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Virtual Patient Observer Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Veterans Health Administration

Dental Hygienist

Columbia, SC · On-site +1

$74K - $96K/yr

... observation of the actual care provided. B. Patient Care * Sets up operatory for planned dental ... Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement # : 59265F Relocation ...

VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION

Dental Hygienist

Columbia, SC · On-site

$31 - $40.75/hr

... observation of the actual care provided. B. Patient Care * Sets up operatory for planned dental ... Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement # : 59265F Relocation ...

SouthernMED

Medical Office Specialist

Lexington, SC · On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

... patient accounts. These duties are performed in accordance with federal, state and local ... Access to Virtual Health & Wellness What a day looks like as a Medical Office Specialist * Job ...

SouthernMED

Medical Office Specialist

Lexington, SC · On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

... patient accounts. These duties are performed in accordance with federal, state and local ... Access to Virtual Health & Wellness What a day looks like as a Medical Office Specialist * Job ...

All JobsPatient Observer JobsVirtual Patient Observer JobsVirtual Patient Observer Jobs in Columbia, SC

Virtual Patient Observer information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$10

$15

$19

How much do virtual patient observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for virtual patient observer in Columbia, SC is $15.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $16.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a virtual patient observer?

A Virtual Patient Observer is a healthcare worker who monitors patients remotely, usually through cameras and audio systems, to ensure their safety and well-being. Their primary responsibility is to watch for signs of distress, falls, or other safety concerns and alert on-site staff if immediate assistance is needed. This role helps prevent accidents and provides an extra layer of supervision in hospital settings, especially for patients at high risk of injury. Virtual Patient Observers play an important part in improving patient outcomes and supporting hospital staff.

How does a virtual patient observer typically collaborate with on-site healthcare staff during their shift?

A Virtual Patient Observer works remotely to monitor patients via video feeds and communicates directly with on-site nurses and care teams when safety concerns arise. Effective collaboration involves promptly reporting patient behaviors such as potential falls, wandering, or removal of medical devices, and maintaining clear, concise documentation of incidents. The observer is part of a broader patient safety strategy and regularly participates in handoff reports, shift briefings, and feedback sessions to ensure seamless care. Building trust and communication channels with the on-site staff is essential for timely interventions and optimal patient outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a virtual patient observer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Virtual Patient Observer, you need sharp observational skills, attention to detail, and basic healthcare knowledge, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with remote monitoring systems, video surveillance tools, and secure communication platforms is typically required. Strong communication, critical thinking, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure patient safety, quick response to emergencies, and effective collaboration with clinical staff in a remote monitoring environment.

What is the difference between Virtual Patient Observer vs Patient Monitor?

AspectVirtual Patient ObserverPatient Monitor
CredentialsBasic healthcare training, certification in patient monitoringMedical device training, certification in patient monitoring systems
Work EnvironmentRemote or hospital setting, monitoring patients via video or softwareHospital, clinic, or healthcare facility, monitoring vital signs via devices
Employer & IndustryHospitals, telehealth companies, healthcare providersHospitals, clinics, medical device companies
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The Virtual Patient Observer primarily monitors patients remotely through video or software, focusing on visual assessments and alerts. In contrast, a Patient Monitor uses medical devices to track vital signs directly. Both roles require healthcare knowledge and certification but differ in their tools and work settings. Understanding these differences helps healthcare providers and job seekers identify the right role based on skills and environment preferences.

What are popular job titles related to Virtual Patient Observer jobs in Columbia, SC?

For Virtual Patient Observer jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Virtual Patient Observer jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Virtual Patient Observer jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Virtual Patient Observer jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Virtual Patient Observer job openings:

Virtual Patient Observer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Virtual Patient Observer job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,161 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Dental Hygienist

US Department of Veterans Affairs

Columbia, SC • On-site

$31 - $40.75/hr

Other

Posted 19 days ago

U.S. Department Of Veterans Affairs rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 672 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 295 rated public sector bodies

Job description

Dental Hygienist Duties

The Dental Hygienist provides direct patient care under the general supervision of the dentist and performs other clinical and clerical functions independently of direct supervision. It is expected that they provide direct patient care and receive guidance from higher-level or supervisory staff members for only the most complex patients. Duties include but not limited to:

A. Customer Service/Veteran-Centered Care

  • Assists customers with questions or concerns, provides service recovery.
  • Delivers care that reflects the Veteran's and the family's personal goals, personal preferences, and freedom of choice.
  • Demonstrates knowledge and application of patient and family-centered care in written care plans, instructions to patients, and in observation of the actual care provided.

B. Patient Care

  • Sets up operatory for planned dental procedure and cleans dental unit for timely turnover.
  • Complies with patient identification, time-out, and reusable medical equipment processes.
  • Takes and records vital signs, reviews medical history and charts oral conditions.
  • Assesses patient's medical, dental, anxiety/phobias, medications, and comorbidities.
  • Cleans dental prostheses, fixed and removable.

C. Patient Education

  • Provides patient education appropriate to the Veteran's needs and oral condition.
  • Explains hygiene procedures, indications, complications and expected outcomes to individual patient and caregiver.
  • Prepares and provides education on periodontal disease, wellness, health maintenance, oral hygiene practices, parafunctional habits, and effect of illness, addictions, medications, and tobacco on the oral cavity.

D. Dental Imaging

  • Takes diagnostic quality images that are accurately oriented and exposed.
  • Utilizes dental-imaging safety techniques with minimal retakes.

E. Infection control and Equipment Sterilization

  • Demonstrates proper infection-control procedures in setting up and cleaning up operatory and in exposing images.
  • Properly prepares instruments for sterilization by SPS standards.
  • Prepares instruments in a manner that does not delay clinical care.

F. Clerical Functions

  • Assists patients in scheduling appointments.
  • Assists in filling gaps in the schedule due to late cancellations and failed appointments.

G. Information Management

  • Maintains patient confidentiality per HIPAA with written and verbal information.
  • Follows computer security regulations.

H. Patient Safety

  • Modifies care as appropriate for patient's age and abilities (patient transfer and position).
  • Modifies care based on patient's medical, dental, anxiety/phobias, medications, and comorbidities.
  • Provides accurate and understandable instructions to patients.

I. Employee Education

  • Complies with Employee Education requirements.
  • Completes mandatory annual training sessions.
  • Maintains all continuing education requirements for professional licensure, certifications, etc.

Work Schedule: 7:30am-4:00pm (Intermittent, 2-3 Saturdays per month)

Telework: Not Available

Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Functional Statement #: 59265F

Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized

Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized

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