MEDICAL FRONT OFFICE RECEPTIONIST Shireen V Guide M D IncMEDICAL FRONT OFFICE RECEPTIONISTRancho Santa Margarita, CAWe require experience in all aspects of patient care coordination, including busy phones, check-in/check-out, insurance verification, registration, some medical billing codes; managed care transactions, scheduling and other tasks and procedures performed in the front office. The Medical Receptionist will work at our main facility in the city of Rancho Santa Margarita, or at our San Clemente location.
Now Hiring: Bilingual Medical Assistant / Medical Office Receptionist (Mon–Fri, 9AM–5PM) BrightStar Care of Rancho CucamongaNow Hiring: Bilingual Medical Assistant / Medical Office Receptionist (Mon–Fri, 9AM–5PM)Rancho Cucamonga, CAFull timeFamiliarity with email communication, phone systems (e.g., Vonage), and medical software (e.g., Advantage) is preferred (training available). Able to collaborate and work effectively with diverse personalities, including patients, providers, and team members.
Medical Assistant- Front Office 26-00214 Alura Workforce SolutionsMedical Assistant- Front Office 26-00214Mission Viejo, CA$20–$22 / hourThis team of skilled general, vascular, and trauma surgeons has performed tens of thousands of surgeries and holds surgical privileges at some of the area's top hospitals and outpatient surgical centers. This role is ideal for someone who takes pride in creating a calm, organized, and welcoming environment in a fast-paced surgical office.
EXPERIENCED MEDICAL FRONT OFFICE Shireen V Guide M D IncEXPERIENCED MEDICAL FRONT OFFICERancho Santa Margarita, CAFULL TIME ***EXPERIENCED MEDICAL FRONT OFFICE RECEPTIONIST to work at our multi-location dermatology practice. Call Monica at (714)803-9555 for immediate consideration.
Medical Office Receptionist LifeStance HealthMedical Office ReceptionistRiverside, CaliforniaGeneral office duties, cleanliness, and appeal, such as sorting office mail, scanning documents, e-faxes, shared office email and office upkeep, to ensure the practice is running smoothly and prepared for patients and clinicians. Provide exceptional customer service, responding quickly and appropriately to patient needs, and being prepared to manage potentially difficult or sensitive situations by following Crisis and De-escalation Processes.
Medical Front Office - Patient Service Specialist Select Physical TherapyMedical Front Office - Patient Service SpecialistIrvine, California$21–$23 / hourThe front desk is your station to be a patient advocate, communicate with individuals via email and phone, manage patient payments and utilize multiple computer programs. Looking for a friendly and outgoing person to perform front office duties and be the first point of contact for patients needing Physical Therapy services.
Medical Front Office Patient Service Specialist Select Medical CorpMedical Front Office Patient Service SpecialistIrvine, CA$21–$23 / hourThe front desk is your station to be a patient advocate, communicate with individuals via email and phone, manage patient payments and utilize multiple computer programs. Looking for a friendly and outgoing person to perform front office duties and be the first point of contact for patients needing Physical Therapy services.
Medical Front Office Allergy and Asthma Associates of Southern CaliforniaMedical Front OfficeLaguna Niguel, CAThe ideal candidate will bring strong front desk experience, excellent communication skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment while providing concierge-level service to our patients. Schedule patient appointments, including new consultations, follow-ups, and allergy testing visits.
Front Office Medical Assistant Argus Medical Management, LLCFront Office Medical AssistantCorona, CA$23–$25 / hourFull timeThis role also involves handling patient inquiries, coordinating with clinical staff, managing medical records requests, and maintaining HIPAA compliance while contributing to an organized, efficient, and patient-focused front office environment. Our network includes over 250+ physicians in over 100+ clinics throughout the greater Long Beach, Los Angeles, Orange County, and Inland Empire areas.
Front Office Medical Assistant (Bilingual English/Spanish) Ultimate Staffing ServicesFront Office Medical Assistant (Bilingual English/Spanish)Orange, California$24–$25Multitasking & Time Management: Handle multiple tasks efficiently, including patient flow, administrative documentation, and scheduling demands, while prioritizing quality and accuracy. Key Responsibilities: Front Office Duties: Handle patient check-ins and check-outs, schedule appointments and cases, and manage phone calls with a professional and courteous demeanor.
Medical Office Supervisor Argus Medical Management, LLCMedical Office SupervisorNewport Beach, CA$22–$26 / hourFull timeNewport Children's Medical Group provides expert, compassionate pediatric care for children of all ages, from newborns to adolescents, at its locations in Newport Beach, Irvine, Costa Mesa, and Laguna Beach. Reviews and approves/disapproves all accounts payable invoices for payment in order to ensure accurate payments are sent to the vendors.
Urology Medical Assistant - Front and Back Office Alfred A Sidhom M D IncUrology Medical Assistant - Front and Back OfficeAnaheim, CARooming patients, assisting during examination and procedures, preparing and cleaning treatment rooms and medical instruments. Back/Front Office Medical Assistant with Urology experience needed for busy Urology office located in Anaheim.
Medical Office Coordinator & Billing Liaison Ultimate Staffing ServicesMedical Office Coordinator & Billing LiaisonFullerton, California$24–$25If you have outstanding organizational skills, enjoy multitasking, and possess a passion for delivering top-tier customer service, this role is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the success of our team and the satisfaction of our patients. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, providing exceptional patient service while ensuring the smooth coordination of billing processes and administrative functions.
Float Medical Assistant (Front/Back Office) Astrana Health IncFloat Medical Assistant (Front/Back Office)Anaheim, CAWe are currently seeking a highly motivated Medical Assistant to assist our medical providers at our family/internal medicine clinics across Orange County. This role will report to our Medical Office Manager/Site Administrator and enable us to continue to scale in the healthcare industry.
Front Office Medical Assistant UYEN JACKIE NGUYEN M D INCFront Office Medical AssistantHUNTINGTON BEACH, CAYou will perform routine administrative and clinical assignments to keep the medical facility running smoothly. Check patients in and collect copays, coinsurances, or deductibles.
Front Office Medical Assistant - 26-00179 Alura Workforce SolutionsFront Office Medical Assistant - 26-00179Irvine, CA$19–$21 / hourWe are seeking a friendly, organized, and customer-focused Front Office Assistant to support daily operations within a busy healthcare practice. The ideal candidate will serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing exceptional service while ensuring efficient front office operations.
Float Medical Assistant (Front/Back Office) Astrana Health, Inc.Float Medical Assistant (Front/Back Office)CA, California$20–$25 / hourEscort patients to exam rooms, interview patients, measure vital signs, including weight, blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and document all information in the patient's chart. Euclid Street, Anaheim, CA 92801 (home office); 500 S. Anaheim Hills Road, Suite 230, Anaheim, CA 92807; and 801 N.
NewBilingual Medical Assistant - Front Office/Full Time (Riverside) ConcentraBilingual Medical Assistant - Front Office/Full Time (Riverside)Riverside, California$23–$25.59 / hourResponsibilities: - Our Medical Assistant greet our patients, obtain their medical histories and verify patient information - Prepares patients for physical examinations, including taking vital signs and performing all required testing - Provide assistance during examinations and treatment - Perform ancillary testing and tasks as directed by the Center Medical Director (including but not limited to PFT, EKG, injections, audiograms, blood draws, etc.) and as certified - Performs DOT and Non-DOT drug and alcohol testing - In addition to Medical Assistant duties, you will be cross trained to perform Front Office duties including greeting patients, obtaining authorization, check in/out, communication of wait times, etc. Qualifications: - High school graduate or equivalent - Graduate of an accredited Medical Assistant program, training as a medical assistant, or military medical specialist with current credentials in the state of employment - Ability to work effectively in a dynamic, clinical office environment - Certified Medical Assistant (CMA, RMA) preferred but not required - Prefer applicants who are conversationally fluent, can read and write in both English and Spanish This job requires access to confidential and sensitive information, requiring ongoing discretion and secure information management.
NewBilingual Medical Assistant Front Office/Full Time (Riverside) Concentra Inc.Bilingual Medical Assistant Front Office/Full Time (Riverside)Riverside, CA$23–$25.59 / hourOur Medical Assistant greet our patients, obtain their medical histories and verify patient information - Prepares patients for physical examinations, including taking vital signs and performing all required testing - Provide assistance during examinations and treatment - Perform ancillary testing and tasks as directed by the Center Medical Director (including but not limited to PFT, EKG, injections, audiograms, blood draws, etc.) and as certified - Performs DOT and Non-DOT drug and alcohol testing - In addition to Medical Assistant duties, you will be cross trained to perform Front Office duties including greeting patients, obtaining authorization, check in/out, communication of wait times, etc. High school graduate or equivalent - Graduate of an accredited Medical Assistant program, training as a medical assistant, or military medical specialist with current credentials in the state of employment - Ability to work effectively in a dynamic, clinical office environment - Certified Medical Assistant (CMA, RMA) preferred but not required - Prefer applicants who are conversationally fluent, can read and write in both English and Spanish This job requires access to confidential and sensitive information, requiring ongoing discretion and secure information management.
Back-end Medical Office Staff NakedMDBack-end Medical Office StaffNewport Beach, CA$20–$28We’re looking for individuals ready to build a rewarding career in aesthetics — ones who lead with integrity, serve with heart, and never lose sight of the patient’s well-being. At NAKED MD, our approach is honest, intentional, and within reach — no fluff, no filters, just lavish experiences made accessible to anyone who desires them.
Temporary Medical Office Assistant Ultimate Staffing ServicesTemporary Medical Office AssistantLaguna Hills, California$25–$27 / hourUltimate Staffing is seeking an experienced Medical Office Assistant to support the closure of a medical practice in Laguna Hills, CA. This is a temporary assignment, ideal for someone with a strong background in healthcare administration who can bring professionalism, organization, and empathy for a seamless transition process.
Temporary Medical Office Assistant - Bilingual Spanish Ultimate Staffing ServicesTemporary Medical Office Assistant - Bilingual SpanishLaguna Hills, California$25–$27 / hourUltimate Staffing is seeking an experienced Bilingual Spanish Medical Office Assistant to support the closure of a medical practice in Laguna Hills, CA. This is a temporary assignment, ideal for someone with a strong background in healthcare administration who can bring professionalism, organization, and empathy for a seamless transition process.
Back Office - Medical Assistant I Unicare Community Health Center IncBack Office - Medical Assistant IFontana, CAUnicare Community Health Center is a federally qualified health center providing comprehensive patient-centered primary care services including medical, dental, substance abuse treatment, mental health and outreach services to low income, multiethnic, uninsured and underinsured populations. The Medical Assistant I works as part of a health care team including physicians, NP/PA's, patient services representatives, medical records, health educators and social workers to provide comprehensive care in a non-judgmental manner.
Bilingual Spanish Medical Office Assistant Ultimate Staffing ServicesBilingual Spanish Medical Office AssistantLaguna Hills, California$25–$28 / hourUltimate Staffing is seeking an experienced Bilingual Spanish Medical Office Assistant to support the closure of a medical practice in Laguna Hills, CA. This is a temporary assignment, ideal for someone with a strong background in healthcare administration who can bring professionalism, organization, and empathy for a seamless transition process.
Back Office Medical Assistant Argus Medical Management, LLCBack Office Medical AssistantNewport Beach, CA$23–$24 / hourFull timeNewport Children's Medical Group provides expert, compassionate pediatric care for children of all ages, from newborns to adolescents, at its locations in Newport Beach, Irvine, Costa Mesa, and Laguna Beach. Hours: Mon-Fri, 8 hours shift .
Medical Director Dermatology Office American Family Care AnaheimMedical Director Dermatology OfficeAnaheim, Californiamagazine as one of the fastest-growing companies in the U.S., AFC's stated mission is to provide the best healthcare possible, in a kind and caring environment, while respecting the rights of all patients, in an economical manner, at times and locations convenient to the patient. Today, with more than 250 clinics and 800 in-network physicians caring for over 6 million patients a year, AFC is the nation's leading provider of urgent care, accessible primary care, and occupational medicine.
Medical Assistant for PEDIATRIC BACK OFFICE DR SINDU PILLAI MD INCMedical Assistant for PEDIATRIC BACK OFFICEMURRIETA, CAAs a Medical Assistant, you providing routine support alongside nurses and medical staff, and assisting with keeping track of tests and lab reporting to ensure everything arrives on time and the patient is kept informed on their condition and care. You will also be helping manage the inventory of medical supplies, setting up machines and testing equipment, and cleaning instruments and rooms as needed.
Medical Assistant - Back Office Coordinated Health Solutions/Newport Orthopedic InstituteMedical Assistant - Back OfficeNewport Beach, CaliforniaJOB SUMMARY: The Medical Assistant (Back Office) is responsible for all aspects of back-office tasks including, but not limited to: preparing patients to see the physician, assisting physicians with procedures, responding to requests for information from patients, physicians, pharmacies, and worker's compensation adjusters, completing forms and paperwork as requested, scheduling tests as requested, and performing other duties as directed. Assists physicians during examinations and minor procedures, including suture/stitch removal and dressing application/removal, and cast and splint application/removal, etc.
LVN - Outpatient- Level II - Temecula Medical Office - Internal Medicine - On Call Kaiser PermanenteLVN - Outpatient- Level II - Temecula Medical Office - Internal Medicine - On CallTemecula, CAWithin scope observes and documents patients condition by gathering signs, symptoms, and reactions to therapy, to identify unexpected and/or significant findings, initiates appropriate emergency procedures as necessary, and reports unusual conditions to the registered nurse/advanced practice providers as established by policy and procedure in a timely manner. Consistently supports compliance and the Principles of Responsibilities (Kaiser Permanentes Code of Conduct) by maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of information, protecting the assets of the organization, acting with ethics and integrity, reporting non-compliance, and adhering to applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations, accreditation, and licenser requirements (if applicable), and kaiser Permanentes policies and procedures.
LVN -Outpatient- Level II - Meridian Medical Office Build - Med Ofc Admin - (Bilingual Spanish) - On Call Kaiser PermanenteLVN -Outpatient- Level II - Meridian Medical Office Build - Med Ofc Admin - (Bilingual Spanish) - On CallRiverside, CAWithin scope observes and documents patients condition by gathering signs, symptoms, and reactions to therapy, to identify unexpected and/or significant findings, initiates appropriate emergency procedures as necessary, and reports unusual conditions to the registered nurse/advanced practice providers as established by policy and procedure in a timely manner. Consistently supports compliance and the Principles of Responsibilities (Kaiser Permanentes Code of Conduct) by maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of information, protecting the assets of the organization, acting with ethics and integrity, reporting non-compliance, and adhering to applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations, accreditation, and licenser requirements (if applicable), and kaiser Permanentes policies and procedures.
Back Office Medical Assistant Heart & Vascular Wellness CenterBack Office Medical AssistantMurrieta, California$18–$25We perform numerous tests and procedures in-office for conditions such as hypertension, heart palpitations, congestive heart failure symptoms, chest pain (especially chest pain left side), heart attack symptoms and signs of a stroke. “Reasonable accommodation” is any change or adjustment to a job or work environment that permits a qualified applicant or employee with a disability to participate in the job application process, to perform the essential functions of a job, or to enjoy benefits and privileges of employment equal to those enjoyed by employees without disabilities.
Back Office Medical Assistant Medicor Medical Group IncBack Office Medical AssistantRancho Cucamonga, CA$17–$19 / hourYou will support doctors and patients through a variety of tasks related to patient care management, organization and communication. Room patients, obtain vital signs, patient history, and reason for seeking care.
Back Office Medical Assistant 26-00187 Alura Workforce SolutionsBack Office Medical Assistant 26-00187Laguna Hills, CAThis team of skilled general, vascular, and trauma surgeons has performed tens of thousands of surgeries and holds surgical privileges at some of the area's top hospitals and outpatient surgical centers. As a Back Office Medical Assistant, you'll work directly alongside physicians and clinical staff, playing a hands-on role in patient care from the moment they step into the exam room.
Medical Director Dermatology Office American Family Care Ladera RanchMedical Director Dermatology OfficeLadera Ranch, Californiamagazine as one of the fastest-growing companies in the U.S., AFC's stated mission is to provide the best healthcare possible, in a kind and caring environment, while respecting the rights of all patients, in an economical manner, at times and locations convenient to the patient. Today, with more than 250 clinics and 800 in-network physicians caring for over 6 million patients a year, AFC is the nation's leading provider of urgent care, accessible primary care, and occupational medicine.
Director, Medical Staff Office (KFH/HP) Kaiser PermanenteDirector, Medical Staff Office (KFH/HP)Riverside, CALeads training and regulatory awareness by: identifying training outcome priorities, developing overall plans for, and may assist in the strategic development of training and orientation of newly appointed physician leaders for effective oversight and management of their departments credentialing, proctoring, privileging and reappointment processes; developing strategies and relationships to efficiently convey informational/educational documents (newsletters, memos) to communicate critical information regarding organizational programs and policies; enabling collaborations with interorganizational key stakeholders, both internal and external, to ensure appropriate awareness of key issues and decision-making; removing barriers to leadership meetings aimed at developing on-boarding processes (orientation, training activities) and alignment to education requirements; developing applicable governing documents (bylaws, rules and regulations/policies and procedures) that support and direct organizational practices and ensure compliance; and providing consultation on the interpretation, interaction, and implementation of current policies, regulations, and legislation and advices on the current climate and potential changes which may have long term effects on business operations. Oversees credentialing and privileging maintenance and management by: overseeing and consulting on complex cases for alignment with guidelines and requirements for evaluation of application and supporting documents for completeness and to determine applicants initial eligibility for membership/participation; determining expectations for interactions with and information dissemination to practitioner during application process; overseeing and leading the evaluation, presentation, escalation follow-up of complex and intricate practitioner-specific data (e.g., Board Reports, Delegation reports) to decision-making bodies and developing process improvements, as needed; Establishing guidelines for initial or reappointment/re-credentialing for eligible practitioners for accuracy; leading definition of credentialing and privileging processes for all practitioners/providers; and leading facilitation of internal (e.g., interdisciplinary/scope of practice, medical executives) and supporting the facilitation of external committees (e.g., contracted facilities, state), projects, and relevant initiatives to implement change and to move QA initiatives forward.
NewMedical Receptionist Hanmaum Medical CenterMedical ReceptionistLaguna Woods, CA$20–$23 / hourHanmaum Medical Center is seeking a motivated and organized Unit Secretary to support our clinical team and help ensure smooth daily operations of the clinic. This entry-level position serves as the communication hub of the office, assisting physicians, nurses, and patients with administrative and coordination tasks.
Dental Front Office Receptionist Empower Dental GroupDental Front Office ReceptionistRancho Cucamonga, CAThe Dental Office Receptionist oversees appointment scheduling, manages patient communications, verifies insurance, collects payments, and supports clinical staff by maintaining an optimized daily schedule. As we scale, we're looking for a creative, resourceful, and driven staff to help us share our story, strengthen our brand, and engage our growing network of patients and team members.
Front Office Dental Receptionist Patient Care Coordinator Norco Ca CbFront Office Dental Receptionist Patient Care Coordinator Norco CaNorco, CaliforniaPerform basic front office clerical duties such as maintaining a clean and organized reception area, checking in patients, answering phones, scheduling appointments, and supporting daily administrative tasks. We are seeking to hire a positive, and patient-focused Front Office Receptionist / Patient Care Coordinator to join our growing multi-specialty private practice in Norco, CA.
NewMedical Receptionist CenterWellMedical ReceptionistOrange, FloridaAs the largest provider of senior-focused primary care, a leading provider of home healthcare and a leading integrated home delivery, specialty, hospice and retail pharmacy, CenterWell is focused on whole health and addressing the physical, emotional and social wellness of our patients. Greets visitors and determines the nature of their visit, issues visitor passes and maintains visitor logs, alerts appropriate party of visitor arrival or directs visitors to appropriate office, department or employee.
Medical Receptionist Ultimate Staffing ServicesMedical ReceptionistArcadia, California$19–$22 / hourThis role ensures efficient office operations by managing scheduling, patient intake, and administrative tasks while maintaining compliance with healthcare regulations. The Medical Receptionist serves as the first point of contact for patients, providing professional front-desk support in a fast-paced healthcare setting.
Bilingual Front Desk Medical Receptionist Headlands Research IncBilingual Front Desk Medical ReceptionistRiverside, CARemote$20–$23 / hourThe ideal candidate will demonstrate strong organizational and management skills, high proficiency in technology/computer applications, and a commitment to providing excellent customer service. • Prior experience scheduling customer/patient appointments and handling customer/patient phone calls required.
Medical Receptionist - Bilingual (English/Spanish) St. Jude Neighborhood Health CentersMedical Receptionist - Bilingual (English/Spanish)Orange, CA$23–$24.51 / hourOur health centers use a team-based model of care that includes family medicine, obstetrics, women's health, oral and vision care, preventative and educational health, mental health, patient advocacy, case management, and community health. Collects required copayments, payments (cash, check, credit card), issues receipts, stamps back of checks and records MRN, makes change, etc., per established procedures.
Office Administrator/Front Desk/Phones Charles W Moniak, MD, IncOffice Administrator/Front Desk/PhonesNewport Beach, CABusy OB/GYN medical office in Newport Beach is looking for a front office administrator and front desk coordinator/receptionist/scheduler/phones. We are looking for someone highly motivated to learn and who is a quick learner, and is looking for a job long term.
Front Office Representative I PIH HealthFront Office Representative IWhittier, CA$23–$29.90Full timeThe fully integrated network is comprised of PIH Health Downey Hospital, PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital, PIH Health Whittier Hospital, 37 outpatient medical office buildings, a multispecialty medical (physician) group, home healthcare services and hospice care, as well as heart, cancer, digestive health, orthopedics, women’s health, urgent care and emergency services. The Front Office Representative I works under general supervision to perform various front office duties in the medical office setting to ensure efficient operations and patient satisfaction; works closely with Office Manager to trouble-shoot and resolve problems and maintains positive relationships with patients, family members, visitors, and fellow employees.
NewFront Office Assistant MemorialCare Health SystemFront Office AssistantSan Juan Capistrano, CA$23–$28.64 / hourWe are committed to increasing access to patient-centric, affordable, and high-quality healthcare; your personal contributions are integral to MemorialCare''s recognition as a market leader and innovator in value-based and other care models. MemorialCare is a nonprofit integrated health system that includes four leading hospitals, award-winning medical groups - consisting of over 200 sites of care, and more than 2,000 physicians throughout Orange and Los Angeles Counties.
Medical Receptionist (Bilingual English/Spanish) Ultimate Staffing ServicesMedical Receptionist (Bilingual English/Spanish)Fullerton, California$23This position plays a critical role as the first point of contact for patients and visitors, ensuring smooth operations in a fast-paced outpatient healthcare environment. We are seeking a professional and detail-oriented Patient Access Representative for a temporary 3-month assignment , with the potential to transition to a permanent role in the future (though not guaranteed).
Patient Care Coordinator - Physical Therapy office Doctors of Physical TherapyPatient Care Coordinator - Physical Therapy officeHuntington Beach, CAFull timeWe are seeking an experienced and highly professional Patient Care Coordinator who is passionate about delivering exceptional patient experiences and maintaining efficient front-office operations in a busy healthcare environment. Huntington Beach Physical Therapy Specialists (HBPTS) is currently seeking a Full-Time Patient Care Coordinator for our Harbour and Beach clinics, where our "together we're better" philosophy creates a culture that makes coming to work enjoyable for everyone.
Medical Receptionist Rose Womens HealthMedical ReceptionistArcadia, CAThe ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and committed to delivering exceptional service in a fast-paced healthcare environment. We offer a supportive and collaborative work environment where teamwork, professionalism, and patient care are our highest priorities.
Fixed Term Medical Receptionist Carbon HealthFixed Term Medical ReceptionistEastvale, CaliforniaIn this fixed term, full-time hourly role, you will play a key part in ensuring the smooth day-to-day operation of the clinic by providing efficient administrative support, accurate data entry, and exceptional customer service to both patients and clinical staff. Manage a high volume of incoming phone calls, using excellent phone etiquette to route calls, take messages, and answer general inquiries.
Front Office Admin - Patient Service Representative I Unicare Community Health Center IncFront Office Admin - Patient Service Representative IColton, CAFull range of body motion requires twisting body, pushing, pulling, reaching, bending, stooping, and handling objects with hands and/or fingers, listening, talking, and/or hearing, and seeing. The PSR I is responsible for patient check-ins and discharge process to support efficient clinic operations and patient flow while consistently demonstrating respect and sensitivity towards patients and families from diverse backgrounds cultures and lifestyles.