Patient Access Associate

PCA Medical Group • Irvine, CA

12d • Onsite

About The Position

The Patient Access Associate is the first point of contact for patients at the Irvine clinic, helping set the tone for their healthcare experience while managing important administrative functions. The role provides patient-centered service in a fast-paced environment and includes opportunities to mentor teammates, support clinic operations, and contribute to patient satisfaction.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• 1–2 years of insurance verification experience in a healthcare setting.
• 1–2 years of experience in a patient-facing clinical or healthcare role.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and a strong customer service orientation.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
• Proficiency with computer systems and Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Strong organizational and planning abilities, with attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain professionalism and composure when handling complex or sensitive situations.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with the NextGen EHR system.
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish, English and Farsi, or English and Mandarin.
• Previous experience training or mentoring team members.
• Certification as a Patient Access Associate or a similar healthcare administration credential.

Responsibilities

• Greet patients, families, and visitors with warmth and professionalism, upholding the Patient's Bill of Rights.
• Register patients by collecting, verifying, and accurately entering demographic, insurance eligibility, and health information into the EHR system.
• Verify insurance and analyze benefits, generate estimates, complete reverifications, and clearly communicate patients’ financial responsibilities.
• Manage appointments, including scheduling, rescheduling, confirmations, follow-ups, and referral coordination with clinical staff and provider offices.
• Process patient payments, including co-pays and outstanding balances, accurately and discreetly.
• Obtain and maintain patient signatures for consents, financial agreements, and regulatory compliance documentation.
• Handle incoming calls professionally and efficiently, directing patients to appropriate clinic areas.
• Identify and resolve patient data discrepancies to maintain data integrity across systems.
• Independently resolve escalated scheduling and registration issues.
• Mentor new Patient Access Associates and contribute to team development.
• Provide cross-clinic support as needed to maintain operational coverage.
• Assist patients with professionalism, empathy, and emotional intelligence in high-volume settings, including when they are frustrated or distressed.
• Perform additional administrative duties as assigned to support clinic operations.

What This Job Offers

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