personalized patient care environment.

Introduction: Briefly introduces you and explains your interest in the medical assistant position, establishing a connection between your career objectives and the clinic or hospital's goals.

Body: This is where you detail your relevant clinical skills, experiences, and any certifications that are essential for a medical assistant, demonstrating that you meet the specific needs of the healthcare provider.

Closing: Politely wraps up the cover letter by reiterating your enthusiasm for the role, the value you'd bring to the team, and includes a call-to-action, such as stating your desire to discuss your application in further detail.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

• Clinical skills (e.g., phlebotomy, administering injections, taking vital signs): Crucial for performing routine patient care and assisting physicians during examinations.
• Medical terminology and healthcare knowledge: Essential for understanding and accurately documenting patient information and communicating with other healthcare professionals.
• Patient care and bedside manner: Important for providing compassionate care and ensuring patient comfort during medical procedures.
• Administrative and organizational skills: Necessary for managing patient scheduling, records, and billing, which are key components of healthcare administration.
• Attention to detail: Critical for maintaining accurate records, ensuring proper dosage of medications, and complying with healthcare regulations.
• Adaptability and problem-solving: Valued for handling unexpected situations, quickly learning new medical software, and adjusting to different providers' preferences.

How to greet recruiters in your medical assistant cover letter salutation

As the saying goes, "You never get a second chance to make a first impression."

Write your medical assistant cover letter salutation to be more personalized to the actual hiring manager, who is set to assess your profile by:

• greeting them on a first-name basis, if you have previously communicated with them (e.g. "Dear Sam,");
• using their last name, if you have more formal communication or haven't spoken to them (e.g. "Dear Mr. Harrows" or "Dear Ms. Marshall");
• writing "Dear HR Team" or "Dear Hiring Manager", if you have no clue about who's recruiting for the role.

Search on LinkedIn, Google, or the company website to find information as to the recruiter's name.

In any case, avoid the impersonal "Dear Sir or Madam".

List of salutations you can use

• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear [Specific Physician or Lead Medical Assistant's Name],
• Dear Dr. [Last Name],
• Dear [Clinic or Department Name] Team,
• Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
• Dear Recruitment Committee,

Get creative with your medical assistant cover letter introduction

Recruiters are going to assess plenty of candidate profiles for the role. Thus, anything you do to stand out will win you brownie points.

Use your medical assistant cover letter introduction to share something memorable about your experience .

But before you go down the rabbit hole of creativity and humor, align your message with the company culture.

For example, if you are applying for a role in some startup, use those first two sentences to tell a funny story (about your experience) to quickly connect with the recruiter.

Choosing your best achievement for the middle or body of your medical assistant cover letter

Now that you have the recruiters' attention, it's time to write the chunkiest bit of your medical assistant cover letter .

The body consists of three to six paragraphs that focus on one of your achievements.

Use your past success to tell a story of how you obtained your most job-crucial skills and know-how (make sure to back these up with tangible metrics).

Another excellent idea for your medical assistant cover letter's middle paragraphs is to shine a light on your unique professional value.

Write consistently and make sure to present information that is relevant to the role.

Closing remarks to end your medical assistant cover letter

Of course, you'll have to show gratitude to the recruiters, who have assessed your profile at the end of your medical assistant cover letter .

A "Thank you for the consideration" would work wonders, instead of the standard "Sincerely yours".

Do you want to make an even better impression?

Close off your medical assistant cover letter by promising how you see yourself excelling in the role and the positive impact you'd bring about.

A sentence that encourages some further action on the recruiter's end could also be a good way to close off the communication (e.g. provide your availability for an interview).

Is it beneficial to mention that you have no experience in your medical assistant cover letter?

Lacking professional experience isn't the end of the world for your medical assistant cover letter .

Just be honest that you may not have had roles in the industry, but bring about so much more.

Like, your transferable skills, attained thanks to your whole work and life experience (e.g. the skills your summer spent working abroad taught you).

Or, focus on what makes you, you, and that one past success that can help you stand out and impress recruiters (think of awards you've attained and how they've helped you become a better professional).

Alternatively, write about your passion and drive to land the job and the unique skill set you would bring to enhance the workplace culture.

Key takeaways

Within this Enhancv guide, we've provided you with plenty of advice and inspiration on writing your medical assistant cover letter:

• Always make sure your medical assistant cover letter is tailored to the role you're applying for to make a good impression on recruiters;
• In your medical assistant cover letter include a header (with your name, the role you're applying for, date, and contact details) and an introduction of up to two sentences that highlight your key accomplishment or why you'd fit the role;
• Focus your medical assistant cover letter body on one sole achievement through your career and all the valuable lessons, skills, and know-how you've learned (that are relevant to the role);
• Ensure your medical assistant cover letter closing statement isn't generic and includes either a call to action or a promise;
• If you lack professional experience, shift recruiters' focus to a relevant achievement (thanks to your academic or versatile experience) or toward your dreams and goals for professional growth.

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• Lightning-fast responses

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Medical Assistant Cover Letter Sample

To build a career in health services, one must present their skills and job experience in a superbly written resume. Once you have decided to apply for a medical assistant job position, make sure to write a perfect cover letter too.

In this article, you will find

• a medical assistant cover letter sample;
• how to start a cover letter professionally ;
• format rules for a cover letter;
• the importance of a superb cover letter structure;
• tips on how to write a cover letter professionally. 

If you want to learn more on how to write a cover letter, check our SkillHub blog to get advice from our experts. Our professional writers will gladly help with write my cover letter request in its best fashion and the shortest deadline!

Cover Letter for a Medical Assistant [Example]

There’s no need for typing more “cover letter sample medical assistant” requests. We have already prepared a cover letter sample written according to the cover letter format rules. 

Check the sample below.

Jamilah Amin

5723 S Damen Ave

Chicago, Illinois(IL), 60636

(872) 207-5674

[email protected]

July 5, 2021

Mark Brown 9361 S Saint Lawrence Ave Chicago, Illinois(IL), 60619

(773) 956-7321

[email protected]

Dear Mark Brown!

I have seen the job post for a newly opened medical assistant job position at GoodLife Centre. I believe that my associate’s degree in medical assisting and a bachelor’s degree in business management will contribute to the commercial success of GoodLife Centre. 

While working as a medical assistant at San Francisco Hospital for 6 years, I have strictly followed the professional requirements. I am highly trained in record management and office administration. My role in the hospital team also included performing basic medical services like taking vital signs. 

Among my recent accomplishments as a medical assistant is the implementation of record-management software. The change I have proposed has reduced critical wait times by 27% and system mistakes - by 35%. As a result, we provided our healthcare services smoothly while the hospital ratings increased. 

Thank you for reading my letter. I am excited to become a part of your organization.

Yet, I hope to hear from you soon. 

Kind regards,

Medical Assistant Cover Letter Template

Having startling work experience and love for helping patients is not enough for one’s job application or medical assistant resume . Once you decide to apply for a medical assistant position, follow the format rules of a modern cover letter. 

An efficient medical assistant cover letter example will be as follows:

• structure : 3-4 paragraphs;
• font : Arial, Times New Roman, etc.;
• spacing : 1.15 or single;
• margins : 1 inch.

Ultimate Guide on How to Write a Medical Assistant Cover Letter

Our SkillHub writers have created a list of tips on writing an effective medical assistant cover letter. Not everyone knows how to write a cover letter properly. For instance, where to put your skills of doctor assistance? Or where to write about your professional accomplishments? 

If you feel lost, our experts will gladly help you compose a great cover letter that nails a job opportunity. 

Check the next section to learn how formatting rules can win you a job interview.

Keep Your Format Rules on Top

If you type in “cover letter examples medical assistant,” you’ll find that all samples contain perfect cover letter formatting. For instance, a job statement always goes in the first part of the text. 

A common cover letter format for any job position contains the following elements:

• header (add contact information here);
• company details;
• closing line.

Also, attach a cover letter to your cv. If you need professional help, rely on professional curriculum vitae writing service . They are professional, helpful, and polite.

Cover Letter Heading

A header is an irreplaceable part of all sample cover letters for medical assistants.

A header is evidence of your written communication skills. That’s why it is so important to mention the necessary information regarding the hiring manager or company department in your job application.

Cover Letter Sample for Medical Assistant [Heading]

Make sure the elements in your cover letter medical assistant structure contain accurate contact information.

Mira Andino

634 Lee Rd SW

Hartselle Alabama (AL), 35640

(321) 643-1120

[email protected]

Date and Company Details on a Cover Letter

Like any other cover letter, medical assistant cover letters must contain information on both the company and hiring manager. 

The elements of this section are: 

• name of the hiring manager or company;
• company adress; 
• phone number;

Don't forget of your Linkedin profile! Now it is a new priority for a job search! If you need help, be aware our Linkedin resume services always are happy to have your back!

Example Cover Letter Medical Assistant [Date and Company Details]

When you apply for a job position to win a career opportunity, make sure your cover letter for medical assistant position reaches the medical office manager. Hence, check the contact information twice. 

(334) 173-7633

945 N Donahue Dr

Auburn, Alabama (AL), 36832

Cover Letter Greeting

A well-written cover letter greeting is a formality that shows an employer your ethical standards. Be formal but friendly here. Yet, use other greeting alternatives for “to whom it may concern.” 

Cover Letter Example for Medical Assistant [Greeting]

Any medical assistant cover letter sample would tell you that a well-written cover letter greeting makes an excellent first impression. You need the latter for an employer to hire you and ensure constant growth in your career.

Dear Mr. Black!

Dear Hiring Management Team! ‍

What to Include in a Medical Assistant Cover Letter [Body]

The body is the core of all medical assistant cover letter examples. This is a place to mention the job position you are applying for, the reason why you have chosen the company, and the professional accomplishments you have. 

Medical Assistant Cover Letter Sample [Body]

The opening paragraph of a cover letter template for medical assistant is a place to list your medical assistant skills and education. For instance:

“I have found your job post on LinkedIn. I believe that my 5-year professional experience in medical assisting in fast-paced settings and my educational background in management will contribute to your company development.”

Closing Paragraph for a Cover Letter

A well-written closing line in a cover letter for a medical assistant will increase your chances of getting hired. One should end the cover letter with a few sentences in the closing paragraph. Keep it concise and polite. Add the closing remark at the end, followed by your name and last name. 

Check the example below.

Medical Assistant Cover Letter Example [Closing]

In the closing paragraph, you may restate your job skills or show your hope for a future interview. A strong ending in medical assistant cover letter samples is always ethical and short.

“Thank you for your time. I hope to hear from you soon. 

Best wishes,

Tim Laverson”

How to Let Your Skills Shine

A well-crafted sample medical assistant cover letter emphasizes your professional skills. If your skills are properly arranged, they beat the applicant tracking system (ATS) and put your cover letter in the first line. 

In your cover letter or job application, divide your skills into Hard and Soft skills columns. For instance:

Hard Skills

• basic medical skills;
• excellent office skills;
• strong computer knowledge; 
• efficient communication skills.

Soft Skills

• time management;
• attention to detail.

You can still get help from a nursing resume writing service to make your resume stand out.

Company Information and Keywords - What to Focus On

Creating a medical assistant cover letter with experience is much easier than making sure you enter the healthcare industry as an entry-level specialist. To make your cover letter efficient, use professional keywords as often as possible while applying for the job. 

Search for the company and use the keywords relevant to the position. For instance, the most appropriate keywords for a medical assistant cover letter are “medical skills,” “interpersonal communication,” “vital signs,” “record system,” “health insurance,” etc.

Final Thoughts

The more cover letter medical assistant examples you explore, the better. To refresh your memory on how to write a cover letter for medical assistant, check our list of tips below.

• Make sure to write a properly structured header with your personal details and the contact information of the company and hiring manager. 
• Use a standard greeting.
• Mention your job qualification, education, and experience in the body of the medical assistant cover letter.
• End it with a proper closing line.

If you need professional assistance with your cover letter writing, check out our SkillHub's resume writer services . Our writers are always ready to help you nail your dream job!

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More Cover Letter Examples

Medical Assistant Cover Letter

Cover letter maker.

When applying for a Medical Assistant position, a well-crafted cover letter can make all the difference. It’s an opportunity to introduce yourself, highlight your skills, and convey your passion for patient care. This guide provides a variety of Medical Assistant Cover Letter examples to suit different scenarios, with guidance on how to write one and essential tips for making a great impression.

What is a Medical Assistant Cover Letter?

A Medical Assistant cover letter is a professional document submitted alongside your resume when applying for a position as a medical assistant. It serves as a personalized introduction, providing an opportunity to highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and why you’re a suitable candidate for the role.

What is the Best Example of a Medical Assistant Cover Letter?

A great cover letter for a Medical Assistant depends on the specific role and your personal experiences, but here’s an example to help you craft your own:

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date]

[Employer’s Name] [Medical Facility’s Name] [Facility’s Address] [City, State, ZIP]

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am writing to apply for the Medical Assistant position at [Medical Facility’s Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. I recently completed my Medical Assistant certification from [Your College Name], coupled with my dedication and compassion for patient care, I believe I am well-suited to make a meaningful contribution to your esteemed team.

During my internship at [Previous Employer’s Name], I honed my skills in patient care, medical procedures, and administrative duties. I managed patient intake and conducted preliminary physical tests, which reinforced my communication skills and attention to detail. Furthermore, I assisted in scheduling patient appointments and managing medical records, ensuring efficient and organized operations.

What makes me unique is my unwavering commitment to providing exceptional patient care. In my previous role, I received commendation from my supervisor for my empathetic patient interactions, particularly with elderly patients. I understand that patient comfort is paramount and strive to provide a calm and supportive environment for all individuals in my care.

I am excited about the possibility of bringing my unique blend of skills and experience to [Medical Facility’s Name]. I am confident that my contributions would be valuable and am eager to discuss how I can further your facility’s mission of providing outstanding patient care.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing this exciting opportunity with you further.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

This cover letter clearly and concisely communicates the candidate’s qualifications, relevant experiences, and dedication to quality patient care.

Size: 29 KB

Free Medical Assistant Cover Letters – Copy & Paste

For your convenience, we have prepared a range of free medical assistant cover letter templates that you can modify and use. Please note that these are provided for inspiration and should be personalized to best highlight your unique skills and experiences.

Medical Assistant Cover Letter Format

A medical assistant cover letter generally follows this format:

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Today’s Date]

[Employer’s Name] [Company’s Name] [Company’s Address] [City, State, ZIP]

I am writing to apply for the Medical Assistant position advertised on [where you found the job listing]. With my certification as a Medical Assistant and [number of years] years’ experience in the field, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your healthcare team.

In my previous role at [Previous Employer’s Name], I successfully performed a wide range of medical and administrative tasks, including taking patient histories, drawing blood, scheduling appointments, and maintaining medical records. My ability to multi-task, attention to detail, and commitment to providing high-quality patient care have been key to my success in this role.

One of my key accomplishments at [Previous Employer’s Name] was implementing a new patient record management system, which improved efficiency by 30%. I believe this experience and my understanding of healthcare technology can be beneficial to [Company’s Name].

I am eager to bring my strong dedication and high-level patient care skills to [Company’s Name] and help further your reputation for patient excellence. I am excited about the opportunity to be part of your team and contribute to your patient care objectives.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background and skills would be a fit for the Medical Assistant position at [Company’s Name].

Size: 30 KB

Medical Assistant Cover Letter with No Experience Example

Even if you lack direct experience, your cover letter can still showcase your transferable skills, eagerness to learn, and passion for patient care. Here’s a no experience cover letter example:

I am eager to apply for the Medical Assistant position at [Medical Facility’s Name]. While I am newly certified and lack formal experience, I bring a wealth of theoretical knowledge from my certification program, a willingness to learn, and a passion for providing excellent patient care.

During my training at [Your College Name], I became proficient in key areas such as medical terminology, patient intake procedures, and basic healthcare tasks. I also gained experience with administrative duties like maintaining patient records and scheduling appointments, skills that will help me keep your office organized and efficient.

What sets me apart is my dedication to patient care. While volunteering at [Volunteer Experience], I developed a strong capacity to empathize with patients and provide comfort during stressful situations.

I am excited about the opportunity to apply my education and passion for healthcare to benefit [Medical Facility’s Name]. I am confident that my enthusiasm to learn, coupled with my dedication to patient care, will allow me to contribute positively to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my educational background and commitment make me an excellent fit for your Medical Assistant position.

Medical Assistant Cover Letter for Externship Example

An externship cover letter often resembles a standard cover letter but places more emphasis on academic achievements and relevant coursework. Here’s a sample:

I am currently a student at [Your College Name], pursuing a degree in Medical Assisting. As part of my curriculum, I am required to complete an externship and am excited to express my interest in the Medical Assistant Externship program at [Medical Facility’s Name].

During my academic career, I have honed my skills in medical procedures, patient care, and healthcare administration, maintaining a [GPA] GPA. I am confident that my theoretical knowledge and hands-on training would enable me to perform the duties of the Medical Assistant efficiently.

Being an active volunteer at [Volunteer Experience], I have developed strong interpersonal skills, enabling me to communicate effectively with patients and healthcare professionals.

This externship is an excellent opportunity for me to gain valuable hands-on experience and contribute to [Medical Facility’s Name]’s renowned patient care. I am excited about the possibility of working alongside the skilled team at [Medical Facility’s Name] and learning from their experience.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to discuss how my academic knowledge and strong work ethic make me a valuable addition to your externship program.

Size: 188 KB

Medical Assistant Cover Letter for Internship Example

Similar to an externship letter, an internship cover letter should highlight relevant coursework, academic achievements, and transferable skills. Here’s a sample:

I am writing to express my interest in the Medical Assistant Internship posted on [where you found the job posting] at [Medical Facility’s Name]. As a diligent student of [Your College Name] in the final year of my Medical Assisting program, I am keen on gaining practical experience to complement my academic knowledge.

Throughout my education, I have acquired a broad understanding of healthcare procedures, medical terminologies, and patient care principles. My professors commend me for my quick learning ability and attention to detail, which I believe are critical traits for a Medical Assistant.

I am particularly interested in [Medical Facility’s Name] because of its reputation for excellent patient care and an environment conducive to learning. I am confident that the skills and knowledge I have acquired in my academic journey would allow me to contribute effectively to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of furthering my professional growth at [Medical Facility’s Name] and am available for an interview at your convenience.

Size: 27 KB

Short Medical Assistant Cover Letter Example

A short cover letter should be succinct and to the point, while still showcasing your skills and qualifications. Here’s a sample:

I’m writing to apply for the Medical Assistant position at [Medical Facility’s Name] advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With a Medical Assisting diploma from [Your College Name] and [number of years of experience] years’ experience in a fast-paced hospital setting, I’m confident I can contribute effectively to your team.

My skills include patient care, performing medical procedures, and administrative tasks. I’m known for my empathy, professionalism, and dedication to patient satisfaction.

I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my experience and passion align with the goals of your facility.

Size: 26 KB

Entry Level Medical Assistant Cover Letter Example

An entry-level cover letter should highlight your academic achievements, relevant skills, and eagerness to learn and grow. Here’s a sample:

I am excited to apply for the Medical Assistant position at [Medical Facility’s Name]. As a recent graduate of [Your College Name] with a diploma in Medical Assisting, I bring a solid theoretical foundation and a passion for patient care.

While my practical experience is limited, I am eager to apply my theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting. I am proficient in a range of medical procedures, have a strong understanding of medical terminologies, and possess excellent interpersonal skills.

I am eager to contribute my enthusiasm, professionalism, and dedication to patient care to your team and would appreciate the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications.

Sample Medical Assistant Cover Letter Example

A well-written cover letter should serve as a sample to others. It should incorporate a balance of your skills, experiences, and personal attributes. Here’s a sample:

I am writing to express my interest in the Medical Assistant position at [Medical Facility’s Name]. I am a certified medical assistant with [number of years of experience] years of experience in various healthcare settings.

My expertise lies in patient care, medical procedures, and administrative tasks. I am known for my empathy, professionalism, and ability to manage multiple priorities efficiently.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.

Medical Assistant Cover Letter for Job Application Example

When writing a cover letter for a job application , highlight your experiences and skills that align with the job requirements. Here’s an example:

I am excited to apply for the Medical Assistant position at [Medical Facility’s Name] as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With [number of years of experience] years of experience in medical assisting, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team.

My expertise includes performing medical procedures, providing patient care, and managing administrative tasks. I am known for my attention to detail, empathy, and dedication to patient satisfaction.

Medical Assistant Cover Letter for Student Example

As a student, you may not have much experience, but you can still highlight relevant coursework, internships, or volunteer work. Here’s a student cover letter example :

I am writing to apply for the Medical Assistant Internship at [Medical Facility’s Name]. As a student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration, I am eager to gain practical experience in the field.

During my studies, I have gained a solid foundation in healthcare concepts, medical terminology, and administrative tasks. My internships at [Previous Internship Place] have further honed my patient care and administrative skills.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to [Medical Facility’s Name].

New Graduate Medical Assistant Cover Letter Example

A cover letter for a new graduate should highlight education, internships, or relevant activities that have prepared you for the role. Here’s an example:

I am excited to apply for the Medical Assistant position at [Medical Facility’s Name]. As a recent graduate from [Your University] with a degree in [Your Major], I am eager to start my career in healthcare.

Throughout my studies, I have gained a deep understanding of healthcare concepts and medical procedures. My internship at [Previous Internship Place] has equipped me with practical skills in patient care and medical administrative tasks.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to [Medical Facility’s Name].

Recent Graduate Medical Assistant Cover Letter Example

As a recent graduate, your cover letter should showcase any experiences and skills that make you an ideal candidate. Here’s a template to guide you:

I am writing to express my interest in the Medical Assistant position at [Medical Facility’s Name]. I recently graduated from [Your University] with a degree in [Your Major] and am excited to bring my knowledge and enthusiasm to a professional setting.

During my studies and internships, I developed a strong foundation in healthcare principles, medical terminology, and patient care. I believe these skills, coupled with my commitment to providing excellent patient care, would make me a valuable addition to your team.

Basic Medical Assistant Cover Letter Example

Even for a basic medical assistant role, your cover letter should be well-structured and demonstrate your abilities. Here’s a basic cover letter  example:

I am writing to apply for the Basic Medical Assistant position at [Medical Facility’s Name]. I believe my passion for healthcare, combined with my administrative and clinical skills, make me an ideal candidate.

I have a solid understanding of healthcare procedures and medical regulations. I am confident in my ability to perform basic administrative tasks, manage appointments, and assist healthcare professionals with clinical procedures.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing my qualifications further.

Clinic Assistant Cover Letter Example

As a clinic assistant, your cover letter should emphasize your ability to handle both clinical and administrative tasks. Here’s a template to assist you:

[Employer’s Name] [Clinic’s Name] [Clinic’s Address] [City, State, ZIP]

I am writing to apply for the Clinic Assistant position at [Clinic’s Name]. My background in healthcare administration, coupled with my patient-centered approach, makes me an excellent fit for this role.

I have experience in handling administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, and coordinating with healthcare providers. Additionally, I am competent in assisting with basic clinical procedures, which I believe will be of significant value to your clinic.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing my suitability for this position further.

Size: 25 KB

Medical Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Example

For a Medical Administrative Assistant position, your administrative assistant cover letter should highlight your organizational skills and experience in healthcare settings. Consider this example:

[Employer’s Name] [Healthcare Facility’s Name] [Facility’s Address] [City, State, ZIP]

I am applying for the Medical Administrative Assistant position at [Healthcare Facility’s Name]. I bring with me exceptional organizational abilities and a deep understanding of healthcare administration.

In my previous role at [Previous Healthcare Facility’s Name], I successfully managed patient scheduling, handled insurance claims, and maintained medical records, while always ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations. I am confident that I can bring the same level of dedication and professionalism to your facility.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications.

Pediatric Assistant Cover Letter Example

When applying for a Pediatric Assistant position, your cover letter should highlight your experience with children and your skills in a healthcare environment. Here’s an example:

[Employer’s Name] [Pediatric Clinic’s Name] [Clinic’s Address] [City, State, ZIP]

I am thrilled to apply for the Pediatric Assistant role at [Pediatric Clinic’s Name]. My experience in pediatric healthcare, coupled with my compassionate nature, makes me an ideal candidate for this position.

In my previous role at [Previous Pediatric Clinic’s Name], I assisted with medical procedures, managed patient records, and provided comfort and reassurance to young patients. My ability to communicate effectively with children and their families will be a significant asset to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute my skills and experience to your clinic.

Oncology Assistant Cover Letter Example

Applying for an Oncology Assistant position requires a cover letter that showcases your specialized skills in oncology care. Here is an example:

[Employer’s Name] [Cancer Center’s Name] [Center’s Address] [City, State, ZIP]

I am writing to express my interest in the Oncology Assistant position at [Cancer Center’s Name]. My background in oncology care, combined with my compassionate approach to patient care, makes me a perfect candidate for this role.

In my previous role at [Previous Cancer Center’s Name], I assisted oncologists in providing high-quality care to patients, managed medical records, and provided emotional support to patients and their families. I am confident in my ability to bring a high level of dedication and professionalism to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to further discuss my qualifications and how I can contribute to your team.

Front Office Medical Assistant Cover Letter Example

The front office medical assistant cover letter should emphasize your administrative skills and patient care. Here’s an example:

I am writing to apply for the Front Office Medical Assistant position at [Healthcare Facility’s Name]. My experience in medical administration and patient care make me a suitable candidate for this role.

In my previous position at [Previous Healthcare Facility’s Name], I honed my administrative skills by managing patient records, scheduling appointments, and handling patient inquiries. My interpersonal skills and compassion allow me to effectively communicate with patients, ensuring they feel comfortable and well-informed.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to bring my skills and dedication to your team.

Cardiology Assistant Cover Letter Example

Applying for a Cardiology Assistant position requires showcasing your specialized knowledge and patient care skills. Here is an example:

[Employer’s Name] [Cardiology Center’s Name] [Center’s Address] [City, State, ZIP]

I am interested in the Cardiology Assistant position at [Cardiology Center’s Name]. My background in cardiac care, coupled with my compassionate nature, makes me an ideal candidate for this role.

At my previous role at [Previous Cardiology Center’s Name], I assisted cardiologists in providing excellent patient care, managed medical records, and helped educate patients about their heart conditions. I am confident that my experience and passion for patient care can be an asset to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to further discuss my qualifications and how I can contribute to your center.

Medical Assistant Cover Letter with Relevant Experience Example

Leveraging your relevant experience in your cover letter can set you apart. Here is a sample:

I am excited to apply for the Medical Assistant position at [Healthcare Facility’s Name]. With [Number of Years of Experience] in the healthcare field, I believe I can make a significant contribution to your team.

In my previous role at [Previous Healthcare Facility’s Name], I performed a variety of clinical and administrative tasks, including patient intake, scheduling, and managing medical records. My experience makes me well-equipped to support your healthcare team in providing excellent patient care.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing my skills and experience to your team.

How do you Write a Medical Assistant Cover Letter?

Writing a medical assistant cover letter involves a few key steps:

1. Identify the recipient: If possible, find out the name of the hiring manager or person who will be reading your letter. Addressing the letter directly to them can make it more personal and effective.

2. Introduce yourself and the position you’re applying for: State the position you’re applying for and where you found the job listing. If someone referred you, mention their name here.

3. Outline your qualifications and experiences: Discuss your relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications. Use concrete examples to illustrate your points and tie them back to the requirements listed in the job description.

4. Show enthusiasm and cultural fit: Explain why you want to work for the organization and how your values align with theirs.

5. End with a call to action: Close the letter by thanking the reader for their time and expressing interest in further discussing your qualifications.

Tips for Medical Assistant Cover Letter

When writing a medical assistant cover letter, keep the following tips in mind:

– Personalize the letter: Tailor each cover letter to the specific job and organization you’re applying to. – Use action verbs and quantify where possible: Words like ‘assisted’, ‘managed’, ‘led’ can make your tasks and achievements stand out. – Proofread: Make sure there are no spelling or grammar mistakes. These can reflect negatively on your professionalism.

In conclusion, a well-written medical assistant cover letter can significantly increase your chances of landing a job interview. It provides an opportunity to highlight your relevant skills, experience, and show how you could be a great fit for the healthcare team.

Text prompt

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• Professional

Write a cover letter for a college student applying for an internship at an educational technology company

Form a cover letter for a high school student seeking a part-time job at a local bookstore.

WTO / Letters and Emails / Cover Letters / Medical Assistant Cover Letter Examples (Writing Tips)

Medical Assistant Cover Letter Examples (Writing Tips)

A medical assistant cover letter is a document that accompanies the resume and is written to show a prospective employer an individual’s interests and qualifications for a medical assistant position .

The cover letter highlights your skills and previous experience that may or may not be reflected in your resume. This cover letter allows you to explain why you are the best candidate for the position and also allows you to address any questions that are asked explicitly in the job posting.

When applying for a medical assistant position, it is crucial to know how to write a cover letter properly. A well-written cover letter will help you create a great first impression with the hiring manager and increase your chances of being picked to proceed with the hiring process. In this article, you will be taught how to write a proper cover letter.

Sample Letters

How to Write a Cover Letter

Knowing how to write the cover letter can be helpful to anyone who is searching for a job as a medical assistant. Whether you are looking for your first position or looking to change positions, writing a great cover letter will help you prepare for interviews and communicate your wishes for the desired position.

Here is a guide on how to write a great cover letter that will help you to present your qualifications and make a great first impression:

Step 1: Introduction

Start the letter by stating the letter’s purpose and why you are writing it. Next, identify the exact position you are applying for and highlight why you are interested in the position. Stating the letter’s purpose and correctly identifying the position you are applying for will help the hiring manager review your application with the metrics set for each available position.

Step 2: Body

When writing the cover letter, the next step is discussing information about your skills and qualifications in the body section. Here are things that you should cover when writing the body of the letter:

Give your qualification’s background

When writing the cover letter, start by discussing your training and qualification background in the body section. This will help the hiring manager know what kind of training you have had. In addition, it is essential to inform the hiring manager about qualifications not covered in your resume that make you an excellent match for the position. This allows the hiring manager to learn more about you, your qualifications, and your background.

Briefly explain any relevant job experience

When writing your cover letter, the following item to discuss is your previous work experience. Briefly explain job experiences relevant to the position you are applying for. This may include working in hospitals, clinics, or other similar environments. It is important to be brief and direct when discussing your work experience, as this information will already be covered in your resume. If you get a call for the interview, you will get to discuss this in greater detail during the hiring process.

Highlight your critical skills and abilities

After discussing your training, experience, and background, discuss your critical skills and abilities in the following section. When discussing your essential skills and abilities, you should focus on the most relevant skills to the job. Focus solely on the skills you bring to the table that the hiring manager can expect if they choose you for the position. Go through the job advertisement, find out what skills the employer is looking for, and address that in your cover letter. Some of the skills you may consider in the cover letter include basic life support, document management, basic nursing skills , general computer skills, medical coding, etc.

Illustrate your commitment to the patient’s care

When writing the cover letter, it is recommended that you address the value of your commitment to patient care. Provide a brief paragraph that discusses your commitment to patient care and effectively communicates why you are the ideal candidate for the position. This will help you demonstrate to the hiring manager how passionate you are about working in healthcare and how much you care about patients and their needs.

Talk about your accomplishments

When writing the cover letter, the next item to include in your accomplishments. Addressing your achievements, awards, and honors that you have received throughout your education and work experience is vital in helping the employer understand how you will fit into the healthcare field and how you can help their organization achieve its goals. Make sure to include any accolades or awards that will demonstrate to them why you are a great candidate for the position.

Ask for an Interview

When writing the cover letter, the next item to include is how you would like to move forward in the hiring process. Asking for an interview is a great way to demonstrate your interest in the position and excitement about potential opportunities. Whether you ask for a phone or face-to-face interview, always make sure to follow up your letter with an email to schedule an appointment at a time that works best for both parties.

Step 3: Conclusion

When writing the cover letter, The final step is to conclude it. To do this effectively, make sure to include the following in your conclusion:

Leave a call to action

The first thing to include in the conclusion of your cover letter is a call to action. It is vital to confirm that you have received the hiring manager’s attention and tell them how they can contact you. Ensure to provide your phone number and email to help the hiring manager contact you if they have any questions. Also, mention that you hope to hear from them regarding the next steps in the hiring process.  

Thank them for reading your letter

The next thing to include in the conclusion of your cover letter is to thank the hiring manager/recipient for their time and consideration. Thank them for taking the time to go through your application.

Cover Letters Samples

The medical assistant cover letter is an integral part of the application process. It is usually the first impression an employer will get of you. Therefore, you must make a great first impression with your cover letter. In addition, you can use this template to write your personal and customized cover letter that highlights your skills, abilities, experience, and how you can fit into the organization.

Given below is a template that you can use to write your cover letter when applying for a medical assistant position:

[Recipient’s name] [Title] [Company name] [Address]

 Dear [name of the hiring manager]

I was pleased to read about the [insert job title] position you presently have open in your company. After reviewing the job description , I think I am an excellent candidate for this position, as my skills, education, and experience are a great match.

After graduating from [insert school name], I began working at [insert hospital name], working as a medical assistant. I was very fortunate to work with doctors, surgeons, and nurses who provided me with a guide about excellent patient care. I worked as a medical assistant for [insert number of years worked] and had many incredible opportunities. I learned how to perform basic lab tests and perform routine checkups. I was also trained to handle IVs and conduct EKGs.

I am very detail-oriented, and I take great pride in my work. Working as a medical practitioner for several years has helped me develop the skills needed to be excellent. My incredible work ethic and attention to detail have led me to have an exceptional record of achievement. I have helped numerous patients in the hospitals I worked at. I was also responsible for caring for many families in the same apartment complex.

I am excited about the opportunity you have presented. My goals are to be a great medical assistant, provide excellent patient care and consistency, and substantially impact other people’s lives through my hard work and dedication.

I believe that my qualifications, skills, and experience make me the ideal candidate for this position.

I can be reached at phone number [insert telephone number] and email address [insert email address]. Thank you once again for your time and consideration. I am looking forward to speaking with you soon.

[Your name]

[Your signature]

Presented below are three unique sample cover letters for applying as a medical assistant, each with a different approach and style, written in simple yet professional language:

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Medical Assistant position at Green Valley Healthcare. With a strong foundation in medical assistance from my studies at Riverdale Community College and a two-year hands-on experience at City Hospital, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.

My experience includes patient care, maintaining medical records , and assisting with routine medical procedures. I am particularly skilled in providing compassionate care and ensuring patient comfort. My ability to work efficiently in fast-paced environments, coupled with my excellent communication skills, makes me a valuable team player.

I am eager to bring my dedication and medical expertise to Green Valley Healthcare. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your esteemed healthcare team.

Michael Cheng

Dear Hiring Committee,

I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to apply for the Medical Assistant role at Sunshine Clinic. My educational background in Medical Assistance from Lakeview Technical Institute, combined with my practical experience at Happy Valley Family Practice, has equipped me with the necessary skills to excel in this role.

During my tenure at Happy Valley, I gained proficiency in clinical and administrative tasks, including patient intake, record keeping, and assisting physicians with examinations. I am known for my attention to detail and my commitment to maintaining a high standard of patient care.

I am confident that my background and skills make me an excellent candidate for the Medical Assistant position at Sunshine Clinic. Thank you for considering my application.

Warm regards,

Rachel Brown

Dear Recruitment Team,

I am excited to apply for the Medical Assistant position at Blue Ridge Medical Center. My recent certification as a Medical Assistant from Summit Medical College, along with my internship experience at Downtown Health Clinic, has prepared me well for this role.

My strengths include effective communication with patients, meticulous record-keeping, and a keen ability to support physicians and nurses with various medical procedures. I am highly organized, a quick learner, and deeply committed to providing quality healthcare.

I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to join Blue Ridge Medical Center and contribute to your team. Thank you for considering my application.

Best regards,

Samantha Blair

The three sample letters for a Medical Assistant position serve as useful guides for several reasons:

• Professional Tone and Clarity: Each letter is written in a clear, concise, and professional manner. This is essential for making a positive first impression. The language is simple yet effective, avoiding overly complex words or jargon that might confuse the reader.
• Structured Format : The writers follow a structured format typical for cover letters: an introduction stating the purpose, a body outlining qualifications and experience, and a closing with a call to action. This format is easy to follow and adapt, making it ideal for guidance.
• Highlighting Relevant Qualifications: Each applicant emphasizes qualifications relevant to a Medical Assistant role, such as education from a specific institute, hands-on experience, proficiency in clinical and administrative tasks, and key soft skills like communication and attention to detail. This highlights how to tailor their own experiences and skills to the job requirements.
• Soft Skills and Professional Attributes: The writers not only showcase technical skills but also their soft skills and professional attributes like dedication, efficiency, and commitment to patient care. These aspects are vital in healthcare roles, emphasizing a well-rounded candidate profile.
• Closing with a Call to Action : Each letter ends with a thank you from the writers and an expression of eagerness or interest in moving forward in the selection process. This polite and proactive closing helps leave a strong, positive impression.

In summary, these sample letters serve as a comprehensive guide for candidates seeking to write their own cover letters for a medical assistant position. They demonstrate essential elements such as structure, relevance, and professionalism, which are key to creating an impactful application.

Letter Writing Tips

When writing the cover letter, make sure that you keep the following tips in mind:

Include strong action verbs

To make your cover letter more effective, use strong action verbs that describe what you are responsible for doing. Action verbs are simply words that describe what you can do or what you did. For example, a strong action verb would be “conducted” when describing something that involved blood tests or bodily fluids. Other action verbs that you may consider using include: adapted, contributed, solved, enhanced, managed, etc., to help your cover letter showcase your accomplishments and capture the hiring manager’s attention.

Relate the letter with the job post

Go through the job posting and reference everything from the job posting in your cover letter. Check the skills, qualifications, level of experience required, and any related keywords in the job posting, and highlight them in your cover letter. You should also include how you can help the company and how working there would fit your career goals.

Follow letter formatting instructions

Some companies are very strict about formatting a cover letter. Make sure you follow their instructions precisely because you might be automatically disqualified if you don’t.

Your cover letter is your first chance to impress the hiring manager and get the attention you deserve. You must make sure your cover letter is well-written and that it highlights the reasons why you are the ideal candidate for the job. Make sure to highlight your particular skills, experience, and goals for the position and include any additional relevant information to the position and company you are applying to. Also, go through your letter and ensure it is free from spelling and grammatical errors. Remember that it is essential to closely follow the job posting guidelines, professional standards, and writing techniques to write a cover letter that will get you noticed. To help you create a great first impression of the hiring manager and increase your chances of being selected to proceed with the hiring process, use the templates and tips provided. The templates will help you structure the cover letter and help you emphasize your strengths and goals while ensuring that no critical information is left out.

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15 Medical Assistant Cover Letter Samples

Table of Contents

Sample Cover Letter For Medical Assistant | What Should The Letter Include?

A Medical Assistant Cover Letter should include:

• A greeting to the hiring manager, such as “Dear [Employer]”
• A statement expressing your interest in the position
• A summary of your relevant education and experience
• Specific examples of skills and achievements that make you a strong fit for the role
• A conclusion thanking the employer for considering your application and expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity to join the team.
• Your contact informtion

Sample Cover Letter For Medical Assistant | What are the skills to include?

Medical assistants play a vital role in healthcare facilities, providing administrative and clinical support to doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Some important skills for a medical assistant to have include communication, attention to detail and interpersonal skills. It’s important to understand what these skills are, so you can phrase them in your cover letter.

Q: What communication skills should a medical assistant have? A: Medical assistants need to be able to communicate effectively with patients, colleagues, and other healthcare professionals.

Q: Why is attention to detail important for medical assistants? A: Medical assistants need to be precise and accurate when recording patient information and performing tasks.

Q: What interpersonal skills should medical assistants possess? A: Medical assistants should be able to build rapport with patients and work well with others as part of a healthcare team.

Q: Why is an organizational skill important for medical assistants? A: Medical assistants need to be able to manage their time effectively and keep track of multiple tasks and patients.

Q: What technical skills should medical assistants have? A: Medical assistants should be proficient with electronic medical records systems and other healthcare-related technology.

Q: What clinical skills may a medical assistant be required to perform? A: Depending on the specific job, a medical assistant may be required to perform tasks such as taking vital signs, administering medications, and assisting with medical procedures.

Q: Why is adaptability important for medical assistants? A: Medical assistants should be able to adapt to changing situations and handle unexpected challenges that may arise in a healthcare setting.

Sample Cover Letter For Medical Assistant |How to beat the ATS when applying for a Medical Assistant job?

As a Medical Assistant, it is important to optimize your resume and cover letter for the Applicant Tracking System (ATS). This may include including relevant keywords and phrases, using a clear and easy-to-read format, and avoiding tables or graphics that may not be compatible with the ATS.

Here are some keywords that you may want to include in your resume and cover letter when applying for a Medical Assistant job, to improve your chances of being selected by an (ATS)

• Clinical support
• Patient care
• Medical terminology
• Electronic medical records
• Vital signs
• Medication administration
• Patient Education
• HIPAA compliance

Medical Assistant Cover Letter Samples

Sample cover letter 1.

Dear [recruiter name],

I’m writing to apply for the Medical Assistant position at your company. I am a recent graduate of [school name] with a degree in Medical Assisting and have been working as a medical assistant at [name of the medical clinic] since graduating. I have experience scheduling appointments, taking vitals, and assisting doctors and nurses in other ways. My passion for the field is evident in my work ethic and commitment to customer service.

I am excited about this opportunity because it would allow me to use my skills in an environment where I can grow professionally while being able to support myself financially through full-time employment. Attached is my resume for review; please contact me if you’d like to schedule an interview or discuss further details about the position. Thank you for your consideration!

Sample Cover Letter 2

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I am writing this letter to apply for the position of Medical Assistant. I have been a receptionist at [company name] for two years, and I am currently working on my Associate’s Degree in Medical Assisting. My experience using computers, data entry, and customer service skills make me an excellent candidate for this position. I have excellent interpersonal skills, and I can work well under pressure while maintaining a positive attitude. I look forward to discussing these qualities with you so we can determine if this position is a good fit for me. Thank you for your consideration!

Sample Cover Letter 3

Dear [name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Medical Assistant position at [company name]. My background as a Medical Assistant is extensive, starting with my time at the University of [school name]. There, I was able to hone my skills and learn how to work with a variety of different patients. I also took part in a clinical rotation where I gained hands-on experience working in an actual medical facility.

After graduation, I worked in an outpatient clinic for two years before moving on to a hospital setting for another year. It was during this time that I discovered my passion for patient care, and after careful consideration decided that becoming a Medical Assistant would be the best fit for me professionally.

I am confident that my skills and experience would make me an excellent addition to your team. Please contact me if you would like to discuss my qualifications further or schedule an interview. Thank you kindly for your consideration!

Sample Cover Letter 4

Dear Mr. [name],

I am writing to apply for the position of medical assistant at your hospital. I have had a great deal of experience in this field, including working as a medical assistant for two years. I am well-versed in all aspects of the job, from taking patient histories to administering injections and x-rays.

I would love the opportunity to work with you and your team again. My last position was at [hospital name], where we worked together for six months. You were an excellent supervisor and mentor during my time there, and I learned so much from you about how to be a better medical assistant.

If you have any questions about my qualifications or experience, please do not hesitate to reach out; I would be more than happy to provide references or other information as needed. Thank you very much for your time and consideration!

Sample Cover Letter 5

Dear [name of contact],

I am writing to apply for the Medical Assistant position at [company name]. I am a hardworking and dedicated individual who is passionate about helping people. I have experience working as a medical assistant for 5 years, and in that time, I have learned how to work quickly, efficiently, and effectively under pressure.

As part of my responsibilities as a medical assistant, I regularly take blood pressure readings, perform EKGs, take patients’ vital signs, assist with injections and other medical procedures, answer phones and take messages, schedule appointments and answer questions from patients over the phone.

In addition to these responsibilities, I also enjoy learning new things about medicine and assisting doctors when they need it most. The most rewarding part of my job is knowing that what I do makes a difference in people’s lives every day.

Sample Cover Letter 6

I am writing to apply for the Medical Assistant position. I believe that my experience as a medical assistant would be a huge asset to your organization.

In the past, I have provided administrative support for a variety of healthcare settings, including an outpatient clinic and an emergency department. In addition to assisting with administrative tasks, I also performed clinical duties such as drawing blood, taking vital signs, and assisting with patient care.

My goal at this time is to expand my knowledge and skills in this field while working with a team of dedicated professionals who share my passion for providing excellent patient care. If given the opportunity to interview for this position, I would appreciate the chance to meet with you.

Sample Cover Letter 7

I am writing to apply for the Medical Assistant job at [company name]. I believe that my experience and skills make me a great candidate for this position.

My background in medical assisting comes from working as a front desk receptionist at a small medical practice. In that capacity, I was responsible for helping patients schedule appointments and answering any questions they had about their health. Additionally, I am adept at transcribing notes from doctors’ visits into the patient’s file so that they can be accessed by other members of the staff.

I have been working as a medical assistant for [company name] for two years, where I assist physicians with patient care, such as taking vital signs, administering medications, and assisting with examinations. I have also received training on how to give injections and draw blood. In addition to these duties, I have also worked as a receptionist at [company name], where I answer phone calls and schedule appointments.

I am looking forward to hearing from you soon.

Sample Cover Letter 8

I’m writing to apply for the position of Medical Assistant at [company name]. I’m a recent graduate from [school name], where I graduated with a degree in biology. I am passionate about helping people and think that this job would be the perfect fit for me.

I have experience working with patients in a clinical setting and feel comfortable assisting them with their needs while maintaining a professional demeanour. I have also worked as a research assistant at [school name] and love being able to help make a difference through my work by conducting research that could potentially save lives.

I would love to learn more about this opportunity and discuss how my skillsets would fit into your team.

Sample Cover Letter 9

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing to apply for the position of Medical Assistant at [company name]. I am a recent graduate of the College of Medicine, and my passion for medicine has never been stronger. I have always wanted to be a part of the medical field, and this position is perfect for me! I am looking forward to contributing my experience and skills to your company.

I have worked as a medical assistant for over three years now at [previous employer name], where I have gained valuable skills in the areas of patient care, administrative support, and office management. I am very organized, efficient, and detail-oriented—qualities that will serve me well in this position. My interpersonal skills are also excellent; I can easily build relationships with others and work well within a team setting. Moreover, my ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines will be an asset in this role.

I would love to learn more about this opportunity by scheduling an interview with you as soon as possible! Thank you very much for your consideration.

The next sample cover letters for medical assistant jobs, each highlighting a different set of skills and experience levels:

Sample Cover Letter 10 Clinical Medical Assistant Experience

Dear Hiring Manager,

As a highly skilled and experienced clinical medical assistant , I was excited to see the opening for a medical assistant at your medical practice. With over 3 years of experience in a fast-paced clinical setting, I have developed excellent skills in patient care, administering medications, and performing medical procedures. I am also proficient in electronic medical records systems and have strong attention to detail.

I am confident that my skills and experience make me the ideal candidate for this position. I am excited about the opportunity to join your team and contribute to the high-quality patient care you provide.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing my qualifications further.

Sample Cover Letter 11 for Medical Assistant with Administrative  Experience

I am excited to apply for the medical assistant position at your healthcare facility. With over 2 years of experience in administrative medical assisting , I am confident in my ability to manage patient records and schedules, communicate effectively with patients and colleagues, and provide excellent customer service.

I am proficient in electronic medical records systems and have excellent organizational skills, which have helped me manage multiple tasks and patients efficiently. Additionally, my strong interpersonal skills have enabled me to build strong relationships with patients and colleagues.

I am excited about the opportunity to join your team and contribute to the success of your healthcare facility. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sample Cover Letter 12  for Entry level Medical Assistant

I am writing to express my interest in the medical assistant position at your healthcare facility. Although I have no previous experience in medical assisting, I am highly motivated to learn and have recently completed a medical assistant training program.

During my training, I gained experience in taking vital signs, administering medications, and performing medical procedures. I am also proficient in electronic medical records systems and have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

I am excited about the opportunity to start my career in medical assisting and contribute to the success of your healthcare facility. Thank you for considering my application.

Sample Cover Letter 13 for Medical Assistant with Research Experience

I am excited to apply for the medical assistant position at your research facility. With over 2 years of experience in medical research, I have developed excellent skills in data collection and analysis, project management, and organizing clinical trials.

In addition to my research experience, I am also proficient in electronic medical records systems and have strong communication and interpersonal skills. I am confident that my skills and experience make me the ideal candidate for this position.

I am excited about the opportunity to join your team and contribute to the success of your research facility. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sample Cover Letter 14 for Medical Assistant with Specialty Experience

As a highly skilled medical assistant with specialty clinical experience, I was excited to see the opening for a medical assistant at your specialty clinic. With over 4 years of experience in a specialty clinic setting, I have developed excellent skills in patient care, administering specialty medications, and performing specialty procedures.

I am proficient in electronic medical records systems and have strong attention to detail. Additionally, my strong interpersonal skills have enabled me to build strong relationships with patients and colleagues.

I am excited about the opportunity to join your team and contribute to the high-quality patient care you provide. Thank you for considering my application.

Sample Cover Letter 15 for Medical Assistant with Walk-in Clinic Experience

I am writing to express my interest in the Medical Assistant position at your clinic. With over two years of experience working as a Medical Assistant in a busy walk-in clinic, I am confident in my ability to provide exceptional patient care while working in a fast-paced environment.

During my time at the walk-in clinic, I gained valuable experience in taking patient vitals, documenting patient histories, assisting with minor procedures, and administering medications. I also have experience with electronic medical records systems and am proficient in Microsoft Office.

In addition to my technical skills, I possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills. I am comfortable interacting with patients of all ages and backgrounds and can build rapport quickly. I also work well as part of a team and can multitask effectively.

As a highly motivated and detail-oriented individual, I am committed to providing the highest level of care to patients. I believe that my skills and experience make me an excellent candidate for the Medical Assistant position at your clinic.

Here are some job titles to search for when looking for a Medical Assistant Job

• Medical assistant
• Clinical Assistant
• Healthcare Assistant
• Administrative assistant
• Medical office assistant
• Patient care assistant
• Certified medical assistant
• Front office assistant
• Health unit coordinator
• Medical receptionist
• Medical administrative assistant
• Urgent care assistant
• Ambulatory care assistant
• Outpatient clinic assistant

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Medical Support Assistant Cover Letter Sample

A Medical Support Assistant is key administrative personnel in healthcare settings, responsible for managing patient flow, scheduling appointments, record keeping, and facilitating communication between patients and healthcare providers. They ensure smooth operations within medical facilities.

A Medical Support Assistant Cover Letter is a professional document that accompanies a resume when applying for a Medical Support Assistant position. The cover letter should highlight the applicant’s relevant skills, experience, and motivations for the job.

The importance of a Medical Support Assistant Cover Letter lies in its ability to make a first impression. It personalizes the job application, showcases professionalism, and provides a narrative to the applicant’s background, demonstrating how their qualifications align with the job requirements.

The following is a compelling Medical Support Assistant Cover Letter Sample that can boost your chances of being noticed in a competitive healthcare job market. Get inspired to land your ideal position.

Medical Support Assistant Cover Letter Example

Note : The contact details, names, and specific achievements in this cover letter sample are fictional and used for illustrative purposes. Be sure to personalize your cover letter by adding your own name, contact details, work experience, and achievements that best reflect your professional background.

• Medical Support Assistant Resume Example
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Setting the Manner of Appearance of Parties and Witnesses at Hearings

A Rule by the Social Security Administration on 08/26/2024

This document has been published in the Federal Register . Use the PDF linked in the document sidebar for the official electronic format.

• Document Details Published Content - Document Details Agency Social Security Administration Agency/Docket Number Docket No. SSA-2022-0013 CFR 20 CFR 404 20 CFR 416 Document Citation 89 FR 68341 Document Number 2024-18591 Document Type Rule Pages 68341-68364 (24 pages) Publication Date 08/26/2024 RIN 0960-AI71 Published Content - Document Details
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• Document Dates Published Content - Document Dates Effective Date 11/23/2024 Dates Text This final rule is effective November 23, 2024. Published Content - Document Dates

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FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Supplementary information:, how this final rule differs from the nprm, comparison of manners of appearance available at different times, comments summary, comments and responses, support for proposal, recommendations for amendments to the proposal, expanding audio and video appearances further, administrative conference of the united states (acus) recommendations, considerations of equity and supporting underserved communities, reasonable accommodations, consideration of functional disability-related limitations, and claimant preferences, technical, communication, and other considerations, objection period and good cause, unique considerations for online video appearances, good cause for missing the 30-day objection period, in-person appearances, due process, regulatory procedures, executive order (e.o.) 12866, as supplemented by e.o. 13563 and amended by e.o. 14094, anticipated costs/transfers to our program, anticipated administrative cost/savings, anticipated qualitative benefits, congressional review act, executive order 13132 (federalism), regulatory flexibility act, paperwork reduction act, list of subjects, 20 cfr part 404, 20 cfr part 416, part 404—federal old-age, survivors and disability insurance (1950- ), subpart j—determinations, administrative review process, and reopening of determinations and decisions, part 416—supplemental security income for the aged, blind, and disabled, subpart n—determinations, administrative review process, and reopening of determinations and decisions.

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Manner of Appearance at Hearings

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Social Security Administration

• 20 CFR Parts 404 and 416
• [Docket No. SSA-2022-0013]
• RIN 0960-AI71

Social Security Administration.

Final rule.

We are revising our hearing regulations to provide that claimants may appear at hearings in one of four ways: by agency video, by online video, by audio, or in person. Those four manners will all be standard manners of appearance in our hearing process. For online video and audio appearances, claimants may appear for hearings remotely, using private electronic devices that we do not own, operate, or approve. For online video appearances, a claimant may appear for a hearing using approved online video conferencing applications, rather than conferencing options using equipment that we own or approve. Additionally, while our current regulations permit us to schedule claimants to appear by telephone in limited circumstances only, this final rule will allow us to schedule claimants to appear by audio without similar restrictions, if the claimant does not object to appearing in that manner. We expect that this final rule will provide us and claimants with additional flexibility, allowing us to manage our hearing process more efficiently.

This final rule is effective November 23, 2024.

Susan Swansiger, Office of Hearings Operations, Social Security Administration, 250 E Street SW, Washington DC 20024, (703) 605-8500. For information on eligibility or filing for benefits, call our national toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213 or TTY 1-800-325-0778, or visit our internet site, Social Security Online, at https://www.ssa.gov/​ .

On May 19, 2023, we published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM), Setting the Manner of Appearance of Parties and Witnesses at Hearings, [ 1 ] which proposed to update our hearing regulations by changing the term “video teleconference” to “video”; changing “telephone” to “audio”; and permitting “video” and “audio” to be used as standard manners of appearance. We proposed these changes to clarify that claimants may appear for hearings remotely using private electronic devices that we do not own, operate, or approve, and to make clear that a claimant may appear for a hearing using approved online video conferencing applications, rather than only conferencing options using equipment that we own or approve. We are making final the changes that we proposed in the NPRM, with certain modifications. The preamble to the NPRM provides the background for these changes, and we explain our reasons for modifications to the original proposal below. [ 2 ]

When we determine your rights under title II or title XVI of the Social Security Act, we generally follow an administrative review process that consists of the following steps: an initial determination, and, as necessary, a reconsideration, a hearing with an administrative law judge (ALJ), and review by the Appeals Council. [ 3 ] After completing these steps, a claimant may request judicial review of our final decision by filing a civil action in Federal district court.

As noted above, the third step in the administrative review process is a hearing held by an ALJ. [ 4 ] Before the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) national public health emergency, we generally scheduled a claimant to appear at a hearing in one of three ways: by video teleconferencing (VTC), [ 5 ] in person, or by telephone. Further, we scheduled claimants to appear by telephone in certain limited circumstances only, such as when we found an appearance by VTC or in person was not possible, or if other extraordinary circumstances prevented the claimant from appearing by VTC or in person. [ 6 ]

As explained in the NPRM in more detail, in March 2020, we began offering claimants the option to appear at hearings by telephone and later offered claimants the additional option to appear by online video in response to the COVID-19 national public health emergency. [ 7 ] Based on our positive experience with these manners of appearance during the COVID-19 national health emergency and beyond, [ 8 ] and in an effort to incorporate greater flexibility into our rules for claimants, we are adopting audio and online video as standard manners of appearance in our hearing process. [ 9 ]

Under this final rule, there will be four standard manners of appearance: agency video ( i.e., what we previously had defined as VTC), online video, audio, and in person. In the NPRM, we proposed to use the broader term “video” to capture appearances by agency video (where a person attends a hearing at one of our offices using our video equipment) as well as by online video (where a person attends a hearing from a private location using private equipment). As we explain in greater ( print page 68342) detail below, this final rule distinguishes between agency video and online video appearances.

We are also revising our regulations regarding scheduling the manner of appearance for individuals who appear before the Appeals Council for oral argument to keep them aligned with the ALJ hearing process. Similar to the changes above, we are making agency video, online video, audio, and in person standard manners of appearance for oral arguments before the Appeals Council.

In addition, as proposed in the NPRM, we added language to 20 CFR 404.944 and 416.1444 to clarify that an ALJ may stop a hearing temporarily and continue it at a later date if the ALJ finds that one or more variables outside of our control materially affected a hearing.

Claimants may object to appearing by audio or agency video, and a claimant must agree to appear by online video before we will schedule that manner of appearance. If a claimant objects to audio and agency video and does not agree to online video, we will schedule that claimant to appear at a hearing in person. However, in certain limited circumstances, we will mandate an audio appearance notwithstanding a claimant's objection to appearing in that manner. [ 10 ] If a claimant submits an untimely objection to appearing by audio or agency video, or if the claimant submits an untimely agreement to appear by online video, we will evaluate whether good cause exists for the late submission under the standards in sections 404.911 and 416.1411. [ 11 ]

In a number of places, this final rule differs from our proposed rule. We list the changes below and further explain the substantive changes in the section titled “Comments and Responses.”

• We modified §§ 404.929 and 416.1429 to make clear that there are two ways to appear by “video”: “agency video” and “online video.” In the NPRM, we used the term “video” to refer to both types of video appearances. Commenters, however, expressed concerns about potential confusion stemming from the general term “video.” By identifying and defining these two types of video in the regulations, we anticipate alleviating these concerns and confusion. We defined “agency video” as “video, with audio functionality, using our equipment in one of our offices.”  [ 12 ] We defined “online video” as “video, with audio functionality, using a personal electronic device in a private location the claimant chooses.”
• We made several revisions to §§ 404.936 and 416.1436. First, in paragraph (a), we clarified that we set the manner(s) of appearance for all hearings, and we set the place of a hearing only when we schedule a claimant to appear in person or by agency video. Thus, we do not set the place of the hearing when we schedule the claimant to appear by online video or audio. Second, in paragraphs (b), (c), and (d), we removed the general term “video” and instead used the more specific terms “online video” and “agency video,” as appropriate. Third, in paragraph (c), we explained that we will only schedule a claimant to appear by online video if they agree to appear in that manner. This agreement requirement is a change from the NPRM, where we proposed to give claimants an opportunity to object to appearing by online video. Fourth, we relocated some information from paragraph (c) to paragraph (d) to clarify that in limited circumstances only, we will schedule an audio appearance notwithstanding a claimant's objection to an audio appearance. Fifth, we explained that for audio appearances under paragraph (d), we will call the individual using the individual's telephone number(s). Sixth, in paragraph (e), we explained that prior to scheduling a claimant's hearing, we will notify them that we may schedule them to appear by online video if they agree to appear in that manner. To agree to appear by online video, a claimant must notify us of their agreement in writing within 30 days of the date they receive that notice. If a claimant notifies us after the 30-day deadline, we will extend the time period if they show good cause for missing the deadline. Paragraph (e) also explains that a claimant may withdraw their agreement to appear by online video at any time before the start of the hearing, which should provide additional flexibility for claimants.
• In §§ 404.937 and 416.1437, we added the option for claimants to agree to appear by online video (instead of allowing audio as the only option) when the Hearing Office Chief ALJ determines that the claimant or other individual poses a reasonable threat to the safety of our employees or other participants in the hearing, or we have banned the claimant from any of our facilities.
• In §§ 404.938 and 416.1438, we explained in paragraph (b)(5) that the notice of hearing will tell the claimant the time and manner of appearance and, for in person and agency video appearances, the place of the hearing.
• In §§ 404.944 and 416.1444, we defined the term “materially affects” to mean prevents the hearing from proceeding.
• In §§ 404.950 and 416.1450, we made two revisions. First, in paragraph (a), we explained that a party to the hearing or their designated representative may appear before an ALJ in the manner described in §§ 404.936 and 416.1436. Second, in paragraph (e), we corrected cross references by replacing §§ 404.936(c)(4) and 416.1436(c)(4) with §§ 404.936(c)(2) and 416.1436(c)(2).
• In §§ 404.976 and 416.1476, we distinguished between “agency video” and “online video.”
• We made other minor conforming changes throughout the final rule.

Table 1 below compares the manner of appearance options that were available before the COVID-19 national public health emergency, those that were available during the COVID-19 national public health emergency to the effective date of this final rule, and those that will be available under this final rule when it becomes effective. It also notes whether a claimant may object to a manner of appearance or must consent to a manner of appearance. ( print page 68343)

Table 1—Comparison of Manners of Appearance Available at Different Times

Manner of appearance Available before the COVID-19 national public health emergency Available during the COVID-19 national public health emergency to the effective date of the final rule Available when our final rule becomes effective In-person Yes (claimant cannot object) Postponed from March 2020 through March 2022, when we began incrementally reopening our hearing offices to the public. (claimant cannot object) Yes (claimant cannot object). Agency Video (formerly “VTC”) Yes (claimant can object) Postponed from March 2020 through March 2022, when we began incrementally reopening our hearing offices to the public. (claimant can object) Yes (claimant can object). Online video No Available as of December 2020 (claimant must agree before we schedule that manner of appearance) Yes (claimant must agree before we will schedule). Audio (formerly “telephone”) Yes, but only in very limited circumstances. (claimant cannot object when required) Available as of March 2020 (claimant must agree before we schedule that manner of appearance, but we can require a claimant to appear by telephone in very limited circumstances) Yes (claimant can object, unless we require the claimant to appear by audio, (called via telephone number) in very limited circumstances).

Table 2—Summary of Manners of Appearance and Potential Claimant Actions Under This Final Rule

Manner of appearance Can a claimant object to this manner of appearance? Does a claimant need to agree to this manner before we schedule it? Audio Yes, though we may still require the claimant to appear by audio in very limited circumstances No, but claimants may object to this manner of appearance. Online Video Not Applicable. We will not schedule an online video appearance unless a claimant tells us they agree to appear in that manner Yes. Agency Video Yes No, but claimants may object to this manner of appearance. In-Person No No.

We received 44 public comments on our NPRM during the comment period. Of the total comments, 42 are available for public viewing at https://www.regulations.gov/​docket/​SSA-2022-0013 . We excluded a comment that was an exact duplicate submitted by the same commenter, and we excluded a comment submitted by one of our employees posted in an official capacity. The publicly available comments were from:

• Individual citizens;
• Advocacy groups comprising claimant representatives;
• Other advocacy groups;
• Organizations and firms that represent claimants; and
• Other organizations with an interest in our proceedings.

We carefully considered the public comments we received, and we responded to them below.

Comment: A majority of commenters supported our proposal to update our hearing regulations to permit “video” and “audio” as standard manners of appearance. Commenters said permanently adopting remote appearances as standard manners of appearance will result in greater flexibility for claimants and witnesses. They stated that both video and audio appearances can be advantageous for claimants who have limited transportation options, live far from hearing offices, or have circumstances like limited mobility or severe anxiety. One commenter expressed that our proposal may reduce cost, stress, and scheduling conflicts experienced by claimants and representatives.

In addition, many commenters supported multiple manners of appearance being available to claimants, and supported the NPRM because it maintains the option of in-person appearances and permits objection to appearing by other means. Other commenters expressed that preserving the option of in-person appearances will continue to serve those who are most comfortable with this method, for reasons like unreliable access to technology or private, quiet spaces.

Several commenters also agreed that audio and video appearances will allow us to balance hearings across offices to help reduce administrative delays. Commenters said that the ability to schedule hearings remotely by audio or online video without requiring “extreme circumstances” will reduce delays and allow for more hearings to be held in a timely manner. One commenter stated they have experienced numerous occasions where claimants failed to make an in-person appearance due to unexpected traffic, having their transportation canceled at the last minute and being unable to find alternate transportation, having the physical inability to sit in the car long enough to travel to the hearing office, having a panic attack from being around others due to a mental impairment, or being unable to be around others due to a compromised immune system.

Response: We acknowledge the general support received from many commenters.

Comment: Several commenters expressed that we should expand the use of video and audio beyond what we proposed. A commenter stated that “unrestricted use” of video and audio should be allowed during any Social Security proceeding. Commenters provided examples of when expanded use of video should be allowed, including all stages of the disability determination process in which claimants have the opportunity to appear ( e.g., age 18 redeterminations and benefits termination following a continuing disability review). Other commenters expressed that we need to “eliminate barriers to the public” and always make remote hearings available, and that “safety and convenience mandate” the option of a video appearance for any official Social Security matter requiring face to face communication, including communication with any Social Security field office or Disability Determination Services (DDS) office.

Response: We acknowledge and appreciate the desire for greater ( print page 68344) flexibility in all communications with us. While we may consider additional options in the future, for this final rule, we continue to focus on manners of appearance at ALJ hearings and before the Appeals Council.

Comment: One commenter suggested eliminating in-person appearances to mitigate climate change and practice fiscal responsibility. The commenter said that a cost-benefit analysis would show the costs of in-person appearances are “enormous,” and the benefits are minimal. The commenter also expressed that offering in-person appearances requires the agency to buy and maintain office space throughout the country and requires ALJs, hearing office staff, claimants, representatives, and hearing reporters to travel to hearing offices. According to the commenter, maintaining a large office presence and requiring hearing participants to travel generates carbon emissions and other pollution, and costs taxpayer money. In addition, the commenter said that eliminating in-person appearances would provide the agency with an advantage in recruiting and retaining personnel, and balancing workloads, by removing the need for personnel to be tied to a particular geographic location. Further, the commenter expressed that the agency's experience over the past three years shows the number of claimants who want to appear in-person is “vanishingly small.” According to the commenter, in the relatively rare instances in which claimants have objected to telephone and video appearances, most of these objections have been “raised at the eleventh hour for the apparent strategic advantage of postponing hearings without showing good cause.” The commenter expressed that for the small number of claimants who want to be seen as well as heard, the availability of video appearances satisfies that need.

Response: We appreciate the commenter's preference for audio and video appearances. This final rule, however, does not eliminate in-person appearances because some claimants value appearing in person for various reasons. For example, some commenters expressed that in-person appearances allow claimants to have meaningful interaction with decision-makers and allow decision-makers to fully observe a claimant's condition. While our experiences demonstrate that audio and video appearances also allow meaningful interaction and provide a sufficient basis for an ALJ to reach a policy compliant decision, it is important to retain in-person appearances at this time to accommodate those claimants who would object to or would have difficulty appearing by the other manners of appearance this final rule makes available. We also understand that some claimants feel more comfortable appearing in person. Depending on the facts of the case, we may find it necessary to schedule an appearance in person. [ 13 ]

Comment: A commenter said if the agency is to retain in-person appearances and provide an order of preference, audio appearances should be first, video appearances should be second, and in-person appearances should be last. The commenter expressed that the current phrasing of §§ 404.936(c)(2) and 416.1436(c)(2) appears to place video and in-person appearances in the highest order of preference, with audio appearances as a last resort. According to the commenter, this seems contrary to our explanation at the beginning of the NPRM, which suggests we wish to eliminate a showing of extraordinary circumstances as a requirement for audio hearings. The commenter said experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic have shown that the vast majority of claimants want to appear by audio, and audio appearances are also the simplest type to schedule, coordinate, and conduct. In addition, the commenter said that video appearances have been reasonably successful, but they involve greater technological complexity than audio appearances and require high internet bandwidth, and interruptions to hearings occur because deficiencies in these areas remain common. According to the commenter, if our rule specifies an order of preference, it should state that we will schedule a video appearance only if a claimant timely objects to an audio appearance, and an in-person appearance (if offered at all) will be scheduled only if the claimant timely objects to both audio and video. The commenter suggested that, alternatively, the rule could be written permissively to provide broad flexibility to hearing offices, without any particular hierarchy specified or implied among the options for manner of appearance. That is, the rule could simply state that the agency may schedule an audio or video appearance in any case in which the claimant does not timely opt out, without specifying an order of preference or requiring extraordinary circumstances for any manner of appearance.

Response: We did not propose to establish any hierarchy for setting the manner of appearance, and we have made revisions to this final rule to clarify that. This final rule neither prioritizes a certain manner of appearance nor provides a hierarchy of scheduling preference. As the comments show, there is support for all manners of appearance: audio, both versions of video, and in person. When two or more manners are available to schedule, [ 14 ] we will consider efficiency and the facts of a particular case when determining a claimant's manner of appearance. In order to prevent any implication of an order of preference, under this final rule, we reorganized some of the regulatory text mentioned by the commenter to clarify that we may schedule an audio appearance in certain limited circumstances notwithstanding a claimant's objection to an audio appearance, and that our regulations do not otherwise set a priority of scheduling. [ 15 ] This flexibility will allow us to schedule more timely hearings for claimants.

Additionally, some commenters appear to have used the terms “opt out” and “object to” interchangeably in discussing our proposed rule. However, both our proposed rule and this final rule give claimants an opportunity to object to certain manners of appearance, not opt out of them. Furthermore, our current rules allow claimants to object to appearing by VTC, not opt out. An opt out process would allow a claimant to unilaterally eliminate a manner of appearance, whereas an objection process allows a claimant to tell us that they do not want to appear in a certain manner. Under this final rule, when a claimant objects to appearing by audio or agency video, there are limited circumstances when, despite the objection, we may still schedule that manner of appearance, such as when we have banned a claimant from our facilities to ensure the safety of the public and our employees, or when we cannot schedule a claimant to appear by agency video or by online video and extraordinary circumstances prevent them from appearing in person. [ 16 ]

Comment: One commenter suggested that we should automatically schedule hearings with audio as the default method, and if there is a “legitimate and valid reason” why we should conduct a hearing in another manner (video or in person), the claimant should specifically request it, and all parties should consent. Similarly, a commenter recommended that we confirm directly with the claimant in writing their wish for an in-person appearance rather than make an in-person appearance the default format. The commenter asserted that this approach would “further support efficiency and overall fairness of the hearing process.” A commenter expressed that representatives should not be required to “submit so much supplemental documentation the minute a claim is at the hearing level or even before that” to ensure the hearing gets scheduled by audio. The commenter stated hearing offices currently create unnecessary barriers for claimants and their representatives to ensure a hearing is scheduled by phone. The commenter expressed there are substantial delays and hurdles to overcome to correct an inadvertently scheduled in-person appearance.

Response: We understand the commenters' preference for audio appearances. However, we did not adopt the recommendation to make audio the default manner of appearance, nor did we adopt the recommendation to require claimants to confirm a preference for an in-person appearance. The comments we received in response to our proposed rule show that different claimants benefit from and prefer different manners of appearance for different reasons. Thus, to account for those different needs and preferences, we did not select any particular manner of appearance to be the default manner. The scheduling provisions in this final rule provide flexibility for claimants and us.

We will, however, (1) implement a new publication and notice explaining the manners of appearance: Notice of Ways to Attend a Hearing (Form HA-L54); (2) revise an existing form for objecting to appearing by agency video or by audio: Objection to Appearing by Video Teleconferencing (Form HA-55); and (3) implement a new form providing the ability to agree to appear by online video: Agreement to Appearing by Online Video (Form HA-56).

The new notice, Notice of Ways to Attend a Hearing (Form HA-L54), will explain in detail how an appearance by audio, by agency video, by online video, and in person would work. It will also explain how and when to object to an appearance by audio or agency video and agree to an appearance by online video. We are making this notice separate from our Request for Hearing Acknowledgement Letter (Form HA-L2) to ensure that the manner of appearance information stands out to claimants and does not get lost among the other information in the HA-L2.

The revised objection form, Objection to Appearing by Video Teleconferencing (Form HA-55), will allow claimants to object to appearing by audio, by agency video, or both. We explain on the form that claimants only need to complete the form if they object to appearing by audio or agency video. The objection form also summarizes the appearance options again so that claimants can make an informed decision even if they do not read the new notice.

The new online video agreement form, Agreement to Appearing by Online Video, (Form HA-56) will allow claimants to agree to appearing by online video. It will explain that claimants only need to complete the form if they agree to appearing in that manner. We made Form HA-56 separate from Form HA-55 to clearly distinguish an agreement to appear by online video from an objection to appear by audio or agency video. We anticipate that these new communications and information collection requests will enhance claimant modality options, streamline the scheduling process, and minimize scheduling errors.

Additionally, this final rule does not require a claimant, or representative, to submit any supplemental documentation before, or as soon as, a claim reaches the hearing level. Rather, a claimant, or representative, has a 30-day period to object or agree to a manner of appearance.

Comment: Some commenters expressed concerns that we proposed to use the broader term “video” to reference two different manners of appearance: 1. online video through an application like Microsoft Teams (Teams) and 2. more traditional VTC. Commenters said that our regulations should use different terminology to distinguish between the two because they have meaningful differences.

One commenter stated that providing the option of accepting or rejecting a “video” appearance without specifying whether it is by VTC or online video is misleading to the claimant. The commenter noted that there are distinctions between the two types. For example, an online video appearance does not necessarily require any travel by the claimant, whereas a VTC appearance does require some travel. Another commenter said that VTC appearances are “in person” from the perspective of the claimant because the claimant must usually travel to one of our offices along with a representative, when applicable, and the judge participates by “video.” The commenter also said that too often the VTC locations are more difficult in terms of travel, expense, and the stress of security or long lines for entrance. According to the commenter, a video appearance using an online video “app” such as Teams is “entirely different” for both the claimant and representative because online video appearances allow participants to avoid travel—reducing cost, stress, and conflicts. One commenter stated they routinely object to VTC appearances but have “no problem” with online video appearances. The commenter said claimants usually prefer video to in-person appearances because they can appear from home, yet still see the ALJ and be seen clearly, with very few technological problems.

Another commenter expressed not being comfortable advising claimants to accept a video option if that option includes VTC. The commenter recommended more precise wording so claimants can make informed decisions about their manner of appearance for a hearing. One commenter recommended making it clear and easy for claimants to object separately to audio, video, and VTC appearances because limiting an objection to video appearances alone would be insufficient.

Response: We generally agree with these recommendations. As we explained in the NPRM, we originally intended to use the general term “video” because it allowed for greater flexibility. We planned to further explain the two video manners of appearance in our subregulatory policies. However, because there are significant differences between the two, we will distinguish them in the regulatory text. Therefore, this final rule distinguishes agency video from online video. “Agency video” means video, with audio functionality, using our equipment in one of our offices. In other words, agency video means a claimant travels to one of our offices for a hearing and attends the hearing using our video equipment. “Online video” means video, with audio functionality, using a personal electronic device in a private location the claimant chooses. In other words, online video means a claimant attends a hearing from a private location of the claimant's choice using the claimant's own smartphone, tablet, or computer and internet connection. We ( print page 68346) will also highlight this distinction in our subregulatory policies; new notice, new publication, and new agreement form; and revised objection form related to this final rule.

Comment: One commenter expressed the opinion that VTC appearances are “inferior” to both in-person and online video appearances, and with the addition of online video appearances, they should be obsolete. The commenter said that VTC appearances are often held in a “small, cramped conference room” at a hearing or field office, which is often not sound-proofed. According to the commenter, in some hearing offices, the video equipment is located on the wall behind the desks where the representative and claimant sit, making it difficult for both the claimant and representative to be seen, to see the ALJ, and to review the file and notes at the same time. The commenter also stated that VTC appearances require additional SSA staff, as they require a hearing monitor with the ALJ, as well as a monitor or other staff member with the claimant to ensure the equipment is working. The commenter noted that VTC appearances require travel to the hearing office and do not have the same effect as in-person appearances because the video is often of lower quality and does not allow the ALJ to see the claimant in detail. They also expressed that VTC appearances are inferior to online video appearances because with online video, each party can be in a position most comfortable to them and adjust the viewing angle of the camera so that they can be seen well. For VTC appearances, the representative and claimant are limited to the design of the room in which the hearing is held and cannot adjust the camera.

The commenter noted that we previously introduced VTC appearances to allow us to schedule hearings quicker and to transfer workloads among offices to lighten the load at certain hearing offices. According to the commenter, because the same can be provided by both telephone (audio) and online video appearances, the need for VTC appearances becomes obsolete. The commenter said the proposed regulations did not provide any explanation as to why VTC appearances would remain necessary once audio and online video are offered as standard manners of appearance.

Response: This final rule provides for an appearance by agency video to enhance the overall flexibility in our hearing process. We agree that many claimants are likely to prefer to appear by online video instead of by agency video. Nonetheless, we expect there will be some claimants who cannot appear by online video or do not want to appear by online video, but who do not object to appearing by agency video. [ 17 ] Agency video helps ensure that all claimants are afforded the same options for virtual hearings, regardless of their ability to pay for or otherwise obtain a suitable device or internet connection on their own. It also allows us to retain the ability to transfer workloads to facilitate earlier scheduling when possible. Our new notice, new publication, new agreement form, and revised objection form related to this final rule will clearly explain the differences between the two video manners of appearance. Finally, we disagree that VTC appearances have inferior audio and video quality. [ 18 ]

Comment: The Office of the Chair of ACUS repeated in their comments recommendations they previously issued related to audio and online hearings at Federal agencies. They said they have long encouraged agencies, particularly those with high-volume caseloads, to consider “whether the use of VTC [hearings] would be beneficial as a way to improve efficiency and/or reduce costs while also preserving the fairness and participant satisfaction of proceedings.” They noted that they have set forth best practices and practical guidelines for conducting traditional VTC hearings and, more recently, “virtual hearings” in which participants appear remotely from a location of their choosing using internet-based videoconferencing software.

According to ACUS, our proposed rules addressed several of their recommended guidelines for conducting virtual hearings, such as the circumstances in which an individual's virtual participation may be inappropriate; the process by which claimants can object to participating virtually; and the technological requirements for virtual hearings. They also said that our plan to permit claimants to appear virtually by online video in a hearing office with agency-supplied electronic devices and internet connection (instead of only allowing this option for claimants using personal or borrowed devices in private locations) helps ensure that all claimants are afforded the same options for virtual hearings, regardless of their ability to pay for or otherwise obtain a suitable device or internet connection on their own.

In addition, ACUS recommended that we consider addressing whether to make available or require attendance at “a general training session or pre-hearing conference to discuss technological requirements, procedural rules, and standards of conduct for virtual hearings.” According to ACUS, such proactive measures may help to reduce or eliminate delays before or during hearings caused by participants' unfamiliarity with the technology or videoconferencing software and prevent disruptions caused by a lack of understanding of applicable procedural rules or behavioral standards for virtual hearings.

Further, ACUS referred to our proposed revisions to 20 CFR 404.944 and 416.1444 , which clarified that an ALJ could stop a hearing temporarily and continue it at a later date if they found that one or more variables outside of the agency's control materially affected a hearing. They expressed that we may want to explain when a hearing is “materially affected” and provide examples. ACUS recommended that we clarify the actions that the ALJ or hearing office staff will take to attempt to remedy any technical problems before or after stopping the hearing when variables outside the agency's control materially affect the hearing.

ACUS also suggested that, in our pre-hearing notices, we include information about the possible manners of appearance; explain the claimant's ability to object to virtual hearings; and explain what the claimant would need to appear in each manner. They advised we should include any other information that would help claimants make informed decisions about their preferred manner of appearance, and that we should ensure this information stays up to date.

In addition, ACUS recommended that we continue to survey claimants who appear at virtual hearings to gauge their satisfaction with the process, and that we should “maintain open lines of communication with representatives in order to receive [their] feedback about the use of virtual hearing.” They suggested tracking and publishing disposition data for different hearing ( print page 68347) modalities to measure how virtual hearings compare to in-person hearings in terms of procedural fairness and substantive outcomes.

Finally, ACUS stated that virtual hearings should be utilized and conducted in a manner that promotes the principles of fairness, efficiency, and participant satisfaction, which form the cornerstones of adjudicative legitimacy. Accordingly, when revising regulations and issuing subregulatory guidance, ACUS said we should ensure that virtual hearings provide a claimant experience that meets or exceeds the in-person hearing experience.

Response: Consistent with ACUS's recommendation, this final rule recognizes that it may not be appropriate in every circumstance for an individual to appear at a hearing virtually. Thus, claimants will have an opportunity to object to appearing by agency video or audio, and we will not schedule an online video appearance unless the claimant agrees to appear in that manner. Additionally, consistent with ACUS's recommendation, this final rule sets forth the process by which claimants can object to appearing by agency video or audio, and it explains how a claimant can tell us that they agree to appear by online video. Further, our new publication, which will explain the possible manners of appearance, will reflect ACUS's recommendation to explain the technological requirements for virtual hearings.

We also adopted ACUS's suggestion that we explain when audio quality or video quality “materially affects” a hearing under 20 CFR 404.944 and 416.1444 . Under this final rule, “materially affects” means it prevents the hearing from proceeding. Examples include termination of the audio or video connection or poor audio or video quality that prevents the efficient administration of the hearing. If an ALJ determines that audio or video quality “materially affects” the hearing, the ALJ will stop the hearing and continue it at a later date. We will schedule the continued hearing no earlier than 20 days after the stoppage unless the claimant waives in writing the advanced hearing notice requirement. [ 19 ] While we will try to reschedule the hearing as quickly as possible, the time to reschedule will depend on multiple factors, including representative, expert witness and ALJ availability, as well as available hearing slots. If necessary, we may schedule the claimant to appear by another available manner of appearance.

We also plan to post a publicly available video explaining the technical requirements of online video and audio appearances. However, we did not adopt the recommendation to have a prehearing conference for the purpose of discussing technological requirements, procedural rules, and standards of conduct for online video and audio hearings, because doing so would be overly burdensome, given the hundreds of thousands of hearings we schedule per year. The public informational video, along with our new notice, new publication, new agreement form, and revised objection form, will appropriately explain the manners of appearance and their requirements. The notice of hearing will include contact information for use if technical difficulties arise during an audio or online video hearing. In terms of feedback from participants, we conducted feedback surveys for our online video appearances during the COVID-19 national public health emergency. Our survey data at that time showed that 83 percent of claimants were satisfied with their online video hearing. [ 20 ] When implementing this final rule, we plan to investigate further opportunities to gather feedback from claimants on their experience with the various manners of appearance.

Regarding communications with representatives, we regularly meet with representative organizations, including the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (NOSSCR) and the National Association of Disability Representatives (NADR). We also have quarterly roundtable discussions with the advocacy community. During our meetings with these organizations, we solicit and receive feedback from representatives about our use of remote appearances.

As for the recommendation for a quality assurance system that tracks and publishes disposition data for each manner of appearance, we are working to develop this type of data, though it is not available at this time due to systems reporting limitations. We do, however, have a number of quality assurance measures, including routine quality reviews of decisions, in place.

Comment: Some commenters asked us to consider how the proposed rule will impact underserved communities. Commenters cited E.O. 13985 , Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government, which prioritizes advancing equity throughout the Federal Government. The E.O. addresses removing barriers and increasing access to Federal programs by pursuing a comprehensive approach to advancing equity for people of color and others who have been historically underserved, marginalized, and adversely affected by persistent poverty and inequality. A commenter suggested that we implement changes to the rules regarding manners of appearance “through the lens of advancing equity and removing barriers to access.”

Another commenter said “the harm [of defaulting to audio or video] that could come to claimants is not merely conjectural. Many lower income claimants do not have sufficiently regular access to technology to make audio and video hearings convenient.” Several commenters cited research about limited broadband internet access in the United States and stated that people most impacted by the technological divide are those who have “less education and lower incomes; communities of color, such as Black and Latino; older adults; rural residents (and most acutely in Native communities); the physically disabled; the LGBTQ community; and those falling in the intersections of these groups.”

Response: As our equity plan indicates, [ 21 ] equity is a highly important priority for SSA. We strive to support underserved communities, including those identified by the commenters. To that end, we anticipate that appearances by audio and video will actually help underserved communities because those manners of appearance will often allow claimants the flexibility to attend their hearings more easily. For example, as other commenters have pointed out, both online video and audio appearances can be advantageous for claimants who have limited transportation options, who live far from hearing offices, or who have circumstances like limited mobility or severe anxiety. Additionally, as noted above, this final rule does not eliminate in-person appearances or agency video (for those who do not have equipment necessary for online video) or prioritize audio or video appearances. It merely provides a variety of ways for claimants to appear at their hearings. Moreover, under this final rule, we will not schedule a claimant to appear by online video unless the claimant agrees to appear in that manner.

Comment: One commenter said claimants should always determine the manner of appearance for their hearing. According to the commenter, some claimants are “terrified” to appear in the “court-like atmosphere” of an in-person hearing, and others have physical, transportation, or financial difficulties associated with traveling to the hearing sites. Other commenters said we should provide a form that allows claimants to select their preferred manner of appearance.

Response: We did not adopt these recommendations because doing so would impede our ability to schedule timely hearings. First, we anticipate that some claimants would not provide us their preferred manner of appearance in a timely manner. Our experience over many years has been that it is often difficult to receive responses from some claimants when we ask them to contact us. Second, allowing claimants to select their preferred manner of appearance is not administratively feasible because it would significantly impede our ability to timely process the hundreds of thousands of hearings we schedule per year. When developing this final rule, we carefully balanced the two guiding principles that undergird our hearing process: that it be fair and that it works efficiently. [ 22 ] This final rule is fair because it allows claimants to have input on their manner of appearance. At the same time, this final rule helps our hearing process to work efficiently by giving us additional scheduling flexibility, which will allow us to use our available resources to schedule more timely hearings.

Comment: Several commenters said we should ask claimants to identify their hearing format preferences at the earliest stage possible and suggested this could be done on the hearing request form ( e.g., SSA HA-501). The commenters suggested this may help claimants who have difficulty corresponding by mail and may also allow people to provide feedback when they are in our field offices, where they may have assistance of field office staff who can answer questions, or when they may have help from community assisters ( e.g., social workers) who may be assisting them with an appeal but may not be present when they receive the hearing election notice. Further, some commenters said we should provide more than one opportunity to select the preferred hearing format.

Response: We did not adopt these recommendations because they would require an overhaul of our existing operational processes and systems of such magnitude that it would delay our ability to implement the flexibilities in this final rule for several years. For example, adopting these recommendations would require us to overhaul our iAppeals online internet service, which allows claimants to electronically file a reconsideration or hearing request. [ 23 ] In addition, we anticipate that the process set forth in this final rule will allow claimants sufficient opportunity to indicate whether they agree to appear by online video and whether they object to appearing by audio or agency video. We will provide a separate notice explaining the manners of appearance; a revised form for claimants to let us know whether they object to appearing by audio, agency video, or both; and a new form for claimants to let us know whether they agree to appear by online video. If a claimant misses the 30-day deadline to agree to appear by online video or to object to appearing by audio, agency video, or both, they have the opportunity to show us that they had good cause for missing the deadline. [ 24 ] In summary, our new notice, new agreement form, revised objection form, and the good cause provisions in this final rule will provide claimants with a reasonable opportunity to share their manner of appearance preferences with us.

Comment: One commenter said that some claimants will not be able to meaningfully participate when they appear at a hearing by video or audio, which will impede our ability to make accurate disability determinations and violate section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (section 504). The commenter noted that Federal agencies have an affirmative duty to make “reasonable modifications for qualified individuals.” According to the commenter, some individuals require an in-person appearance to meaningfully participate. Several other commenters provided examples of individuals who may require an in-person appearance to meaningfully participate. Examples provided include claimants: with hearing or visual impairments; requiring an interpreter; who need to frequently shift between sitting and standing due to pain; who speak softly or have speech impairments; with auditory or visual hallucinations; with seizure disorders; who distrust technology or fear being recorded; with intellectual disabilities; with developmental disorders; and who may be less familiar with VTC.

In addition, commenters said the difficulties faced by persons with disabilities may be exacerbated if they have limited English proficiency. They expressed that interpreter services do not adequately address the challenges faced by individuals with limited English proficiency who are deaf or hard of hearing. The commenters indicated that such individuals must be allowed to appear in a manner that accommodates their disabilities and that keeping the right to appear in person is required for procedural fairness.

Response: We are not eliminating the in-person manner of appearance. Under this final rule, a claimant may object to appearing by agency video and audio and may decide not to agree to appear by online video. In that circumstance, barring an exceptional circumstance, we would schedule the claimant to appear in person. [ 25 ] Additionally, this final rule does not preclude an individual from requesting an accommodation. Instead, this final rule adds flexibility to our hearing process, and we expect that it will make it easier for many claimants to appear at their hearings. Even when a claimant does not object to appearing by agency video or audio, we will not default to scheduling one of those manners of appearance. Rather, under 20 CFR 404.936(c)(1)(ii) and 416.1436(c)(1)(ii) of this final rule, we will consider which manner would be the most efficient and any facts that provide good reason for a specific manner of appearance.

Furthermore, this final rule does not affect or modify our existing responsibilities under section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, or the procedures we follow in considering requests for reasonable accommodations under that statute. Separate and distinct from this final rule, we will continue to use our established procedures for handling section 504 accommodation requests. [ 26 ] We are not revising our obligations under section 504 or our ( print page 68349) reasonable accommodation process as part of this final rule.

Comment: One commenter said that the proposed regulatory language does not provide guidance on what may be considered a “good reason” for scheduling a hearing in person, by video, or by audio. The commenter recommended that we incorporate into our regulations the language referencing, at a minimum, the standards in 20 CFR 404.911 and 416.1411 to ensure that an individual's physical, mental, educational, or linguistic limitations (including lack of facility with the English language) are considered when we choose the appropriate manner for an ALJ hearing. The commenter referred to section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and noted that section 504 requires Federal agencies to ensure that qualified individuals with disabilities are not, solely by reason of their disabilities, excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination under the programs and activities they conduct. The commenter said there is a “pronounced lack of emphasis on [our] legal obligation to ensure equal access to a transparent and fair adjudicative process for all individuals with disabilities, including those who may require access to in-person hearings for disability related reasons.” According to the commenter, clear regulatory instructions obligating our staff and ALJs to consider claimants' functional limitations as they pertain to the claimants' ability to effectively communicate and participate in the hearing process should be part of the evaluation of “good reasons” for scheduling a hearing in any manner. The commenter expressed that individuals with a wide range of disabilities, and those in the deaf and hard of hearing community specifically, face “failed communication” when dealing with our field offices and hearing offices, which may not provide methods of effective communication to deaf and hard of hearing individuals. The commenter states that such individuals will be adversely affected if they are unable to access onsite American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation when presenting testimony and interacting with adjudicators or witnesses.

Further, the commenter expressed that our staff must be able to recognize the need for an effective communication assessment. The commenter said that, if any technology is used for interpreting during video or audio hearings, staff must be able to use the required equipment and have sufficient understanding of different modes of communication to recognize and remedy communication failures. The commenter expressed that, without these items addressed, a video or audio hearing will not provide effective communication and equal access to the administrative process.

Another commenter said hearing notices should include clear guidelines on the use of effective assistive technology during video or audio hearings, beyond the explanation that one needs “a desktop computer, laptop computer, tablet or phone with a camera, microphone, and speakers.” The commenter said, to ensure effective communication for deaf and hard of hearing claimants, remote technology should offer real-time, full motion synchronized video and audio. The commenter further stated that the technology should operate over dedicated lines or wireless networks offering high-speed, wide-bandwidth video connection that delivers high-quality video images that do not produce lags, choppy, blurry, or grainy images, or irregular pauses in communication, and a clear, audible transmission of voices to support listening to and lipreading the hearing participants by the deaf or hard of hearing claimant.

Response: We understand the commenters' concerns, and we expect that, overall, the audio and video manners of appearance will make it easier for claimants, especially those with functional limitations, to appear at their hearings. We did not adopt the recommendation to provide guidance on what constitutes a “good reason” for scheduling a certain manner of appearance because the broad “good reason” language in this final rule accounts for a wide latitude of possible considerations. These considerations may include, for example, the physical, mental, educational, or linguistic limitations contemplated in 20 CFR 404.911 and 416.1411 . As other commenters suggested, we will provide more details on the requirements for each manner of appearance in our subregulatory policies, new notice and publication, and new and revised forms related to this final rule. Claimants may state their reasons for objecting or agreeing to a manner of appearance in the comment sections of our forms or in separate communications, including by telephone or writing. Additionally, if there are technical difficulties during a hearing, the ALJ may stop the hearing and continue it at a later date. [ 27 ] When rescheduling the continued hearing, we will reconsider which manner of appearance to schedule using the factors in 20 CFR 404.936(c)(1) and 416.1436(c)(1) .

Furthermore, as discussed above, this final rule does not affect or modify our existing responsibilities under section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 or the procedures we follow in considering requests for reasonable accommodations. Separate and distinct from this final rule, we will continue to follow our long-standing procedures for handling section 504 accommodation requests when an individual requests an accommodation under this law. We are not revising our obligations under section 504 or our reasonable accommodation process as part of this final rule.

Comment: One commenter stated that the provision of full and fair hearings for persons with disabilities requires that we have a public-facing process for determining the need for reasonable accommodations and providing them at hearings. According to the commenter, it may be impossible to provide disability access effectively, including ASL and other language access, in many of the current VTC hearing sites, and for that reason, possible reasonable accommodations must include providing an in-person hearing, and this reasonable accommodation must be available even where the claimant has not timely opted out of a video or audio hearing.

The commenter cited the Hearings, Appeals, and Litigation Law Manual (HALLEX) I-2-0-8 and asserted that it does not describe who is responsible for receiving and processing accommodation requests for hearings or who is responsible for making sure accommodations are provided at the various types of hearing sites and how long that process would take. The commenter stated that the reasonable accommodation information is “buried among the hundreds of web pages on the SSA's website” and is not connected to the Hearings and Appeals portal. The commenter also stated that the SSA Hearing Agreement Form and other written information related to our hearing and appeals process do not provide information on how to request a reasonable accommodation. The commenter asserted that it is not clear how an individual pursuing an administrative appeal would be aware of the process to request a reasonable accommodation, or even know whether they would need an accommodation during the hearing process. According to the commenter, individuals needing “nonstandard” accommodations would require a significant amount of lead time to make and document their ( print page 68350) accommodation requests. The commenter expressed that it is important that such individuals are able to change their preferred method of hearing outside the 30-day period.

Response: This final rule does not affect or modify the procedures we follow in considering requests for reasonable accommodations under current law. Rather, it simply provides additional manners of appearance, which will make it easier for claimants to appear at their hearings. While we understand that some commenters have expressed concerns with our existing reasonable accommodation process, including under HALLEX I-2-0-8, these comments are outside the scope of this regulation change because we are not revising our reasonable accommodation procedures. We will, however, take these comments under advisement and review our existing reasonable accommodation process, including how to find information about the process, for possible updates.

Comment: One commenter cited “poor communication between [Office of Hearings Operations] staff and representatives when a hearing is delayed due to scheduling or technical issues” for telephone and video appearances. The commenter also said judges and hearing reporters are not notified when representatives submit a phone number or email address change in advance, which may cause hearing office staff to dial incorrect phone numbers or use incorrect email addresses, potentially resulting in claimants or representatives being designated as “no-shows” at hearings. The commenter requested that we take additional steps to assist claimants with technical and other same-day problems that arise, and suggested a portal where the representative and claimant could check the real-time status of the hearing and update their contact information. Other commenters reported difficulty reaching a hearing office to address similar same-day problems. For example, one commenter said that when there is a significant delay with the start time of a hearing, it is difficult to reach the hearing office to confirm the hearing is going forward and address any miscommunication. The commenter urged us to make available a telephone contact for claimants and representatives when facing such problems during or prior to the start of a scheduled hearing and to ensure staff is available and responsive by telephone. Another commenter stated it is difficult to communicate specifically with National Hearing Centers, in particular Baltimore or Chicago, causing unnecessary delays and continuances through no fault of the claimant or their office. They also said it is difficult to have accurate scheduling, causing delays due to conflicts.

Another commenter said it takes “too long to even get a phone hearing.” The commenter asserted that local hearing offices may need assistance from other States because of the “enormous backlog,” especially related to Federal remand hearings. The commenter asked us to “focus on speeding up the process.” Another commenter expressed that many claimants are experiencing long delays in having their hearings scheduled, partly because of the COVID-19 national public health emergency, but also due to employee shortages at their locations.

Response: We acknowledge the concerns raised by the commenters and are working diligently to implement procedural and efficiency improvements in our hearing process. The commenters' recommendations relate to our internal practices and procedures, not the policy in this final rule. However, we appreciate the comments and plan to consider them as we continue evaluating and updating, as necessary, our internal practices and procedures to ensure appropriate support during audio and video appearances.

Comment: A commenter expressed that, for online video appearances, claimants are “overwhelmingly unable” to operate the Teams application without assistance, and even with assistance, there are often technical difficulties. Additionally, the commenter stated that ALJs “pushed” claimants to appear by telephone if there were technical difficulties during an online video appearance. The commenter asserted that these situations created concern that the “use of the Teams app allowed for inconsistent policies among ALJs.”

Response: The commenter's reported experience does not match our data. Our survey data showed that 83 percent of claimants were satisfied with their online video hearing. [ 28 ] However, given the unique factors related to online video appearances, this final rule differs from our proposed rule in that it requires a claimant to agree to appear by online video before we will schedule that manner of appearance. Depending on the logistics of any given case, it might be possible to schedule a hearing more quickly using one manner of appearance over another, but we will not pressure a claimant regarding their choice to agree to online video or to object to audio or agency video.

Regarding the commenter's concern about difficulties that arise during online video appearances, this final rule, §§ 404.944 and 416.1444, provide that an ALJ may stop a hearing temporarily and continue it at a later date if one or more variables outside of our control, such as audio quality or video quality, materially affects the hearing. We will then determine the manner of appearance for a continued hearing like we would any other hearing. This determination involves considering which manner would be most efficient and any facts of the case that provide a good reason to schedule the claimant to appear in a certain manner. We plan to provide additional training to our ALJs to ensure consistent application of this rule.

Comment: One commenter said it is crucial to acknowledge explicitly the need for audio in video-based appearances, since otherwise people might think the video option did not include audio. The commenter stated that we must recognize the insufficiency of video alone for effective communication during hearings. According to the commenter, ignoring the audio aspect introduces an incomplete scenario that could lead to potential issues.

Response: We agree with the commenter that some individuals might not understand our presumption that video includes audio. Accordingly, this final rule explains that agency video and online video include the element of audio.

Comment: One commenter suggested that, in the event of an irresolvable technical disruption, an adjourned hearing be rescheduled expeditiously.

Response: We plan to schedule continued hearings following adjournments for technical difficulties as quickly as our available resources will allow. However, our regulations require us to send a notice of continued hearing at least 20 days in advance, unless a claimant waives the 20-day advance notice requirement. [ 29 ]

Comment: Some commenters disagreed with the 30-day timeframe to allow claimants to object to a particular manner of appearance. One commenter said that confining the period to 30 days after the date the claimant receives the ( print page 68351) notice is more restrictive than current practice and would “fail to recognize the rapidly changing circumstances” of claimants. Another commenter said we should remove any deadline to object to the manner of appearance. Others suggested longer deadlines such as 60 days, five business days before a hearing, and the date the hearing is scheduled. Commenters expressed that additional time is necessary to locate unhoused or very low-income claimants, especially those who lack consistent access to communication resources like working phones or mailing addresses. Another commenter stated that claimants should be entitled to change the manner of hearing from audio to video, or video to audio, at any point up to five business days before a scheduled hearing because, in the view of the commenter, that could be accomplished without disruption to the hearing schedule.

Response: Although we acknowledge commenters' concerns about the potential for missed opportunities to object to a particular manner of appearance, we did not change the 30-day time period for objecting to appearances by agency video or by audio. Thirty days offers an appropriate balance between allocating enough time for claimants or their representatives to object, while also allowing us sufficient time to determine the manner of appearance and schedule the hearing. It is critical for us to know the available manners of appearance to schedule timely hearings because we schedule hundreds of thousands of hearings per year. [ 30 ] A longer or indefinite time period would delay scheduling and, therefore, lead to longer hearing wait times. Some of the longer time periods suggested by the commenters, and certainly those that approach the actual day of the hearing, do not take into account the disruption or delay such last-minute changes would cause. We schedule each hearing based on considerations for that particular case and the overall resources available.

We do not agree that this 30-day period is “more restrictive than current practice.” The 30-day time period to object to an appearance by agency video or by audio is consistent with the current VTC objection policy in our regulations. Even so, some commenters may still perceive this rule as “more restrictive” because under our current business process, we generally require a claimant's agreement before we schedule them to appear by telephone, whereas this final rule gives claimants an opportunity to object to appearing by audio. However, we expect that the overall flexibilities provided by this final rule will offset any seemingly greater restriction.

As discussed earlier, it is often difficult to receive responses from some claimants when we ask them to contact us. For example, during the period from December 2020, when we began offering appearances by online video, until the end of the COVID-19 national public health emergency in May 2023, 25 percent of claimants did not respond to our form asking if they would like to appear by telephone or online video. [ 31 ] By not requiring an “opt in” for audio, we will be able to efficiently schedule audio hearings for claimants who do not respond. This efficient scheduling of audio hearings will allow us to provide more timely hearings to all claimants. For appearances by audio, we do not need to coordinate hearing room space because the claimants appear from private locations of their choice, and ALJs generally conduct hearings from a private location other than a hearing room. We can also transfer cases with audio appearances to offices and regions with more capacity, which reduces hearing wait times.

When we implement this final rule, we will create a new notice and publication explaining the different manners of appearance and the various requirements. We will also revise our existing objection form so that claimants can easily object to appearances by agency video or by audio, and we will create a new form on which claimants can agree, if they would like, to appear by online video.

Finally, as in our current rule, we will extend the time period if a claimant shows they had good cause for missing the deadline. We expect that this good cause provision will effectively accommodate those who lack consistent access to communication resources.

Comment: Commenters stated that many claimants have limited or unreliable access to electronic devices or high-speed broadband access. One commenter said that many of the same claimants who could successfully use online hearing options are those best positioned to elect an alternative form of appearance.

Response: We understand from these comments that we need to consider appearances by online video differently than other manners of appearance. This difference is needed because appearances by online video require using private electronic devices that we do not own, operate, or specifically approve and also using third-party software. Therefore, in this final rule, we created two categories of video appearances: (1) agency video and (2) online video. Agency video means video, with audio functionality, using our equipment in one of our offices. Online video means video, with audio functionality, using a personal electronic device in a private location the claimant chooses.

Furthermore, because of the unique circumstances involved in appearances by online video, we will only schedule appearances by that manner if the claimant agrees. Thus, there will be no need for claimants to object to appearing by online video. We are not requiring claimants' agreement for audio or agency video appearances because those manners of appearance do not involve the same unique circumstances as online video. Particularly significant is the fact that audio and agency video appearances do not require using third-party software.

We will send claimants a notice informing them that we may schedule them to appear by online video if they agree to appear in that manner. To agree to appear by online video, claimants must notify us in writing within 30 days of receiving that notice. We are adopting a 30-day deadline because we need to know early in the process whether a claimant agrees to appear by online video in order to help schedule timely hearings for all claimants. Moreover, changing the manner of appearance after we schedule a hearing requires us to send an amended notice of hearing at least 20 days before the hearing, which may require us to reschedule the hearing for a later date unless we are able to obtain a written waiver from the claimant. [ 32 ] We will extend the 30-day time period for agreeing to online video if the claimant shows that they had good cause for missing the deadline. We will evaluate good cause using the standards in 20 CFR 404.911 and 416.1411 . Within our discretion and where possible, even without a showing of good cause, we will still consider a request to change the manner of appearance to online video after the 30-day time period if it would be efficient to conduct the hearing in that manner and the circumstances in the case provide a ( print page 68352) good reason to schedule the claimant's appearance by online video.

Comment: According to one commenter, the examples of good cause for untimely objections identified in proposed 20 CFR 404.936(d)(2) and 416.1436(d)(2) are problematic, creating a loophole in the rule that would effectively eliminate the deadline for objecting to audio and video appearances. One example of good cause for an untimely objection that we provided in the NPRM was disagreement with the terms of service for a third-party application. The commenter said if that were enough to show good cause for an untimely objection, any claimant would be able to successfully raise an objection at any time simply by claiming to disagree with the terms of service of the third-party application we use. Thus, we would be required to schedule the claimant to appear in another manner whenever a claimant scheduled for an online video appearance stated disagreement with the terms of service, even if that claimant waited until a day before the originally scheduled hearing. The commenter expressed this would be disruptive to hearing operations, requiring last-minute postponement of hearings and loss of productivity, which has been a “major undesirable feature of the current opt-in, object-at-any-time hearing process.” The commenter suggested that if we think the rule needs to specify examples of good cause for untimely objections, the examples should involve much more compelling circumstances, such as those currently required for untimely objections to VTC. [ 33 ] The commenter expressed it may be better not to provide examples, and rather leave it to ALJs to exercise their judgment in determining whether good cause for untimely objections has been shown.

Another commenter stated that the two examples of good cause from the NPRM (disagreement with the terms of service of the third-party application or lack of resources to appear by video) do not establish good cause because both scenarios can be ascertained within the 30-day timeframe for objection.

Response: We did not adopt the two examples of good cause provided in the NPRM because they pertained to objections to appearing by online video only. Under this final rule, a claimant does not need to object to appearing by online video. Rather, this final rule provides that we will not schedule a claimant to appear by online video unless the claimant agrees to appear in that manner, and it provides that a claimant may withdraw their agreement to appear by online video at any time before the start of the hearing. If the claimant withdraws their agreement, we will reschedule the claimant to appear by one of the other available manners of appearance. While we will try to reschedule the hearing as quickly as possible, the time to reschedule will depend on multiple factors, including representative, expert witness and ALJ availability, as well as available hearing slots. Additionally, we can reschedule the hearing no earlier than 20 days after the withdrawal unless the claimant waives in writing the advanced written hearing notice requirement. [ 34 ] Although we did not adopt the two examples of good cause provided in the NPRM, a claimant may still submit a late objection to appearing by audio or agency video. If we receive a late objection, we will use the standards in 20 CFR 404.911 and 416.1411 to evaluate whether good cause exists for missing the deadline.

Comment: According to some commenters, we should expand upon the circumstances in which claimants can opt out of manners of appearance beyond the 30-day objection period. Some commenters said we should do this by adding more examples of what would constitute good cause to change the manner of appearance. [ 35 ] Other commenters said we should specify circumstances that would not require a good cause determination but would still permit us to change the manner of appearance beyond the objection period. According to one commenter, while retaining “good cause” exceptions for claimants with extenuating circumstances is important, it is not sufficient because good cause exceptions are individualized determinations based on judgment. Instead, according to the commenter, in certain situations, claimants should be able to automatically modify the manner of appearance. Some commenters stated that such requests should be processed by hearings staff, without involvement of the ALJ. Commenters provided examples of circumstances they asserted should allow claimants to change their manner of appearance beyond the proposed objection period without requiring a good cause determination. Some of the suggested circumstances include:

• If the claimant obtains counsel for their disability hearing.
• If claimants change or obtain new counsel.
• If there is a change of address.
• If there is a change in medical condition, including hospitalization, because some of these changes may impact accessibility to certain hearing formats.
• If the custody or guardianship of a child changes.
• If the claimant is homeless.
• If the claimant lacks necessary equipment, such as a personal electronic device with internet access.
• If the claimant never received the notice to object due to mailing problems, homelessness, illiteracy, or inability to read English.
• Lack of proper identification (for hearings in government buildings).

One commenter expressed that because claimants may have “long wait times of multiple years before getting to appear at a hearing before an ALJ, this process ought to account for changes in circumstances with flexibility and lenient consideration.” Another commenter said that claimants unfamiliar with hearing modalities offered will not likely know whether they need to request an accommodation or may assume that accommodations will be easily provided. Additional commenters said that a claimant who elects or defaults to a video or audio appearance may not understand the nature of the appearance, and allowing changes in manner of appearance until a hearing is scheduled promotes informed decisions.

According to a commenter, the lack of clarity regarding what constitutes good cause to object to appearing by VTC (under current regulations) has resulted in ALJs denying late objections for circumstances that would likely have been granted if detailed with further clarity.

Finally, a commenter expressed that, in addition to the reasons we would allow a change, the rule should clarify whether, how, when, and how often a claimant can change their manner of appearance preference.

Response: We did not adopt these comments. This final rule does not include the two examples of good cause from the NPRM because, as discussed above, those examples are unnecessary based on changes to the final rule. ( print page 68353)

We retained the policy in our current regulations for evaluating good cause for an untimely objection. Under that policy, we use the standards in 20 CFR 404.911 and 416.1411 to evaluate good cause. We have been using those standards to evaluate good cause for missing the deadline to object to a VTC appearance for nearly a decade. [ 36 ] Those standards are broad and effective, and they are appropriate for considering a wide range of reasons for missing a deadline, including those identified by the commenters.

Expanding the standards for evaluating good cause too broadly, including by adding more across-the-board examples that would require a change at any time, would disrupt the efficiency of our hearing process. Therefore, it is important to retain our current standards, which have worked well for a long time, and which allow us to make case-specific good cause determinations based on individual circumstances.

Our ALJs are well positioned to evaluate good cause and have extensive experience doing so. While a commenter suggested that ALJs do not evaluate good cause appropriately, the commenter did not provide examples, and the commenter's suggestion does not match our experience.

Comment: Some commenters expressed concerns that the proposal may cause a surge in discretionary good cause determinations. One commenter said many claimants will object after the 30-day period, and that requiring ALJ decisions on an “influx” of requests to change the manner of appearance for good cause will likely weigh the agency down with administrative burdens and erode uniformity and equity of claim outcomes. The commenter said that the addition of a new discretionary procedure will most likely hurt the least-resourced and furthest marginalized claimants.

A different commenter stated that there may be an increase in claimants unable to attend hearings by audio or video because they either did not know of those manners of appearance or are unable to attend in the manner scheduled, which “will further increase the administrative courts issuing Orders to Show Cause (OSC) for failure to appear.” The commenter stated that ALJs will be required to rule on OSC responses, requiring subsequent administrative action that would be otherwise unnecessary.

Response: We disagree with these commenters. We do not anticipate an influx of untimely objections, and we do not anticipate delays or lack of uniformity in our good cause determinations. As we noted in our other responses, our ALJs have extensive experience evaluating good cause under the standards in 20 CFR 404.911 and 416.1411 . Our ALJs have been doing so regarding VTC objections since 2014  [ 37 ] and regarding other deadlines for nearly three decades. [ 38 ] There is nothing unique about appearances by agency video or by audio that would necessitate a change.

Moreover, we expect that the manners of appearance in this final rule will make it easier for many claimants, especially those facing barriers to service, to attend their hearings. As such, we anticipate that fewer—not more—claimants will fail to appear at their hearings, which will result in the need to issue fewer Requests to Show Cause for Failure to Appear (Form SSA- HA-L90s).

Comment: Multiple commenters expressed support for retaining in-person hearings as the default manner of appearance. One commenter asserted that changing the default manner of appearance will “adversely affect vulnerable claimants.” They expressed that many claimants, particularly those who are unhoused or lack reliable access to mail, are not always able to respond to notices regarding the manner of appearance. Some commenters said that mail service remains “spotty at best” in many low-income neighborhoods and claimants facing the most significant barriers, including homelessness, poverty, and housing instability, move frequently. According to some commenters, our inability to reach approximately 30 percent of claimants (data we reported in the NPRM) should not be “interpreted as endorsement of, or acquiescence to, the change in platforms.” The commenter expressed that a change in the default manner of appearance could create a group of claimants who would have elected an in-person hearing, but because of housing insecurity, physical or behavioral deficits in their ability to read and understand, or other reasons, are forced into a manner of appearance which they did not choose.

Another commenter said the “onus should not be on the claimant to affirmatively pursue and protect their right to appear at their hearing in person.” According to the commenter, the proposed regulations “unfairly shift the burden of preserving the right to appear in person on the claimant by requiring them to object, but also require the claimant to navigate a duplicative, cumbersome process to do so.” According to a different commenter, audio hearings are a “true disservice to the disabled individuals seeking benefits,” and unless claimants specifically request audio, it “deprives them of a full and fair hearing, particularly if they are not represented.” Another commenter asserted that telephone hearings do not provide claimants with an opportunity to fully present their case, which causes cases to be “decided unfavorably due to an error by the ALJ that would have been avoided in an in-person hearing.” The commenter said that the denial rate for telephone hearings didn't reflect what they expected based on their experience with the ALJs in their region, and they found many decisions were “so deficient as to require appeal.” The commenter expressed that in-person, local hearings should be the preferred manner of appearance.

Another commenter said that, unless a particular claimant has indicated a preference for an audio or video appearance, they should be scheduled for an in-person appearance to enable the “fullest evaluation of their claim.” According to some commenters, in-person appearances are often necessary for an adjudicator to fully observe the physical manifestations of a claimant's disabilities (such as their physical functioning, scars, mannerisms, and hygiene) and accurately assess a claimant's credibility. A commenter stated that confused or anxious looks can be visual evidence of confusion or anxiety. Another commenter said that claimants often must testify to highly personal, emotional, traumatic symptoms and events, and that requiring them to testify in a manner contrary to their choice may lead to less claimant disclosure and decisions based on incomplete information.

One commenter said that scheduling audio or video appearances without providing a meaningful opportunity to opt out effectively removes a claimant's one chance to engage in an in-person interaction with a decision-maker for the entire disability determination process (since we usually rely on document review for the initial and reconsideration determinations, and the Appeals Council and District Court appellate processes). According to the commenter, allowing in-person ( print page 68354) appearances for all who choose it “demonstrates respect” and “promotes dignity and transparency in what may appear to be a largely invisible and impersonal process.” Further, the commenter said defaulting to audio or video appearances demotes this process to one that may feel “less legitimate, presenting a significant disruption to the human element of disability adjudication.” Another commenter stated this is the first interaction that some claimants have with the American legal system and the right to be heard in person. They expressed that this is a core value in our justice system and any changes we make should not erode this right.

Response: We are not eliminating in-person appearances, nor are we making in-person appearances the default. Under this final rule, we will generally schedule a claimant to appear in person if the claimant timely objects to appearing by audio and agency video and if the claimant does not timely agree to appear by online video. [ 39 ] Absent an objection, we will not default to scheduling claimants by agency video or by audio. Rather, under 20 CFR 404.936(c)(1)(ii) and 416.1436(c)(1)(ii) of this final rule, we will consider which manner would be the most efficient and any facts that provide a good reason for a specific manner of appearance. Thus, we may schedule an in-person appearance if we determine it is necessary.

This final rule adds flexibility to our policy on manners of appearance and gives claimants an opportunity to have input on their own manner of appearance. Many other commenters highlighted the benefits of, and indeed a preference for, appearances by audio and video. For example, commenters noted that audio and video appearances will result in greater overall flexibility for claimants. Commenters also stated that both video and audio appearances can be advantageous for claimants who have limited transportation options, who live far from hearing offices, or who have circumstances like limited mobility or severe anxiety. Furthermore, our experience stemming from the COVID-19 national public health emergency shows that many claimants desire to appear by audio or video. [ 40 ] Since we began reopening our offices to the public in March 2022, many claimants continue to choose a telephone or online video appearance. Since March 2022, approximately 70.5 percent of hearing appearances have occurred by telephone, 14.4 percent by online video, 13.6 percent in person, and 1.5 percent by VTC. [ 41 ] Our survey data also showed that 83 percent of claimants were satisfied with their online video hearing. [ 42 ] The audio, agency video, and online video manners of appearance in this final rule will help us to balance workloads and reduce wait and processing times, thereby providing more timely hearings for claimants.

We disagree with one commenter's assertion that audio appearances result in more denials to claimants. The commenter did not provide any data to support the assertion. Furthermore, comments about assessing a claimant's credibility are an inaccurate description of our rules because our ALJs do not evaluate a claimant's credibility. Instead, our ALJs evaluate the intensity, persistence, and limiting effects of an individual's symptoms based on all the evidence of record. We do not assess a claimant's overall character or truthfulness in the manner typically used during adversarial litigation. [ 43 ]

In conclusion, it would be as inappropriate for us to automatically assume that a claimant prefers to appear at a hearing in-person as it would be for us to assume the claimant wants to appear by online video. Indeed, we designed this final rule to allow claimants to have input into the manner in which they will appear at hearings.

Comment: One commenter said the proposed rule has the potential to improve on our current practice, primarily because it creates an opt-out process for audio and video appearances and provides a deadline for opting out. This opt out process is in contrast to the current process, which requires opting in for audio and video appearances and allows claimants and representatives to “disrupt” hearing schedules by raising objections to audio and video appearances at any time. Another commenter stated that “in-person hearings should not be the automatic default for claimants” and that claimants usually prefer video to in-person hearings, as they can appear from home yet “still see the ALJ and be seen clearly, with very few cases of tech problems.”

Response: We agree that appearances by audio, agency video, and online video provide significant benefits to claimants, representatives, and us. However, as discussed above, under this final rule, we will only schedule an online video appearance if the claimant agrees because of the unique circumstances of that manner of appearance.

Comment: One commenter expressed concerns that our proposed regulations would lead to local hearing offices staffed with only a few ALJs willing to hold hearings with in-person appearances, and that there would be pressure on claimants to choose an alternative option to have their case heard “earlier” by a remote ALJ by video or audio. The commenter recommended that we continue to staff local hearing offices with sufficient ALJs to hold hearings with in-person appearances. Another commenter requested that we update our policy to describe the “need to conduct hearings using multiple formats during an [ALJ's] day.” According to the commenter, too often, the convenience of our employees outweighs the needs of claimants to have their hearings held using first-in first-out scheduling.

Response: We will continue to staff our hearing offices, budgets permitting, with sufficient personnel, including ALJs, to accommodate in-person and agency video appearances. For an in-person appearance, we have a fixed number of hearing rooms, which we must coordinate the scheduling of among our ALJs and claimants. We also do not have the ability to transfer a case with an in-person appearance to a non-local hearing office with more capacity.

For appearances by audio and online video, we do not need to coordinate hearing room space because the claimants appear from private locations of their choice, and ALJs generally conduct hearings from a private location other than a hearing room. We can also transfer cases with audio, agency video, ( print page 68355) and online video appearances to offices and regions with more capacity, which reduces hearing wait times. An advantage of this final rule is that it allows us to transfer cases to fill hearing office capacity without the geographic limitations of the current rules. Although we strive wherever possible to process cases in order, the flexibilities and efficiencies this final rule provides may result in a slight deviation from the first in, first out order to optimize our hearing process overall. Depending on the logistics of a particular case, it might be possible to schedule appearances by audio or video more quickly than in person, but we will not pressure a claimant regarding their choice to agree to online video or to object to audio or agency video. This final rule does not prioritize the convenience of our employees over our claimants. Finally, because we temporarily closed our offices for a period during the COVID-19 national public health emergency and we reopened our offices gradually, we communicated to claimants that scheduling would be delayed for individuals who did not agree to appear by telephone or online video. Now that the emergency has ended, we no longer communicate that scheduling in-person appearances will be delayed.

Comment: One commenter said our proposal would limit claimants' rights to request in-person hearings and thereby affect their right to due process. The commenter stated that the Supreme Court has held that, in a case involving welfare, a recipient has a due process right to a hearing before they can be deprived of benefits, and that due process requires the opportunity to be heard “at a meaningful time and in a meaningful manner.” The commenter referred to a study that, according to the commenter, found a deprivation of an in-person hearing for people seeking asylum resulted in an increased risk of negative outcomes. [ 44 ] The commenter stated that a court today would find that due process requires the right to an in-person hearing, particularly in claims for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). As such, the commenter asserted that the rule, as proposed, would potentially violate the procedural due process rights of Social Security claimants.

Another commenter expressed that “procedural Due Process serves two basic goals: (1) preventing the wrongful deprivation of interests, and (2) promoting fairness by providing a meaningful opportunity for individuals to share their side of the story with the government.” According to the commenter, “imposed” audio or video appearances that conflict with a claimant's preferred manner of appearance militate against both goals. The commenter said a “sizeable number” of claimants will lack the capacity to respond in 30 days. According to the commenter, if these claimants are scheduled for an audio or video appearance and are unable to appear at the remote hearing because they lack notice and the necessary tools to appear, such as a phone or computer, their claims will likely be dismissed for failure to appear. The commenter stated, for this reason, this change in policy will increase procedural dismissals in substantively valid disability claims, significantly violating claimants' due process rights.

Response: This final rule will help to safeguard a claimant's right to a full and fair hearing. Barring limited circumstances, no provisions in this final rule limit a claimant's ability to appear at a hearing in person, if the claimant wants to appear in that manner. Moreover, the procedures set forth in this final rule are similar to the procedures in our current rules, procedures that have operated well for many years.

Under our current rules, if a claimant wants to appear at a hearing in person, instead of by VTC, the claimant can object to appearing by VTC within a 30-day period. Claimants who have good cause for missing the 30-day deadline can submit a late objection. If the claimant objects timely to appearing by VTC (or objects after the 30-day period and we find good cause for late filing), and the claimant's residence does not change, we will schedule the claimant to appear at a hearing in person. Similarly, under this final rule, if a claimant wants to appear at a hearing in person, instead of by audio, agency video, or online video, the claimant can object to appearing by audio and agency video within the same 30-day period, or can submit a late objection based on a showing of good cause for missing the deadline. We will not schedule an appearance by online video unless the claimant agrees. If the claimant objects timely to appearing by audio and agency video (or objects after the 30-day period and we find good cause for the late filing), the claimant's residence does not change, and the claimant has not agreed to appear by online video, we will schedule the claimant to appear at a hearing in person. Thus, a claimant has the same opportunity to appear at a hearing in person under this final rule as under our current rules.

Under this final rule as well as under our current rules, there are very limited circumstances where we will schedule a claimant to appear at a hearing by audio despite the claimant's objection to appearing in that manner. For example, under this final rule, we will schedule a claimant to appear by audio when we cannot schedule the claimant to appear by video, e.g., because the claimant objected to appearing by agency video and did not agree to appear by online video, and extraordinary circumstances prevent the claimant from appearing in person. [ 45 ]

We take seriously our responsibility to ensure that claimants receive full and fair hearings as well as accurate hearing decisions. Our experience with VTC appearances over the last 20 years, and our more recent experience with online video and telephone appearances during the COVID-19 national public health emergency shows that claimants do not have to appear in person to be heard meaningfully. Our ALJs look fully into the issues and follow the same policies and procedures, regardless of the claimant's manner of appearance. If a variable outside an ALJ's control, such as audio or video quality, were to materially affect a hearing, this final rule, §§ 404.944 and 416.1444, provide that the ALJ may stop the hearing temporarily and continue it at a later date.

While a commenter opined that due process requires an in-person appearance, particularly for claimants seeking SSI, the commenter did not explain why. Instead, the commenter referenced a study that, according to the commenter, concluded that VTC hearings for people seeking asylum resulted in an increased risk of negative outcomes. [ 46 ] Notably though, an asylum removal hearing differs significantly from a Social Security hearing. An asylum removal hearing is an adversarial proceeding, whereas a hearing on a claim for benefits under the Social Security Act is informal and non-adversarial. [ 47 ]

Our ALJs are neutral decision-makers who develop all of the facts regarding a benefit claim. An immigration judge does not perform that same fact-finding function. Rather, an immigration judge rules on the evidence presented by the parties, one of whom is the United States, represented by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement attorney. Additionally, the study the commenter referenced notes that the testimony of an asylum applicant at an asylum hearing is especially important because, in order to meet the definition of “refugees,” they must have fled their country and may have little to no documentation to support their allegations of persecution. [ 48 ] Thus, an asylum removal hearing is not comparable to a Social Security hearing. As previously explained, our experience shows that claimants receive full and fair hearings regardless of whether they appear in person or by VTC, online video, or audio.

Furthermore, even in relation to the asylum example cited by the commenter, courts have upheld the use of video conferencing for asylum hearings. Those courts have examined whether the asylum petitioner received a full and fair hearing based on the facts of the individual case, including the use of video conferencing. [ 49 ]

As noted elsewhere, this final rule recognizes that some claimants may not want to appear at a hearing by agency video or by audio, but, due to personal circumstances, may be unable to meet the deadline to object to those manners of appearance. In those circumstances, and others, we will extend the deadline for submitting an objection if the claimant shows good cause for missing it. And, again, this final rule specifies that we will only schedule a claimant to appear by online video if they agree to an appearance in that manner.

Ultimately, we expect this final rule will make it easier, not more difficult, for claimants to attend hearings. As multiple commenters recognized, making audio and video appearances available helps claimants who, for a variety of reasons, have difficulty traveling to, or participating from, our offices.

Additionally, under our longstanding procedures, if neither the claimant nor the appointed representative, if any, appears for a scheduled hearing, we will not dismiss the request for hearing if the claimant shows good cause for failing to appear. [ 50 ]

Comment: Another commenter said the proposed regulation's shift of burden (modifying the requirement that a claimant “consent to appear at a hearing” to requiring claimants to “object to appearing at a hearing by video, audio, or both”) conflicts with the “individual's right to appear, in person or through a representative.” According to the commenter, “absent direct expression by U.S. Congress to depart from this enacted right, the Administration cannot implement regulations to change it.” The commenter asserted that pursuant to Social Security Ruling (SSR) 79-19, [ 51 ] an individual's waiver of the right to personal appearance at a hearing needs to be “made voluntarily and knowingly.” The commenter said that a claimant who has not objected to appear remotely has neither “voluntarily nor knowingly” waived the right to appear in person. The commenter asserted that it follows that claimants also have the option to rescind an election for remote appearance at any time.

Response: The commenter has misconstrued SSR 79-19. That SSR provides guidance about waiver of a claimant's statutory right to appear at a hearing, either personally or through a representative. Under our regulations, an ALJ may decide a case without a hearing if all the parties to the hearing indicate in writing that they do not wish to appear at a hearing. [ 52 ] SSR 79-19 requires the agency to give a claimant who files a request for hearing a thorough explanation of the hearing procedures to help convey the importance of those procedures, and it sets forth the requirements for a valid waiver of the right to appear at a hearing. Contrary to the commenter's statement, SSR 79-19 does not relate to manners of appearance, and neither SSR 79-19 nor any other authority requires a claimant to voluntarily and knowingly waive the opportunity to appear in person before we can schedule another manner of appearance. Moreover, under our current rules, we routinely schedule claimants to appear at hearings by VTC, without requiring any waiver of the opportunity to appear in person. [ 53 ]

Comment: Multiple commenters said a claimant should have the right to a hearing before an ALJ who is local to the claimant's residence. According to commenters, local healthcare options, cultural and other barriers to evidence, language, and other regional differences contribute to a claimant receiving a higher quality hearing before a local ALJ. Some commenters said that the proposed regulations “continue to encourage a problematic slide within our agency toward scheduling hearings with ALJs who lack knowledge of the claimant's region.” Other commenters expressed that local ALJs are familiar with unique vocational factors and know the specific circuit's case law. In addition, a commenter said local attorneys have sufficient experience and knowledge of local ALJs' preferences, ranging from supplying evidence, to brief formatting and content, to how hearings are conducted. The commenter stated that familiarity with an ALJ's preferences allows the entire hearing process to run more efficiently, and the consequential increased need to appear before non-local ALJs will result in longer hearings and more supplemental hearings, costing more in the end. The commenter said, in some cases, remote ALJs have seemed “disparaging and unreasonably disbelieving” of claimants from the commenter's region, which has a “distinct cultural identity and racial and ethnic demography.”

Another commenter stated that the proposed notices do not inform claimants that choosing a remote appearance may result in their case being transferred to “any hearing office in the country,” and took issue with the lack of notice regarding the potential for cases to be transferred outside one's local hearing office.

Response: We did not adopt these recommendations because claimants do not have a statutory right to a hearing in their region or locally. We administer a national program, and, unless a relevant acquiescence ruling applies, our ALJs apply our national policies to ( print page 68357) all cases. [ 54 ] We also have extensive experience conducting hearings with ALJs who are in different locations than our claimants. For example, ALJs at our National Hearing Centers conduct hearings with claimants located throughout the nation. In addition, we transfer cases to other offices and regions to help balance our processing times. As we explained in our NPRM, we transferred approximately 17 percent of our cases in fiscal year 2022. [ 55 ]

Our policy requires ALJs to conduct fair and impartial hearings  [ 56 ] and we have processes and procedures in place to address any issues that arise. [ 57 ] Indeed, as previously explained in this rule, one of the driving factors behind this regulation is the desire to achieve greater equity for all claimants, including those from historically underserved racial or ethnic groups.

Comment: One commenter said claimants and their representatives should be allowed to opt for video appearances in every case, and they should never be required to appear by audio if they seek a video appearance (where the ALJ can observe the claimant).

Response: As we stated in an earlier response, it is not administratively feasible to allow claimants to select their preferred manner of appearance. However, this final rule provides for claimant input by allowing claimants to object to appearing by audio or agency video and by requiring a claimant's agreement to an appearance by online video. We must have flexibility in our scheduling process because we schedule hundreds of thousands of hearings per year, and flexibility enhances our efficiency.

If a claimant does not want to appear by audio, they can object to appearing in that manner. Under this final rule, we will generally not schedule an appearance by audio if the claimant timely objects to appearing in that manner. Generally, we will only schedule an appearance by audio, notwithstanding an objection to appearing in that manner in very limited circumstances, when an appearance by video or in person is not available. [ 58 ] This is consistent with our current rules, which allow us to require an appearance by telephone in certain limited circumstances. Despite the current provisions, we have historically required a telephone appearance in very few cases. Even during the COVID-19 national public health emergency, we asked claimants if they agreed to appear by telephone before holding a hearing in that manner. Similarly, under this final rule, we expect that we will require a claimant to appear by audio notwithstanding their objection in few cases.

Comment: Multiple commenters indicated that the current election form  [ 59 ] should be more user friendly. One commenter said that many claimants are confused by the current form, which has led those who would have preferred an audio or video appearance to wait years for an in-person appearance because they did not understand how to communicate their agreement to audio or video to us. The commenter provided a sample form and suggested we designate it as the “Manner of Appearance Election For Social Security Administrative Law Judge Hearings.” They also suggested that we include the form with the letter that informs the claimant of the hearing process. Commenters said the letter should make clear that the claimant has 30 days to respond, or the hearing will be scheduled in person. According to the commenter, the proposed form could also be used to indicate a claimant's request to change the manner of appearance and the reason for the requested change.

Another commenter said the notice should explain how effectively ASL and other language access can be provided with each manner of appearance, including how all participants will be shown on the screen, when applicable, and whether there will be a number to call on the day of the hearing if they run into trouble accessing the hearing. An additional commenter expressed that there should be a more accessible method for claimants and representatives to state a preference for an in-person, audio, or video appearance.

One commenter stated the new form should provide a check box near the top of the proposed form that states, “I wish to have an in-person hearing.” According to the commenter, this would make this option a meaningful choice, and it would help claimants understand that in-person appearances are still an option. Multiple commenters advised the new form should remove the language that states, “I understand that by selecting this option my hearing may be delayed.”

Finally, commenters expressed that it is important that the rule provides clear instructions for objecting to a remote appearance, opting for an in-person appearance, and for providing good cause for the late submission of an objection.

Response: We will provide a new notice and publication explaining the manners of appearance, a revised form (Form HA-55) allowing claimants to object to appearances by audio and agency video, and a new form allowing claimants to agree to appearances by online video. These documents will clearly explain the various manners of appearance, the requirements for each, and the time period for objecting to appearances by audio and by agency video and for agreeing to appearances by online video.

Our Request for Hearing Acknowledgment Letter (Form HA-L2) explains how claimants with limited English proficiency, or those who are deaf or hard of hearing, may request an interpreter, including for ASL. As we did throughout the COVID-19 national public health emergency, where requested, we will provide interpreters for all our manners of appearance. We also plan to revise our subregulatory policies to explain how we will offer interpreters for audio, agency video, and online video appearances. Based on our experience during the COVID-19 national public health emergency, we find that each manner of appearances is equally effective for all interpretation needs.

We also do not plan to adopt the suggestion to add a special checkbox for in-person appearances, because doing so would make it seem like in-person is the preferred or default manner. We will, though, seek approval from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for our revised objection form and new agreement form. As explained earlier, one of the goals of this regulation is to provide claimants with an opportunity to have input about their manner of appearance, based on what is best for them. As some of the public comments cited in this final rule indicate, an in- ( print page 68358) person appearance is not necessarily what is best for every claimant.

We have consulted with OMB and determined that this final rule meets the criteria for a significant regulatory action under E.O. 12866 , as supplemented by E.O. 13563 and amended by 14094, and is subject to OMB review.

The Office of the Chief Actuary estimates that there will be no significant changes in allowance rates for disability cases under the Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance (OASDI) and Federal SSI programs due to implementation of this final rule. The primary effects from implementing this final rule will be small cash flow effects due to conducting hearings and issuing decisions more timely. These changes are therefore expected to result in small changes of less than $500,000 in scheduled OASDI benefit payments and Federal SSI payments over the period from fiscal year 2024 through fiscal year 2033.

The Office of Budget, Finance, and Management estimates net administrative savings of less than 15 work years and $2 million annually. We anticipate a small savings from lower ALJ, claimant, and representative travel costs, offset some by slightly higher costs from an increase in forms returned to us by claimants.

As discussed in the NPRM, we expect that the flexibility provided by this rule will benefit claimants and our agency in several ways. First, we will be able to continue scheduling claimants to appear at hearings remotely, by audio (except when claimants object) and by online video (when claimants agree to this manner). Our experience, as well as that of claimants, during the COVID-19 national public health emergency showed that remote appearances are acceptable and beneficial to our hearing process. If claimants agree to appear by online video or do not object to appearing by audio, and we schedule them in one of those manners, they may save on costs associated with transportation ( e.g., gas, maintenance of vehicle, bus fare), and they may save time that they would otherwise have spent traveling. Likewise, they may not need to secure a replacement caregiver if they supervise family members or others, such as children, who cannot be left alone. In addition, if claimants have difficulty leaving the house because of limited mobility or other reasons, an online video or audio appearance will allow them to appear from a private location of their choice, such as their home.

This rule will also allow us to balance our workloads more efficiently among hearing offices because we can more easily transfer cases where the claimant is scheduled to appear by agency video, online video, or audio from one hearing office to another. We expect that this rule will help us to reduce overall wait and processing times across the country and reduce the disparities that exist from region to region and office to office.

Finally, the changes in this rule will allow us to be prepared for future emergency events, including localized events such as natural disasters and national public health emergencies similar to COVID-19 that could require us to temporarily suspend in-person or agency video appearances.

This final rule is not a major rule as defined by the Congressional Review Act. [ 60 ]

We analyzed this final rule in accordance with the principles and criteria established by Executive Order 13132 and determined that the final rule will not have sufficient federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a federalism assessment. We also determined that this final rule will not preempt any State law or State regulation or affect the States' abilities to discharge traditional State governmental functions.

We certify that this final rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities, as it affects individuals only. Therefore, a regulatory flexibility analysis is not required under the Regulatory Flexibility Act, as amended.

SSA already has existing OMB PRA-approved information collection tools relating to this proposed rule under OMB Control No. 0960-0671: Form HA-504, Acknowledgement of Receipt (Notice of Hearing); Form HA-L83, Acknowledgement of Receipt (Notice of Hearing) Cover Letter; Form HA-55, Objection to Appearing by Video Teleconferencing; Form HA-L2, Objection to Appearing by Video Teleconferencing Cover Letter; and Form HA-510, Waiver of Written Notice of Hearing. This final rule changes the ways in which the Social Security Administration conducts hearings, by expanding and clarifying our manner of appearance options. In addition, this rule clarifies that claimants may appear for hearings remotely using a telephone in the absence of extraordinary circumstances; and that claimants may also appear remotely by video using private electronic devices with approved online video conferencing applications, rather than only using SSA owned video equipment. We will need to revise the associated forms to reflect these changes. Overall, we do not anticipate significant burden changes due to this regulation. The burden chart below reflects our current burden estimates for the associated information collection tools, as well as the projected burden savings for the few Information Collections where we think the burden will change. We will obtain OMB approval for the revisions to the collection instruments concurrently with the effective date of this final rule.

In addition, due to the final rule, we are also creating a new notice, the HA-L54, Notice of Ways to Attend a Hearing, and a new Form, the HA-56, Agreement to Appearing by Online Video. The new notice, HA-L54, will explain in more detail the various ways to attend a hearing, the requirements for each appearance type, the ability to object to attending by audio or agency video, and the ability to agree to attending by online video. The HA-L54 will serve as a cover letter for Form HA-55 and new Form HA-56. The new form, HA-56, will allow claimants to agree to an appearance via online video (using MS Teams). Respondents will only use this form if they agree to an online video appearance. The instructions on both the HA-L54 and Form HA-56 will make this use of the Form HA-56 clear to the respondent. Claimants who wish to object to an appearance by audio or agency video will use the HA-55 to object.

The sections for the HA-56 and HA-L54 below report our anticipated public reporting burdens for these new forms.

Finally, as we created the new notice, HA-L54, we will no longer need to use the Claimant Enhanced Outreach Notices, since the new Notice replaces them. In addition, we also expect to replace the current Claimant Enhanced Outreach calls with one combined call, ( print page 68359) since we will use the new HA-L54 to collect the necessary information prior to a hearing but may still need an Outreach call to initiate the hearing process. Since we are removing these information collections, we anticipate a significant overall burden reduction for the public of about 168,366 hours. The chart below shows the overall burden reduction for this final rule.

We will obtain OMB approval both for the modifications to the existing collection instruments and the new collection instruments discussed above concurrently with the effective date of this final rule.

The following chart shows the time burden information associated with this final rule:

OMB #; form #; CFR citations	Number of respondents	Frequency of response	Average burden per response (minutes)	Current estimated total burden (hours)	Anticipated new number of responses under regulation	Anticipated estimated total burden under regulation (hours)	Estimated burden savings (hours)
HA-504 HA-504-OP1 HA-504-OP2 404.938(c) 413.1438(c)	700,000	1	30	350,000	700,000	350,000	0
HA-L83—404.936(f); 404.938; 416.1436(f); 416.1438	700,000	1	30	350,000	700,000	350,000	0
HA-L83—Good cause for missing deadline—404.936(f)(2); 416.1436(f)(2)	5,000	1	5	417	5,000	417	0
HA-L83—Objection stating issues in notice are incorrect—sent 5 days prior to hearing 404.939; 416.1439	35,000	1	5	2,917	35,000	2,917	0
HA-L2 Acknowledgement Letter 404.936 416.1436	500,000	1	5	41,667	500,000	41,667	0
HA-L54, HA-56, and HA-55—404.936; 404.938; 416.1436; 416.1438	500,000	1	10	83,333	500,000	83,333	0
HA-L2—Verification of New Residence 404.936(d)(4); 416.1436(d)(1)	35,000	1	5	2,917	35,000	2,917	0
HA-L54—Notification of objection to audio and agency video and agreement to online video more than 30-days after receipt of notice showing good cause 404.936(d)(1) and (e)(1); 416.1436(d)(1) and (e)(1)	13,500	1	10	2,250	13,500	2,250	0
HA-510—404.938(a); 416.1438(a)	4,000	1	2	133	4,000	133	0
Claimant Enhanced Outreach—Initial Call No Representative (Unrepresented Claimant/ProSe)	75,190	1	10	12,532	0	0	12,532
Claimant Enhanced Outreach—Initial Call with Representative	201,400	1	10	33,567	0	0	33,567
Claimant Enhanced Outreach—Follow Up Call—No Representative (Unrepresented Claimant/ProSe)	37,500	1	60	37,500	0	0	37,500
Claimant Enhanced Outreach—Follow Up Call—With Representative	120,800	1	30	60,400	0	0	60,400
Claimant Enhanced Outreach Call	0	1	30	0	75,190	37,500	37,500
Remote Hearing Options Letter and Form Mailed to Representative	280,000	1	10	46,667	0	0	46,667
Microsoft Teams Video Hearing Call Script—Representative Payee Outreach	50	1	20	17	0	0	17
Microsoft Teams Hearing Call Script—Claimant Outreach	50	1	20	17	0	0	17
Totals	3,557,490			1,039,500	2,492,500	833,634	168,366

The following chart shows the theoretical cost burdens associated with this final rule:

OMB #; form #; CFR citations	Anticipated number of respondents	Frequency of response	Average burden per response (minutes)	Anticipated estimated total burden under regulation (hours)	Average theoretical hourly cost amount (dollars) *	Total annual opportunity cost (dollars) **
HA-504 HA-504-OP1 HA-504-OP2 404.938(c) 413.1438(c)	700,000	1	30	350,000	* $22.39	** $7,836,500
HA-L83—404.936(f); 404.938; 416.1436(f); 416.1438	700,000	1	30	350,000	* 22.39	** 7,836,500
HA-L83—Good cause for missing deadline—404.936(f)(2); 416.1436(f)(2)	5,000	1	5	417	* 22.39	** 9,337
HA-L83—Objection stating issues in notice are incorrect—sent 5 days prior to hearing 404.939; 416.1439	35,000	1	5	2,917	* 22.39	** 65,312
HA-L2 Acknowledgement Letter 404.936 416.1436	500,000	1	5	41,667	* 22.39	** 932,924
HA-L54, HA-56, and HA-55—404.936; 404.938; 416.1436; 416.1438	500,000	1	10	83,333	* 22.39	** 1,865,826
HA-L2—Verification of New Residence 404.936(d)(4); 416.1436(d)(1)	35,000	1	5	2,917	* 22.39	** 65,312
HA-L54—Notification of objection to audio and agency video and agreement to online video more than 30-days after receipt of notice showing good cause 404.936(d)(1) and (e)(1); 416.1436(d)(1) and (e)(1)	13,500	1	10	2,250	* 22.39	** 50,378
HA-510—404.938(a); 416.1438(a)	4,000	1	2	133	* 22.39	** 2,978
Clamant Enhanced Outreach—Initial Call No Representative (Unrepresented Claimant/ProSe)	0	1	10	0	* 0	** 0
Clamant Enhanced Outreach—Initial Call with Representative	0	1	10	0	* 0	** 0
( print page 68360)
Clamant Enhanced Outreach—Follow Up Call—No Representative (Unrepresented Claimant/ProSe)	0	1	60	0	* 0	** 0
Clamant Enhanced Outreach—Follow Up Call—With Representative	0	1	30	0	* 0	** 0
Claimant Enhanced Outreach Call	75,190	1	30	37,500	* 22.39	839,625
Remote Hearing Options Letter and Form Mailed to Representative	0	1	10	0	* 0	** 0
Microsoft Teams Video Hearing Call Script—Representative Payee Outreach	0	1	20	0	* 0	** 0
Microsoft Teams Hearing Call Script—Claimant Outreach	0	1	20	0	* 0	** 0
Totals	2,492,500			833,634		** 19,504,692
* We based these figures on average DI hourly wages based on SSA's current FY 2024 SSI data ( ); average U.S. citizen's hourly salary, as reported by Bureau of Labor Statistics data ( ).
** This figure does not represent actual costs that SSA is imposing on recipients of Social Security payments to complete this application; rather, these are theoretical opportunity costs for the additional time respondents will spend to complete the application. .

SSA submitted an Information Collection Request under OMB No. 0960-0671 to OMB for the approval of the changes due to the final rule, which encompasses the revisions to these information collections.

As we have revised the associated burdens for the above-mentioned forms, and since we made revisions to the final rule which were not included at the NPRM stage, we are currently soliciting comment on the burden for the forms as shown in the charts above. If you would like to submit comments, please send them to:

Currently under Review—Open for Public Comments ( https://www.reginfo.gov/​public/​do/​PRAMain )  [ 61 ] and choosing to click on one of SSA's published items. Please reference Docket ID Number [SSA-2022-0013] in your submitted response.

Social Security Administration, OLCA, Attn: Reports Clearance Director, 3100 West High Rise, 6401 Security Blvd., Baltimore, MD 21235, Fax: 410-966-2830, Email address: [email protected] .

You can submit comments until September 25, 2024, which is 30 days after the publication of this notice. To receive a copy of the OMB clearance package, contact the SSA Reports Clearance Officer using any of the above contact methods. We prefer to receive comments by email or fax.

• Administrative practice and procedure
• Disability benefits
• Individuals with disabilities, and Social Security
• Social Security, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

The Commissioner of Social Security, Martin O'Malley, having reviewed and approved this document, is delegating the authority to electronically sign this document to Faye I. Lipsky, who is the primary Federal Register Liaison for SSA, for purposes of publication in the Federal Register .

Faye I. Lipsky,

Federal Register Liaison, Office of Legislation and Congressional Affairs, Social Security Administration.

For the reasons set out in the preamble, we amend 20 CFR chapter III , parts 404 and 416, as set forth below:

1. The authority citation for subpart J of part 404 continues to read as follows:

Authority: Secs. 201(j), 204(f), 205(a)-(b), (d)-(h), and (j), 221, 223(i), 225, and 702(a)(5) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 401(j) , 404(f) , 405(a)-(b) , (d)-(h), and (j), 421, 423(i), 425, and 902(a)(5)); sec. 5, Pub. L. 97-455, 96 Stat. 2500 ( 42 U.S.C. 405 note ); secs. 5, 6(c)-(e), and 15, Pub. L. 98-460, 98 Stat. 1802 ( 42 U.S.C. 421 note ); sec. 202, Pub. L. 108-203 , 118 Stat. 509 ( 42 U.S.C. 902 note ).

2. Revise § 404.929 to read as follows:

If you are dissatisfied with one of the determinations or decisions listed in § 404.930, you may request a hearing. Subject to § 404.956, the Deputy Commissioner for Hearings Operations, or their delegate, will appoint an administrative law judge to conduct the hearing. If circumstances warrant, the Deputy Commissioner for Hearings Operations, or their delegate, may assign your case to another administrative law judge. We will schedule you to appear by audio, agency video, online video, or in person as set forth in § 404.936. Audio means telephone or similar audio-based technology in a private location you choose. Agency video means video, with audio functionality, using our equipment in one of our offices. Online video means video, with audio functionality, using a personal electronic device in a private location you choose. When we determine your manner of appearance, we consider the factors described in § 404.936(c)(1)(i) through (ii). You may submit new evidence (subject to the provisions of § 404.935), examine the evidence used in making the determination or decision under review, and present and question witnesses. The administrative law judge who conducts the hearing may ask you questions. The administrative law judge will issue a decision based on the preponderance of the evidence in the hearing record. If you waive your right to appear at the hearing, the administrative law judge will make a decision based on the preponderance of the evidence that is in the file and, subject to the provisions of § 404.935, any new evidence that may have been submitted for consideration.

3. In § 404.936, revise the section heading and paragraphs (a) through (d), redesignate paragraphs (e) and (f) as paragraphs (f) and (g), and add a new paragraph (e).

The revisions and addition read as follows:

(a ) General. We set the time and manner(s) of appearance for any hearing. We will set the place of a hearing when we schedule you and any other parties to the hearing to appear in person or by agency video. We may change the time, manner(s) of appearance, or place, if it is necessary. After sending you reasonable notice of the proposed action, the administrative law judge may adjourn or postpone the hearing or reopen it to receive additional evidence any time before the administrative law judge notifies you of a hearing decision.

(b) Place of hearing. If we set the place of the hearing, it can be in the 50 States, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the United States Virgin Islands. The “place” of the hearing is the hearing office or other site(s) at which you and any other parties to the hearing are located when you make your appearance(s) before the administrative law judge by agency video or in person. A party to a hearing may only appear from the geographic areas, noted in this subsection, in which we hold hearings.

(c) Determining manner of appearance to schedule. We will schedule you or any other party to the hearing to appear by audio, agency video, online video, or in person. We may schedule you to appear by online video only if you agree to appear in that manner.

(1) When we determine your manner of appearance at the hearing, we consider the following factors:

(i) Which manner of appearance would be the most efficient for conducting the hearing; and

(ii) Any facts in your particular case that provide a good reason to schedule your appearance by audio, agency video, online video, or in person.

(2) We will generally direct any person we call as a witness, other than you or any other party to the hearing, to appear by audio, by agency video, or by online video. Witnesses include medical experts and vocational experts. Witnesses you call will appear at the hearing pursuant to § 404.950(e). If they are unable to appear with you in the same manner as you, we will generally direct them to appear by agency video or by audio. We will consider directing witnesses to appear in person only when:

(i) A witness is unable to appear by other available manners of appearance;

(ii) We determine that an alternate manner of appearance would be less efficient than conducting the appearance in person; or

(iii) We find that there are facts in your particular case that provide a good reason to schedule this individual's appearance in person.

(3) We follow the procedures set forth in § 404.937 to ensure the safety of the public and our employees in our hearing process.

(d) Objecting to appearing by audio, by agency video, or both. Prior to scheduling your hearing, we will notify you that we may schedule you to appear by audio or by agency video, or, if you agree, by online video. If you object to appearing by audio, by agency video, or both, you must notify us in writing within 30 days after the date you receive the notice. If you only object to appearing by audio, we may schedule you to appear in person, by agency video, or, if you agree, by online video. Similarly, if you only object to appearing by agency video, we may schedule you to appear in person, by audio, or, if you agree, by online video. If you object to appearing by both audio and agency video, and your residence does not change while your request for hearing is pending, we will schedule you to appear before the administrative law judge in person or, if you agree, by online video.

(1) If you notify us that you object to appearing by audio, by agency video, or both, more than 30 days after the date you receive our notice, we will extend the time period if you show you had good cause for missing the deadline. To determine whether good cause exists for extending the deadline, we use the standards explained in § 404.911.

(2) Notwithstanding any objections you may have to appearing by audio and subject to paragraph (d)(3) of this section, we will schedule you or any other party to the hearing to appear by audio when we cannot schedule you to appear by agency video or by online video and extraordinary circumstances prevent you from appearing in person. For audio appearances under this subsection, we will call you or any other party to the hearing using your or their telephone number(s).

(3) Notwithstanding any objections you may have to appearing by audio, if you are incarcerated and an appearance by agency video and online video is not available, we will schedule you to appear by audio, unless we find that there are facts in your particular case that provide a good reason to schedule you to appear in person, if allowed by the place of confinement, or by agency video, online video, or in person upon your release. For audio appearances under this subsection, we will call you or any other party to the hearing using your or their telephone number(s).

(4) Notwithstanding any objections you may have to appearing by audio, by agency video, or both, if you change your residence while your request for hearing is pending, we will determine how you will appear, including by audio or by agency video, as provided in paragraph (c) of this section. For us to consider your change of residence when we schedule your hearing, you must submit evidence verifying your new residence. For audio appearances under this subsection, we will call you or any other party to the hearing using your or their telephone number(s).

(5) Notwithstanding any objection you may have to appearing by audio, we will schedule you or any other party to the hearing to appear by audio in the circumstances provided in § 404.937(b)(2)(ii) and (c). For audio appearances under this subsection, we will call you or any other party to the hearing using your or their telephone number(s).

(e) Time period to agree to an appearance by online video. Prior to scheduling your hearing, we will notify you that we may schedule you to appear by online video if you agree to appear in that manner. To agree to appear by online video, you must notify us in writing within 30 days after the date you receive the notice. If you notify us that you agree to appearing by online video more than 30 days after the date you receive our notice, we will extend the time period if you show you had good cause for missing the deadline. To determine whether good cause exists for extending the deadline, we use the standards explained in § 404.911. You may withdraw your agreement any time before the start of your hearing.

4. In § 404.937, revise paragraphs (b)(2)(ii) and (c) and add paragraph (e) to read as follows:

(ii) Require that the hearing be conducted by audio, notwithstanding any objection to appearing by audio, or, if the claimant agrees, by online video.

(c) If we have banned a claimant from any of our facilities, we will provide the claimant with the opportunity for a hearing that will be conducted by audio, notwithstanding any objection to ( print page 68362) appearing by audio, or, if the claimant agrees, by online video.

(e) For audio appearances under this section, we will call you or any other party to the hearing using your or their telephone number(s).

5. In § 404.938, revise paragraph (b)(5) to read as follows:

(5) The time and manner(s) in which you, or any other party or witness, will appear. If we schedule you to appear in person or by agency video, as set forth in § 404.936, the notice of hearing will tell you the place of the hearing.

6. Revise § 404.944 to read as follows:

A hearing is open to the parties and to other persons the administrative law judge considers necessary and proper. At the hearing, the administrative law judge looks fully into the issues, questions you and the other witnesses, and, subject to the provisions of § 404.935, accepts as evidence any documents that are material to the issues; may stop the hearing temporarily and continue it at a later date if the administrative law judge finds that there is material evidence missing at the hearing or one or more variables outside of our control, such as audio quality or video quality, materially affects the hearing; and may reopen the hearing at any time before the administrative law judge mails a notice of the decision in order to receive new and material evidence. For purposes of this section, materially affects means prevents the hearing from proceeding. The administrative law judge may decide when the evidence will be presented and when the issues will be discussed.

7. In § 404.950, revise paragraph (a) and the second and third sentences in paragraph (e) to read as follows:

(a) The right to appear and present evidence. Any party to a hearing has a right to appear before the administrative law judge, in the manner set forth in § 404.936, to present evidence and to state their position. A party may also make their appearance by means of a designated representative, who may make their appearance in the manner set forth in § 404.936.

(e) * * * If they are unable to appear with you in the same manner as you, they may appear as prescribed in § 404.936(c)(2). Witnesses called by the administrative law judge will appear in the manner prescribed in § 404.936(c)(2). * * *

8. In § 404.976, revise paragraph (c) to read as follows:

(c) Oral argument. You may request to appear before the Appeals Council to present oral argument in support of your request for review. The Appeals Council will grant your request if it decides that your case raises an important question of law or policy or that oral argument would help to reach a proper decision. If your request to appear is granted, the Appeals Council will tell you the time and place of the oral argument at least 10 business days before the scheduled date. The Appeals Council will determine whether your appearance will be by audio, agency video, online video, or in person as set forth in § 404.936. The Appeals Council will determine whether any other person relevant to the proceeding will appear by audio, agency video, online video, or in person as set forth in § 404.936(c)(2).

9. The authority citation for subpart N of part 416 continues to read as follows:

Authority: Secs. 702(a)(5), 1631, and 1633 of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 902(a)(5) , 1383 , and 1383b ); sec. 202, Pub. L. 108-203 , 118 Stat. 509 ( 42 U.S.C. 902 note ).

10. Revise § 416.1429 to read as follows:

If you are dissatisfied with one of the determinations or decisions listed in § 416.1430, you may request a hearing. Subject to § 416.1456, the Deputy Commissioner for Hearings Operations, or their delegate, will appoint an administrative law judge to conduct the hearing. If circumstances warrant, the Deputy Commissioner for Hearings Operations, or their delegate, may assign your case to another administrative law judge. We will schedule you to appear by audio, agency video, online video, or in person as set forth in § 416.1436. Audio means telephone or similar audio-based technology in a private location you choose. Agency video means video, with audio functionality, using our equipment in one of our offices. Online video means video, with audio functionality, using a personal electronic device in a private location you choose. When we determine your manner of appearance, we consider the factors described in § 416.1436 (c)(1)(i) through (ii). You may submit new evidence (subject to the provisions of § 416.1435), examine the evidence used in making the determination or decision under review, and present and question witnesses. The administrative law judge who conducts the hearing may ask you questions. The administrative law judge will issue a decision based on the preponderance of the evidence in the hearing record. If you waive your right to appear at the hearing, the administrative law judge will make a decision based on the preponderance of the evidence that is in the file and, subject to the provisions of § 416.1435, any new evidence that may have been submitted for consideration.

11. In § 416.1436, revise the section heading and paragraphs (a) through (d), redesignate paragraphs (e) and (f) as paragraphs (f) and (g), and add a new paragraph (e).

(b) Place of hearing. If we set the place of the hearing, it can be in the 50 States, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the United States Virgin Islands. The “place” of the hearing is the hearing office or other site(s) at which you and any other parties to the hearing are located when you make your appearance(s) before the administrative law judge by agency video or in person. A party to a hearing ( print page 68363) may only appear from the geographic areas, noted in this subsection, in which we hold hearings.

(2) We will generally direct any person we call as a witness, other than you or any other party to the hearing, to appear by audio, by agency video, or by online video. Witnesses include medical experts and vocational experts. Witnesses you call will appear at the hearing pursuant to § 416.1450(e). If they are unable to appear with you in the same manner as you, we will generally direct them to appear by agency video or by audio. We will consider directing witnesses to appear in person only when:

(3) We follow the procedures set forth in § 416.1437 to ensure the safety of the public and our employees in our hearing process.

(1) If you notify us that you object to appearing by audio, by agency video, or both, more than 30 days after the date you receive our notice, we will extend the time period if you show you had good cause for missing the deadline. To determine whether good cause exists for extending the deadline, we use the standards explained in § 416.1411.

(5) Notwithstanding any objection you may have to appearing by audio, we will schedule you or any other party to the hearing to appear by audio in the circumstances provided in § 416.1437(b)(2)(ii) and (c). For audio appearances under this subsection, we will call you or any other party to the hearing using your or their telephone number(s).

(e) Time period to agree to an appearance by online video. Prior to scheduling your hearing, we will notify you that we may schedule you to appear by online video if you agree to appear in that manner. To agree to appear by online video, you must notify us in writing within 30 days after the date you receive the notice. If you notify us that you agree to appearing by online video more than 30 days after the date you receive our notice, we will extend the time period if you show you had good cause for missing the deadline. To determine whether good cause exists for extending the deadline, we use the standards explained in § 416.1411. You may withdraw your agreement any time before the start of your hearing.

12. In § 416.1437, revise paragraphs (b)(2)(ii) and (c) and add paragraph (e) to read as follows:

(c) If we have banned a claimant from any of our facilities, we will provide the claimant with the opportunity for a hearing that will be conducted by audio, notwithstanding any objection to appearing by audio, or, if the claimant agrees, by online video.

13. In § 416.1438, revise paragraph (b)(5) to read as follows:

(5) The time and manner(s) in which you, or any other party or witness, will appear. If we schedule you to appear in person or by agency video, as set forth in § 416.1436, the notice of hearing will tell you the place of the hearing.

14. Revise § 416.1444 to read as follows:

A hearing is open to the parties and to other persons the administrative law judge considers necessary and proper. At the hearing, the administrative law judge looks fully into the issues, questions you and the other witnesses, ( print page 68364) and, subject to the provisions of § 416.1435, accepts as evidence any documents that are material to the issues; may stop the hearing temporarily and continue it at a later date if the administrative law judge finds that there is material evidence missing at the hearing or one or more variables outside of our control, such as audio quality or video quality, materially affects the hearing; and may reopen the hearing at any time before the administrative law judge mails a notice of the decision in order to receive new and material evidence. For purposes of this section, materially affects means prevents the hearing from proceeding. The administrative law judge may decide when the evidence will be presented and when the issues will be discussed.

15. In § 416.1450, revise paragraph (a) and the second and third sentences in paragraph (e) to read as follows:

(a) The right to appear and present evidence. Any party to a hearing has a right to appear before the administrative law judge, in the manner set forth in § 416.1436, to present evidence and to state their position. A party may also make their appearance by means of a designated representative, who may make their appearance in the manner set forth in § 416.1436.

(e) * * * If they are unable to appear with you in the same manner as you, they may appear as prescribed in § 416.1436(c)(2). Witnesses called by the administrative law judge will appear in the manner prescribed in § 416.1436(c)(2). * * *

16. In § 416.1476, revise paragraph (c) to read as follows:

(c) Oral argument. You may request to appear before the Appeals Council to present oral argument in support of your request for review. The Appeals Council will grant your request if it decides that your case raises an important question of law or policy or that oral argument would help to reach a proper decision. If your request to appear is granted, the Appeals Council will tell you the time and place of the oral argument at least 10 business days before the scheduled date. The Appeals Council will determine whether your appearance will be by audio, agency video, online video, or in person as set forth in § 416.1436. The Appeals Council will determine whether any other person relevant to the proceeding will appear by audio, agency video, online video, or in person as set forth in § 416.1436(c)(2).

1.   88 FR 32145 .

2.  The preamble to the NPRM is available for public viewing at https://www.regulations.gov and searching for document “SSA-2022-0013” or https://www.federalregister.gov/​documents/​2023/​05/​19/​2023-10564/​setting-the-manner-of-appearance-of-parties-and-witnesses-at-hearings .

3.   20 CFR 404.900(a) and 416.1400(a) .

4.  Under 20 CFR 404.956(a) and 416.1456(a) , the Appeals Council may assume responsibility for a hearing request(s) pending at the hearing level of our administrative review process.

5.  We have traditionally used the term VTC to refer to an appearance by video using our equipment or equipment that we approve in a Field Office or other pre-approved site.

6.   20 CFR 404.936(c)(2)-(3) ; 404.937(b)(2) , (c) ; 416.1436(c)(2)-(3) ; and 416.1437(b)(2) , (c) .

7.  We began offering appearances at hearings by telephone in March 2020 and by online video in December 2020. Currently, we conduct online video appearances using a software application called “Microsoft Teams.” For more information, see https://www.ssa.gov/​appeals/​hearing_​video.html .

8.  88 FR at 32146.

9.  We will generally direct anyone we call as a witness to appear by audio, agency video, or online video. A witness called by the claimant, like our previous policy, will generally appear in the same manner as the claimant, unless the witness is unable to do so. If the witness is unable to appear in the same manner as the claimant, we will generally direct the witness to appear by audio or agency video.

10.  See 20 CFR 404.936(d)(2) through (5) ; 404.937(b)(2) , (c) ; 416.1436(d)(2) through (5) ; 416.1437(b)(2) , (c) .

11.  See 404.936(d)(1), (e) and 416.1436(d)(1), (e).

12.  Agency video includes agency-approved sites and video equipment under the Representative Video Project (RVP). For more information on the Representative Video Project, see Chief Judge Bulletin (CJB) 11-04 and https://www.ssa.gov/​appeals/​documents/​Representative_​Video_​Project_​RVP-508.pdf .

13.  Under 20 CFR 404.936(c)(1)(ii) and 416.1436(c)(1)(ii) of this final rule, we consider two factors in deciding which manner of appearance to schedule: (1) which manner would be most efficient for conducting the hearing, and (2) any facts in the particular case that provide a good reason to schedule a certain manner of appearance.

14.  If a claimant objects to an appearance by audio or agency video and does not agree to appear by online video, we will generally schedule the claimant to appear in person. Otherwise, we will determine the manner of appearance from among in person and the options to which the claimant agreed and/or did not object.

15.  See 20 CFR 404.936(d)(2)-(5) and 416.1436(d)(2)-(5) .

16.  See 20 CFR 404.936(d)(2) through (5) , 404.937(b)(2) , 404.937(c) , 416.1436(d)(2) through (5) , 416.1437(b)(2) , and 416.1437(c) .

17.  While a small percentage, we have continued to schedule claimants to appear by VTC even after the implementation of online video appearances. Since we began reopening our offices to the public in March 2022 following an initial closure during the COVID-19 national public health emergency, we have held approximately 1.5 percent of our hearings by VTC. See the Setting the Manner of Appearance of Parties and Witnesses at Hearings, Final Rule, Supporting Data Document, available at https://www.regulations.gov as a supporting document for Docket SSA-2022-0013.

18.  VTC appearances allow the claimant to see and hear the ALJ on a television screen over our secure network. For example, with our current systems, we transmit in Standard Definition on 50 to 65 inch monitors in hearing rooms or 27 inch monitors in VTC locations using desktop video units.

19.   20 CFR 404.938 and 416.1438 .

20.  See Setting the Manner of Appearance of Parties and Witnesses at Hearings, NPRM, Supporting Data Document, available at https://www.regulations.gov as a supporting document for Docket SSA-2022-0013.

21.  Our Equity Plan is available at: https://www.ssa.gov/​open/​materials/​SSA-E.O.-13985-Equity-Action-Plan.pdf .

22.  See Richardson v. Perales, 402 U.S. 389, 399 (1971).

23.  For more information on iAppeals, see our Program Operations Manual System (POMS) GN 03101.125 available at https://secure.ssa.gov/​poms.nsf/​lnx/​0203101125 .

24.  See 404.936(d)(1) and 416.1436(d)(1).

25.  We may schedule a claimant to appear in another manner when the claimant changes their residence, extraordinary circumstances prevent the claimant from appearing in person, the claimant is incarcerated, or it is necessary to ensure the safety of the public and our employees in our hearing process. See 20 CFR 404.936(d)(2) through (5) ; 404.937(b)(2) , (c) , 416.1436(d)(2) through (5) ; and 416.1437(b)(2) , (c) .

26.  HALLEX I-2-0-8 available at https://www.ssa.gov/​OP_​Home/​hallex/​I-02/​I-2-0-8.html .

27.  See 20 CFR 404.944 and 416.1444 .

28.  See the Manner of Appearance, NPRM, Supporting Data Document, available at https://www.regulations.gov as a supporting document for Docket SSA-2022-0013.

29.   20 CFR 404.938(d) and 416.1438(d) .

30.  See the Setting the Manner of Appearance of Parties and Witnesses at Hearings, Final Rule, Supporting Data Document, available at https://www.regulations.gov as a supporting document for Docket SSA-2022-0013.

31.  See the Setting the Manner of Appearance of Parties and Witnesses at Hearings, Final Rule, Supporting Data Document, available at https://www.regulations.gov as a supporting document for Docket SSA-2022-0013.

32.   20 CFR 404.938 and 416.1438 .

33.  The commenter cited 20 CFR 404.911 .

34.   20 CFR 404.938 and 416.1438 .

35.  Our regulations provide examples of good cause for missing a deadline in 20 CFR 404.911 and 416.1411 . Also, in the NPRM, we proposed to include examples of some circumstances that would apply specifically to online video appearances: “Examples of good cause would include circumstances where the claimant disagrees with the terms of service for a third-party application or lacks the resources to appear by video.” See 88 FR 32148 , 32152 , and 32153 (May 19, 2023). We removed the NPRM examples from this final rule.

36.  In 2014, we added the provision that we would evaluate good cause for untimely VTC objections using the standards in 20 CFR 404.911 and 416.1411 . 79 FR 35926 .

37.  See 79 FR 35926 .

38.  We set forth good cause provisions in 20 CFR 404.911 and 416.1411 in 1980, and we amended them to their current form in 1994.

39.  In limited circumstances, we may not schedule the claimant to appear in person, see 20 CFR 404.936(d)(2)-(5) ; 404.937(b)(2) , (c) ; 416.1436(d)(2)-(5) ; and 416.1437(b)(2) , (c) .

40.  See the Setting the Manner of Appearance of Parties and Witnesses at Hearings, NPRM, Supporting Data Document, available at https://www.regulations.gov as a supporting document for Docket SSA-2022-0013.

41.  See the Setting the Manner of Appearance of Parties and Witnesses at Hearings, Final Rule, Supporting Data Document, available at https://www.regulations.gov as a supporting document for Docket SSA-2022-0013.

42.  From July 2021 through July 2022, we sent surveys to claimants who appeared at hearings by online video to gauge their satisfaction with the process. We asked them to rate four statements regarding their online video experience on a scale from 1 to 5, where 1 meant “strongly disagree” and 5 meant “strongly agree.” The four statements were: (1) the instructions sent in advance were helpful; (2) it was easy to connect to my online video hearing; (3) I was satisfied with the audio quality of my online video hearing; and (4) I was satisfied with the video quality of my online video hearing. The overall satisfaction score was 4.2 or higher, and 83 percent or more of respondents in each month reported an overall satisfaction rate of a 4 or 5. See the Setting the Manner of Appearance of Parties and Witnesses at Hearings, NPRM, Supporting Data Document, available at https://www.regulations.gov as a supporting document for Docket SSA-2022-0013.

43.  See 20 CFR 404.1529(c)(3) and 416.929(c)(3) and Social Security Ruling (SSR) 16-3p.

44.  The commenter cited Frank M. Walsh; Edward M. Walsh, Effective Processing or Assembly-Line Justice—The Use of Teleconferencing in Asylum Removal Hearings, 22 Geo. Immigr. L.J. 259, 275 (2008).

45.  See 20 CFR 404.936(d)(2) and 416.1436(d)(2) . Under this final rule, we may also schedule a claimant to appear by audio, despite a timely objection to appearing in that manner, as set forth in 20 CFR 404.936(d)(3)-(d)(5) , 404.937(b)(2) , 404.937(c) , 416.1436(d)(3)-(d)(5) , 416.1437(b)(2) , and 416.1437(c) .

46.  The article the commenter cited regards the use of video conferencing in asylum removal hearings. See Walsh & Walsh, supra note 43.

47.  See Johanna Selberg, Truth and Trauma: Exploring the Merits of Non-Adversarial Asylum Hearings, 35 Geo. Immigr. L.J. 929, 932 (2021) (describing defensive, adversarial asylum proceedings before an immigration judge); 20 CFR 404.900(b) , 416.1400(b) (explaining that we conduct our administrative review process in an informal, non-adversarial manner).

48.  Walsh & Walsh, supra note 43, at 273.

49.  See, e.g., Miller v. Att'y Gen. of U.S., 397 F. App'x 780, 783 (3d Cir. 2010) (finding that the petitioner did not show that use of video conferencing prevented the immigration judge from properly considering the record or testimony, and noting there was no basis to conclude that the immigration judge's ruling would have been different if the petitioner had appeared in person); Rapheal v. Mukasey, 533 F.3d 521, 531 (7th Cir. 2008) (“No court has ever held that Congress has violated the due process clause by authorizing removal hearings to proceed via video conference.”); Rusu v. U.S. I.N.S., 296 F.3d 316, 322-24 (4th Cir. 2002) (noting the potential negative impacts of video conferencing, but finding that the petitioner appeared to have a meaningful opportunity to be heard).

50.   20 CFR 404.957(b) and 416.1457(b) .

51.  See SSR 79-19, available at https://www.ssa.gov/​OP_​Home/​rulings/​oasi/​33/​SSR79-19-oasi-33.html .

52.   20 CFR 404.948(b)(1)(i) and 416.1448(b)(1)(i) .

53.  Under our current rules, we generally will not schedule a claimant to appear by VTC if the claimant timely objected to appearing in that manner. 20 CFR 404.936(d) and 416.1436(d) .

54.   20 CFR 404.985 and 416.1485 and SSR 96-1p, available at https://www.ssa.gov/​OP_​Home/​rulings/​di/​10/​SSR96-01-di-10.html .

55.  See the Manner of Appearance, NPRM, Supporting Data Document, available at https://www.regulations.gov as a supporting document for Docket SSA-2022-0013.

56.  See HALLEX I-2-3-10 B.1 available at https://www.ssa.gov/​OP_​Home/​hallex/​I-02/​I-2-3-10.html (“Regardless of a claimant's manner of appearance at the hearing, the [ALJ] must inquire fully into all matters at issue and conduct the hearing in a fair and impartial manner.”).

57.  See SSR 13-1p available at https://www.ssa.gov/​OP_​Home/​rulings/​oasi/​33/​SSR2013-01-oasi-33.html and HALLEX I-1-8-4 available at https://www.ssa.gov/​OP_​Home/​hallex/​I-01/​I-1-8-4.html and I-3-3-2 available at https://www.ssa.gov/​OP_​Home/​hallex/​I-03/​I-3-3-2.html .

58.  See 20 CFR 404.936(d)(2)-(5) ; 404.937(b)(2) , (c) ; 416.1436(d)(2)-(5) ; and 416.1437(b)(2) , (c) .

59.  Commenters likely referred to Remote Hearing Agreement Form (OMB control no. 0960-0671), available at: https://www.ssa.gov/​appeals/​documents/​RemoteHearingAgreementForm_​RepresentedClaimantandRepresentative.pdf .

60.   5 U.S.C. 801 et seq.

61.  Please note that the link to the specific ICR connected to this regulation will only become active the day after the final rule publishes in the Federal Register .

[ FR Doc. 2024-18591 Filed 8-23-24; 8:45 am]

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