Patient Access and Authorization Specialist

The Crossroads Center • Cincinnati, OH

22h • $17 - $21 • Onsite

About The Position

NorthStar Behavioral Health is seeking an organized and professional Patient Access and Authorization Specialist to join our team. The Patient Access and Authorization Specialist plays a key role in the revenue cycle by bridging gaps among patients, clinical teams, and insurance providers. Their primary responsibility is to verify insurance eligibility and secure prior authorizations to ensure patients receive timely care while minimizing unexpected financial barriers.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent; Associate's degree preferred.
• 3+ years of continuous experience in behavioral healthcare registration, patient access, insurance verification, and prior authorization.
• Knowledge of commercial, Medicare, Medicaid, and managed care insurance plans.
• Familiarity with medical terminology, CPT, ICD-10, and HCPCS codes.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Experience using electronic health records (EHR) and practice management systems.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced healthcare environment.

Nice To Haves

• Certified Healthcare Access Associate (CHAA) or similar certification.
• Experience with revenue cycle management processes.
• Knowledge of payer authorization requirements and denial management.
• Strong customer service and patient advocacy skills.
• Ability to pass a criminal background and drug screen.
• Current vaccination for tuberculosis (TB) or willingness to be vaccinated upon hire.

Responsibilities

• Verify patient insurance eligibility and benefits before scheduled services.
• Confirm policy effective dates and coverage limits.
• Determine patient financial responsibility, including copayments, coinsurance, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses.
• Obtain and process prior authorizations, precertification, and referrals from insurance carriers.
• Gather required clinical documentation from providers.
• Review medical documentation to support authorization requests.
• Communicate with clinical staff and insurance representatives regarding authorization status and requirements.
• Monitor authorization approvals and expiration dates.
• Track pending authorizations and follow up with payors to ensure timely decisions.
• Accurately register patients and update demographic and insurance information in the electronic health record (EHR).
• Educate front desk about insurance requirements, financial responsibilities, and authorization processes.
• Maintain detailed records of all authorization activities and payer communications.
• Ensure compliance with HIPAA, payer guidelines, and organizational policies.
• Review authorization denials and assist in preparing and submitting appeals and reconsideration requests.
• Collaborate with billing and revenue cycle teams to resolve insurance-related issues and prevent claim denials related to authorizations.

Benefits

• Competitive Salary and Benefits Package, including health, dental, and employer-paid vision, life, and long-term disability coverages
• Up to 3 weeks of Paid Time Off each year
• 403(b) Retirement Plan
• Student Loan Forgiveness Program
• Professional Development, CEUs and Learning Access via Relias
• Supportive Work Environment
• Purpose-Driven Work
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Discount Program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree