Patient Access Associate (2026-0473)

Job Title Patient Access Associate Req: 2026-0473 Location: Cardiology Clinic, Renton, WA Department: Cardiology Shift: Days Type: Full Time

FTE: 1

Category: Administrative/Clerical Salary Range: Min $22.17 - Max $37.05/hr, DOE Job Description The position description is a guide to the critical duties and essential functions of the job, not an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, qualifications, physical demands, and work environment conditions. Position descriptions are reviewed and revised to meet the changing needs of the organization. Job Overview: The Patient Access Associate position is responsible for scheduling services in hospital and clinic services 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 in their respective departments. Responsibilities Inbound and outbound scheduling, pre‑registration, insurance verification, registration, check‑in, estimates, payment collections, and check‑out. Schedule services for hospital and clinic, ensuring referrals are complete and accurate. Use EPIC to gather necessary scheduling information, such as patient acuity, referral status, and ancillary orders. Coordinate external resources (labs, films, history) to ensure prerequisites are completed. Request additional information from referring offices as needed for accurate scheduling and reimbursement. Confirm services are covered by patient’s insurance and communicate benefits or network limitations. Manage patient appointment check‑in, verify financial clearance, update patient information, and answer questions while the patient waits. Generate patient estimates and apply Point of Service (POS) collections guidelines to determine patient liability. Accept payments, document information in HIS, and provide receipts. Confirm accounts meet financial clearance criteria; refer to FA or management when necessary. Complete MyChart scheduling for appointment requests and direct scheduled appointments. Utilize patient and referral work queues to ensure accounts are actively worked and documentation is complete. Satisfy departmental scheduling protocols and prioritize work per standard workflows. Meet targets for productivity, key performance indicators including POS collections and pre‑registration metrics. Receive, distribute, and respond to mail for the work area, including checking referral queues, Aspect, Epic In‑Basket, and faxes. Deliver excellent customer service in every interaction. Provide first‑call resolution whenever possible; de‑escalate upset patients by offering options for resolution. Assess patients’ needs by active listening and questioning to determine the best action. Adhere to Valley Medical Center’s Patient Identification guidelines, using Patients Are First principles to select or create patient records. Apply VMC registration standards for accurate and up‑to‑date patient records. Verify insurance eligibility during scheduling and update records as needed. Review patient and referral work queues for incomplete work; resolve errors before patient arrival. Scan appropriate documentation including ID, insurance cards, referral or authorization information. Monitor office supplies and equipment, and initiate ordering as required. Perform other duties as assigned. Physical/Mental Demands Must be able to stand or sit for extended periods, endure repetitive keyboarding motions, lift supplies up to 10 lbs., and push patients in wheelchairs from the admitting department to the patient care area. Qualifications High School Graduate or equivalent (GED) required. Minimum one‑year front office experience in a physician office or hospital access department, including scheduling, registering, multi‑line phone systems, EMR, and use of multiple software programs simultaneously. Keyboarding speed of 35 wpm. Computer experience in a Windows‑based environment. Excellent verbal, written, and listening communication skills. Strong customer service skills. Knowledge of medical terminology and abbreviations; ability to spell and understand commonly used terms. Ability to function effectively and positively with patients, peers, and providers at all times. Ability to access, analyze, apply, and adhere to departmental protocols, policies, and guidelines. Ability to provide verbal and written instructions and communicate effectively. Demonstrated understanding and adherence to compliance standards. Empathy and ability to maintain a calm, professional demeanor during all interactions. Ability to analyze and solve complex problems, including research and creative solutions with patients on the phone. Ability to document per procedural template requirements, gather pertinent information, and enter data into computer while talking with callers. Knowledge and use of third‑party payer/insurance portals to identify coverage and eligibility; understanding of provider portals and authorization expectations. Ability to multitask with multiple monitors and utilize electronic faxing, EMR, telephone software, Microsoft Office programs, and other computer tools simultaneously. Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment while handling high volume inbound calls. Ability to meet or exceed department performance standards for registration quality, productivity, and collections. Proficient spelling, grammar, and sentence structure. EEO Statement We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. #J-18808-Ljbffr Valley Medical Center