Eligibility Specialist 1

Savista•Kankakee, IL

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Eligibility Specialist I advocates for uninsured and underinsured patients by assessing eligibility for financial assistance and guiding them through applications for government- and charity-funded programs. The role involves in-person patient visits, including bedside visits, and serving as a liaison among patients, hospital staff, and government agencies to establish eligibility, secure funding, and resolve coverage issues. The specialist manages a high caseload, follows up on pending applications, communicates financial obligations and funding options, and maintains accurate, confidential records in compliance with HIPAA and organizational policies. The position is full-time, hourly, and onsite at St. Mary Kankakee Hospital in Kankakee, Illinois. Work is scheduled Monday through Friday, with shifts available between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Flexibility is required to meet business needs, and the role may require coverage at nearby hospital locations. Travel is 0–15%. The hourly salary range is $20–$24, varying based on factors including location, experience, certifications, and skills.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least 1 year of experience in a customer-facing role; healthcare financial counseling, patient advocacy, or case management experience is preferred.
Flexibility to support nearby hospital locations within the assigned market area as needed for vacancy coverage.
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to explain complex information clearly and empathetically.
Ability to identify solutions to financial challenges and use program knowledge to benefit patients.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities and patient needs.
Genuine care for patients’ needs and concerns, with the ability to build trust and rapport.
Ability to work effectively with colleagues, hospital staff, and external agencies.
Ability to ensure documentation is accurate, complete, and submitted on time.
Reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

Proficiency in English and Spanish.
Familiarity with state and federal assistance programs such as Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security Disability.

Responsibilities

Meet with patients in person, including bedside visits, to assess financial assistance eligibility and provide compassionate guidance on available programs.
Facilitate applications for Medicaid, Medicare, Disability, and hospital charity care, ensuring accurate documentation is submitted on time.
Liaise with patients, hospital staff, and government agencies to establish eligibility, secure funding, and resolve coverage issues.
Manage a high caseload, prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and follow up on pending applications.
Explain financial obligations, funding options, and program details to patients clearly, empathetically, and professionally.
Maintain accurate and confidential records in compliance with HIPAA and organizational policies.
Meet productivity and quality metrics that support financial counseling objectives.
Use multiple systems and databases to gather, track, and report patient data.
Assist with vacancy coverage as needed, including providing support at nearby hospital locations within the assigned market area.
Complete special projects as assigned.