Patient Access Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

Job Description

Job Title: Patient Access Specialist - PAS

Reports To: Site Manager

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Job Summary: This role is responsible for patient check-in, insurance verification and entry, payment collection and posting, appointment scheduling, and maintaining accurate electronic medical records. The position also serves as a key point of contact for patient and provider inquiries, requiring strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced clinical environment. Candidates must have prior medical reception and insurance experience, proficiency with computer-based charting systems, and a commitment to maintaining patient confidentiality and providing compassionate, team-oriented care.

Major Responsibilities

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Greet and check in patients in a professional, courteous, and timely manner.
• Interview patients to obtain and verify demographic, insurance, and privacy information.
• Accurately enter and update patient insurance and demographic information in the electronic health record (EHR) and billing systems.
• Collect and post patient payments, including copays, deductibles, and balances, according to practice protocols.
• Schedule, confirm, and coordinate patient appointments, follow-ups, testing, and physician referrals.
• Verify insurance eligibility and benefits; assist with pre-authorizations and referral coordination as needed.
• Compile, maintain, and accurately record medical charts, reports, and correspondence within the EHR.
• Answer incoming calls, respond to inquiries, and direct calls to appropriate staff or departments.
• Provide clear and professional communication with patients, providers, referring offices, and internal staff.
• Maintain collaborative working relationships with clinical and administrative staff to resolve issues and support patient care.
• Ensure compliance with HIPAA and all confidentiality and privacy requirements.
• Maintain proficiency with all computer-based charting and scheduling systems used by the practice.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned by management.

Professionalism:

• Maintain respectful, professional interactions with patients, physicians, coworkers, and clinic leadership.
• Promote a positive, team-based work environment free from gossip or negativity.
• Actively participate in clinic meetings and contribute to a culture of learning and collaboration.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Minimum two (2) years of experience in medical reception or patient services.
• Minimum one (1) year experience working with medical insurance, including Medicare, Medicaid, commercial, or government payers.
• Demonstrated customer service experience in a professional setting.
• Proficiency with computer systems, electronic medical records, and standard office software.
• Typing speed of at least 35 WPM (may be tested).
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and professionalism.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced clinical environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ophthalmology or retina specialty experience.
• Experience with insurance verification, pre-authorizations, and referral coordination.
• Knowledge of medical terminology.
• Bilingual (Spanish) fluency.
• Experience working in a high-volume specialty clinic.

Physical and Environmental Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting while working at a desk and computer.
• Frequent use of hands and fingers for typing, data entry, and telephone use.
• Occasional standing, walking, bending, and reaching.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 15 pounds (charts, files, office supplies).
• Visual acuity sufficient to review detailed documents and computer screens.
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally in person and by telephone.
• Work performed in a fast-paced medical clinic environment with frequent interruptions.
• Regular interaction with patients, physicians, and staff.
• Routine exposure to sensitive and confidential information requiring discretion.
• May encounter occasional stressful situations related to patient care, scheduling demands, or high call volumes.
• Standard medical office environment with moderate noise levels.

Performance Expectations

• Maintain complete and accurate documentation within required timelines.
• Demonstrate competency in ophthalmic testing and procedures as assessed by training and competency evaluations.
• Adhere to clinic policies, safety standards, and patient confidentiality requirements.
• Maintain professional conduct and teamwork in a fast-paced clinical environment.

Compensation and Benefits

This position is eligible for benefits in accordance with Sound Retina’s benefits plans and policies, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, training and certification reimbursement, and other programs as outlined in company policy.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Sound Retina is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws. Employment decisions are made without regard to protected characteristics.

Requirements: