Patient Access Associate (2026-0179)

Job Title Patient Access Associate (Per diem) Job Information Req: 2026-0179 Location: Lifestyle Medicine Covington, Covington, WA Department: Lifestyle Medicine Covington Shift: Days Type: OC / PD

FTE: 0

Category: Administrative/Clerical Salary Range: $22.17 - $37.05 per hour, DOE Job Overview The Patient Access Associate is responsible for scheduling services in hospital and clinic settings using inbound and outbound call handling and MyChart requests. Responsibilities also include scheduling, pre‑registration, insurance verification, registration, check‑in (admission of patients), estimates, payment collections, check‑out, and scheduling in‑person services within their respective departments. Prerequisites High school graduate or equivalent (GED) required. Minimum one year front‑office experience in a physician office or hospital access department. Experience with scheduling, registering, multi‑line phone systems, electronic medical record systems, and multiple software programs simultaneously. Basic keyboarding skills (35 words per minute). Computer experience in a Windows‑based environment. Excellent verbal, written, and listening communication skills. Excellent customer service skills. Knowledge of medical terminology and abbreviations; ability to spell and understand commonly used terms. Qualifications Ability to function effectively and interact positively with patients, peers, and providers at all times. Ability to analyze, apply, and adhere to departmental protocols, policies, and guidelines. Ability to provide clear verbal and written instructions. Demonstrated understanding and adherence to compliance standards. Excellent customer service skills throughout every interaction. Effective verbal and written communication skills. Active listening and needs analysis to determine appropriate action. Maintain a calm and professional demeanor during every interaction. Tactfully communicate and show empathy. Effective communication across all age groups. Ability to analyze and solve complex problems with creative solutions while on the telephone line. Proficient in documenting procedural template requirements and entering data into the computer during calls. Advanced proficiency with third‑party payer/insurance portals to identify coverage and eligibility; detailed knowledge of insurance providers and authorization processes. Ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously in a fast‑paced environment. Excellent organizational and prioritization skills. Proficient with multiple monitors, scanning, electronic faxing, electronic medical records, telephone software systems, and Microsoft Office programs. Ability to meet or exceed department performance standards for registration quality, productivity, and collections. Strong command of spelling, grammar, and sentence structure. Physical/Mental Demands Must be able to stand or sit for extended periods; withstand repetitive keyboarding motion; lift supplies or documents up to 10 lbs.; push patients in wheelchairs from the admitting department to the patient care area. Performance Responsibilities Inbound and outbound scheduling, pre‑registration, insurance verification, registration, check‑in, estimates, payment collections, check‑out, and in‑person scheduling for services supported by the department. Schedule services for hospital and clinic services; confirm referrals for completeness and accuracy. Use EPIC to gather scheduling information (patient acuity, snap board, referrals, ancillary orders). Coordinate requests for additional information from referring offices as required for accurate scheduling and reimbursement. Confirm services will be covered by patient insurance; inform patients if out of network and explain benefit limitations. Manage patient appointment check‑in process, ensuring financial clearance, up‑to‑date information, directing patients, and answering questions. Generate patient estimates and follow POS collections guidelines to determine liability; accept payments, document in HIS, and provide receipts. Refer patients to FA or management if financial clearance cannot be completed. Complete MyChart scheduling process for appointment requests and direct scheduled appointments. Utilize patient and referral work queues to actively work accounts and complete documentation. Schedule per department protocols and organize work per standard workflows. Meet productivity targets and key performance indicators including POS collections and pre‑registration. Receive, distribute, and respond to mail for the work area, including referral work queues, Aspect, Epic inbox, and faxes. Deliver excellent customer service throughout interactions; provide first‑call resolution whenever possible. De‑escalate upset patients using appropriate wording and offering options for resolution. Identify patient needs to determine best action, using active listening and inquiry. Adhere to VMC patient identification guidelines and apply VMC registration standards for accurate records. Ensure accurate insurance registration; verify eligibility and update as needed. Review patient and referral work queues for incomplete work; resolve errors before patient arrival. Scan appropriate documentation such as photo ID, insurance cards, referrals, or authorizations. Monitor office supplies and equipment, order updates as required. Perform other duties as assigned. #J-18808-Ljbffr Valleymed