Front Desk Specialist (Southwest)

Avenue 360 Health and Wellness•Houston, TX

About The Position

Avenue 360 is a Federal Qualified Healthcare Center (FQHC) that strives to provide high quality and caring service to promote healthy people and communities. Our 360-degree approach addresses medical, dental, and behavioral health needs as well as addressing non-medical drivers of health like housing and transportation. Our compassionate care extends to those with and without insurance. We strive to not only be the provider of choice but the employer of choice. Our Values PACT We take PRIDE in our work. We have a positive ATTITUDE. We are CARING and CUSTOMER-SERVICE oriented. We are a TEAM. Role Overview The Front Desk Specialist serves as a key contributor to the overall patient experience and plays a central role in supporting the healthcare team. As the first point of contact for individuals seeking care, this position ensures that every patient is welcomed, informed, and guided through the initial steps of their visit. By managing essential administrative processes, maintaining accurate records, and delivering exceptional customer service, the Front Desk Specialist helps create a smooth, efficient, and patient‑centered environment.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
Minimum of 1 year of experience in a healthcare, customer service, or administrative setting.
Strong ability to multitask while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
Demonstrated competency in communication, problem-solving, and maintaining professionalism under pressure.
Soft skills such as empathy, adaptability, teamwork, and a service-oriented mindset
Participates in all required training and continuing education as outlined by the organization, funding sources, and any applicable licensure requirements.

Nice To Haves

Additional coursework or training in healthcare administration, customer service, or office management preferred.
Professional certifications in medical office administration or customer service are a plus.
Experience working with patients, clients, or the public in a fast-paced environment preferred.
Proficiency with electronic health records (EHR) systems, scheduling software, and basic office technology and software preferred.
Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is preferred to support effective communication with patients, though candidates who are not bilingual are still encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

Serve as the clinic’s first point of contact and set the tone for the patient’s visit.
Provide a welcoming, professional, and supportive environment.
Address questions, concerns, and complaints with empathy and clarity.
Ensure accurate and complete patient information is collected and updated.
Manage required forms, documentation, and EHR entries with precision.
Maintain confidentiality and uphold privacy standards.
Schedule, confirm, and adjust appointments efficiently.
Support patient flow by managing check‑ins, check‑outs, and walk‑ins.
Follow up on missed appointments and ensure daily schedules are fully dispositioned.
Maintain clear communication with clinical and administrative staff.
Relay information that supports smooth care delivery and operational efficiency.
Respond to EHR messages and tasks in a timely manner.
Verify insurance coverage and eligibility prior to appointments.
Assist patients with understanding general payment expectations.
Coordinate with eligibility staff on admissions, renewals, and changes.
Answer phones, return messages, and document communications promptly.
Maintain organized, clean, and welcoming front‑of‑house areas.
Support basic administrative tasks such as supply tracking and payment collection.
Provide cross‑coverage when needed to ensure continuity of operations.
Participate in required training and maintain knowledge of policies and procedures.
Uphold professional conduct, accuracy, and reliability in all duties.
Follow organizational standards for safety, privacy, and service quality.
Provide cross‑coverage to other clinics as needed.
Adapt to changing priorities and assist with tasks outside of routine responsibilities as needed.
Perform additional duties or special projects assigned to support organization operations.
Understand that the responsibilities listed are not intended to be all‑inclusive and may evolve based on the needs of the clinic.