Financial Counseling Specialist - UAMS Health Benton/Bryant

University of Arkansas System • Benton, AR

1d

About The Position

The Financial Counseling Specialist works with patients who have scheduled clinical services to promote financial clearance before the day of care. The specialist contacts payers and providers to secure authorizations as needed and explains hospital payment requirements, alternative financing, and charity care programs during pre-service. The role provides financial information in a clear, patient-friendly manner consistent with UAMS customer service and price transparency initiatives at the UAMS Health Benton/Bryant location.

The specialist screens patients for financial assistance and other coverage programs, collects payments when required, establishes payment plans, and processes charity discount applications. The position also assists with financial screening and explaining payment programs in the Emergency Department when requested. Other duties may be assigned as needed.

Requirements

• High school diploma, GED, or formal educational equivalent plus 6 years of experience in healthcare in a revenue-cycle-related function; alternatively, a bachelor's degree in finance, business, or a related field plus 2 years of experience in healthcare revenue cycle or a related function.
• Able to perform basic computer operations.
• Able to follow oral and written instructions and communicate effectively with others.
• Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, with the ability to multitask.
• Excellent customer relations skills.
• Ability to read, write, speak, and apply mathematical concepts and sound reasoning to perform the essential duties and responsibilities.
• Medical terminology competency required within 3 months of hire.

Nice To Haves

• Basic medical terminology knowledge is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Meet with self-pay and underinsured patients to explain benefits, financial obligations, payment options, and assistance programs.
• Ensure a payment methodology is in place before discharge.
• Screen scheduled non-urgent self-pay and underinsured surgical and diagnostic study patients before service, collect payment before service, and ensure a financial coverage plan is in place.
• Process deposits and establish payment plans for large out-of-pocket obligations.
• Screen referred clinic patients before service, collect minimum payment before the visit, and ensure a financial coverage plan is in place before the visit.
• Screen patients for eligibility for Social Security, COBRA, Crime Victims, Health Insurance Marketplace, Medicaid, and other programs when appropriate.
• Obtain lifetime reserve letter signatures as needed.
• Screen patients applying or deemed eligible for the Financial Assistance Plan for eligibility for other programs before applying the hospital discount.
• Process charity discount applications by reviewing patient financial information, confirming required information is received, and determining program eligibility.
• Assist with financial screening and program explanations in the Emergency Department when requested.
• Discuss alternative payment options with self-pay patients who are ineligible for assistance programs and with patients who have a high-deductible or limited-benefit plan.
• Perform other duties as needed.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision plans for qualifying staff and family.
• Holiday, vacation, and sick leave.
• Education discount for staff and dependents (undergraduate only).
• Retirement contributions with up to 10% matching from UAMS.
• Basic life insurance up to $50,000.
• Career training and educational opportunities.
• Merchant discounts.
• Concierge prescription delivery on the main campus when using the UAMS pharmacy.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED