Financial Counselor

Job Posting: Financial Counselor Department: Patient Financial Services FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Reports To: Manager of Revenue Cycle Location: Vista Medical Center (Waukegan, IL) Position Summary Vista Medical Center is seeking a detail-oriented and patient-focused Financial Counselor to support our Patient Financial Services team. This role is responsible for assessing patient financial status, educating patients on payment options, and facilitating financial arrangements in compliance with hospital policies and regulatory requirements. The Financial Counselor plays a critical role in ensuring patients clearly understand their financial obligations while delivering compassionate, service-oriented support. Key Responsibilities Patient Financial Counseling & Account Management Review daily admissions and registrations for completeness and accuracy, including after-hours activity Identify outstanding patient balances and proactively contact patients/families to discuss payment solutions Verify insurance coverage, including Medicaid eligibility, using appropriate verification tools Refer self-pay patients to designated vendors for Medicaid, charity care, and indigent care screening Assist patients in completing required financial assistance applications Payment Collection & Arrangement Request payment in full for estimated patient responsibility when appropriate Accept and process payments (cash, check, credit card, and payroll deductions for employees) Negotiate and establish payment arrangements in accordance with organizational guidelines Evaluate financial eligibility and determine appropriate payment plans based on financial assessment tools Escalate extended payment arrangements for appropriate leadership approval Elective Procedure Financial Clearance Collaborate with leadership and physicians when financial clearance cannot be obtained for elective procedures Support rescheduling decisions when financial obligations cannot be reasonably met Compliance & Regulatory Adherence Maintain compliance with all organizational, departmental, and regulatory standards Follow established policies, procedures, and confidentiality requirements Participate in required education, competencies, and professional development activities Customer Service Excellence Utilize the AIDET communication framework in all patient interactions Uphold Vista's Standards of Behavior, including professionalism, responsiveness, and patient privacy Provide clear, compassionate communication regarding financial responsibilities and options Qualifications Education High School Diploma or equivalent required Experience Minimum of three (3) years of office experience At least one (1) year of healthcare reimbursement or revenue cycle experience required Skills & Competencies Strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills Ability to handle sensitive financial discussions with professionalism and empathy Detail-oriented with strong organizational and problem-solving abilities Knowledge of insurance verification, Medicaid eligibility, and patient financial processes preferred Work Environment & Physical Requirements Primarily sedentary role with frequent sitting and computer use Occasional standing, walking, bending, and lifting (up to 50 lbs) Daily exposure to bloodborne pathogens and healthcare environment conditions Ability to manage high-volume interactions and handle sensitive situations Additional Requirements Must be able to work flexible hours, including on-call or call-in support as needed Travel between Vista Health sites may be required Ability to interact effectively with patients, physicians, staff, and external partners Why Join Vista Medical Center? Supportive, mission-driven healthcare environment Opportunities for professional growth and development Commitment to patient-centered care and community service Equal Opportunity Statement Vista Medical Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws. Disclaimer This job description is not a contract of employment. Vista Medical Center reserves the right to modify duties and responsibilities at any time based on operational needs. #J-18808-Ljbffr