Patient Access Specialist I

Join a dynamic healthcare team in the Pacific Northwest region as a Patient Access Specialist I, where your role is vital in delivering compassionate and efficient service to patients throughout their care journey. This position focuses on ensuring accurate scheduling and registration for clinic and hospital services, while supporting patients with financial responsibilities.

Job Summary

As a Patient Access Specialist I, you will be responsible for registering patients accurately, verifying insurance and benefits, and managing referrals and pre-authorizations. You will conduct registration interviews, perform point-of-service collections, and handle daily cash drawer operations. Your communication skills will be essential as you operate multi-line phone systems, respond to patient inquiries, and maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.

Key Responsibilities

• Schedule and register patients using applicable software, ensuring data accuracy including patient identification and insurance verification.
• Verify referrals and pre-authorizations for services.
• Conduct patient registration interviews prior to visits.
• Collect patient financial responsibilities such as co-pays and co-insurances, and manage daily cash drawer.
• Operate multi-line telephone systems to route and respond to calls professionally and promptly.
• Respond to patient inquiries, ensuring comfort, dignity, and confidentiality.
• Complete daily work assignments and general administrative tasks including mail processing.
• Participate in workflow improvement projects and other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; Associate's Degree preferred.
• Healthcare experience is preferred.
• Knowledge of medical terminology and healthcare revenue cycle is advantageous.

Licenses and Certifications

• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is encouraged.

Skills and Abilities

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment while delivering exceptional customer service with a positive and professional demeanor.
• Proficiency in insurance verification processes using multiple online and telephone systems.
• Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office, email, and office equipment.
• Excellent problem-solving, organizational, and prioritization skills.
• Calm and professional under pressure, adaptable to changing workloads and tasks.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with sensitivity to patients' emotional and social needs.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and maintain accurate documentation.
• Basic math skills and understanding of healthcare revenue functions.
• Team-oriented with a collaborative and respectful approach.

Work Environment and Schedule

This is a full-time position with 8-hour shifts in a 40-hour workweek under a service union contract.

Benefits

Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth, including competitive compensation, medical, dental, vision coverage, life insurance, disability plans, retirement contributions, tuition reimbursement, employee wellness programs, and more.