Denials Optimization Associate

athenahealth•Belfast, ME

3d•$50,000 - $86,000•Hybrid

About The Position

We are looking for a Denials Optimization Associate to join the Denials Optimization & Process Efficiencies team. In this role, the Denials Optimization Associate will play a critical role in improving revenue cycle performance by using data and analytics to identify denial trends, uncover root causes, and execute targeted process improvements that reduce manual effort and improve key operational KPIs. This role blends analytical problem‑solving, workflow optimization, and cross‑functional collaboration to turn insights into measurable performance gains. The Associate leads focused initiatives that drive sustained reductions in manual touches, denial rates, and rework while improving operational scalability. The Team: The Denials Optimization & Process Efficiencies team is responsible for reducing operational friction, lowering cost per claim, and improving denial outcomes across the revenue cycle. The team partners closely with Operations, Business Intelligence, Training, Quality, and Technology teams to identify automation opportunities and standardize best‑in‑class workflows. Using data-driven insights and pilot-led experimentation, the team delivers scalable solutions that reduce manual workload and improve efficiency across payer and client programs.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience
3+ years of experience in denial management, revenue cycle operations, or a related operational role
Demonstrated success driving process optimization and reducing manual effort
Strong stakeholder engagement and cross‑functional collaboration skills
Experience leading projects independently with measurable outcomes
Working knowledge of project management concepts
SQL or advanced data-querying experience

Responsibilities

Analyze denial performance data, workflows, and monitor outputs to identify trends, bottlenecks, and root causes impacting key KPIs.
Translate insights into action by designing and executing targeted intervention strategies that measurably improve operational performance and reduce manual effort.
Lead end‑to‑end optimization initiatives, including problem definition, data analysis, solution design, execution, and post‑implementation performance tracking.
Develop success metrics and monitor KPI performance to validate impact, identify risks, and sustain improvements over time.
Partner cross‑functionally with Operations, BI, R&D, Commercial, and Training teams to implement workflow changes, automation opportunities, and monitoring enhancements.
Communicate findings and outcomes to leadership and stakeholders through clear, data‑driven storytelling and performance reporting.