Full-Time Financial Counselor

Ashe Memorial Hospital•Jefferson, NC

About The Position

The Patient Financial Counselor estimates patients’ financial liability and provides financial advice and assistance regarding medical bills. The role interacts professionally with patients and staff, promotes teamwork, and helps create an environment in which a positive patient experience is a requirement. The position has no supervisory responsibilities and requires no travel. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pay is commensurate with experience. New employees must provide proof of required vaccinations or receive an exemption before beginning work. A criminal background check and pre-employment drug screen are required after a conditional job offer.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
Knowledge of third-party billing requirements required.
Must be willing to receive all required vaccinations, unless an exemption is requested and granted.
Must provide proof of vaccination or receive an exemption before beginning work.
Criminal background check and pre-employment drug screen required upon conditional job offer.

Nice To Haves

Post-high-school courses or experience in insurance billing and medical terminology.
Cash management training.
One year of experience in computerized third-party billing of facility and professional services.
Two years of previous hospital business office experience.
One year of experience with Meditech.

Responsibilities

Review insurance eligibility and apply benefits to estimate patients’ out-of-pocket amounts for procedures and tests.
Secure payment arrangements so patient accounts are resolved in a timely and efficient manner.
Work with ancillary hospital departments, the Department of Social Services, collection agencies, and other agencies to support accurate estimates, patient billing, and third-party coverage.
Address delinquent patient balances, including referring accounts to a collection agency when appropriate.
Research outstanding accounts, including contacting third-party payors, until accounts are resolved to a zero balance.
Obtain financial data to process charity care applications.
Assist patients with denials, appeals, and other avenues for payment.
Process claims for estates and bankruptcies.
Post payments and provide cashier backup when necessary.
Keep updated on billing regulations, including HMO/PPO, Medicare, and Medicaid requirements.
Maintain confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA and hospital privacy policies and procedures.
Support the hospital and promote a positive attitude.
Follow the dress code, maintain a neat and clean appearance, and wear identification while on duty.
Report violations or apparent violations of applicable policies, procedures, laws, or regulations to the Compliance Officer, a member of Senior Leadership, or the Department Director.