Medical Assistants typically perform both clinical and administrative tasks that keep the offices of physicians and other health care practitioners running smoothly. The exact duties of medical assistants will vary by employer, depending upon the specialty of the practitioner, and the location & size of the practice. Administrative office responsibilities may consist of handling insurance forms, billing and bookkeeping; updating and filing medical records; scheduling appointments and arranging for hospital admissions; and more. Clinical duties will vary according to State law. They may range from taking medical histories and vital signs, to collection of laboratory specimens, to providing basic patient instructions, and all such duties are generally under the supervision of a licensed health care provider.