Patient Access Associate - Emergency Department

MaineHealth•Biddeford, ME

About The Position

The Patient Access Associate I is the first level of a three-level career path and works in the 24/7 Emergency Department. This non-clinical role is embedded in the clinical care environment and works alongside clinical care teams. The Associate is often the first point of contact for patients and visitors, providing professional and caring service while accurately identifying patients, recording arrivals, and applying armbands. At the bedside, the Associate captures demographic information, verifies insurance, obtains consent signatures, and completes admissions. Other functions may include financial navigation, copay collection, checkout, and coordination of transfers or direct admissions. The role supports accurate patient billing, including account follow-up five days after discharge. Work takes place in a high-volume, fast-paced setting using mobile workstations, and involves serving patients with varied needs and acuity, including trauma, mental health, pediatric, and critical-care patients. This position provides coverage for open shifts caused by PTO, callouts, and changing volumes. Hours vary from week to week according to departmental needs and are not guaranteed. Candidates must be flexible and willing to pick up available shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Requirements

Computer and data-entry experience is required.
Ability to use Microsoft Word, email, and internet communication.
Ability to work accurately and effectively with electronic systems.
Flexibility to pick up available shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or GED preferred.
Related experience in healthcare or customer service preferred.

Responsibilities

Serve as a first point of contact for patients and visitors in the Emergency Department.
Accurately identify patients, record arrivals, and apply patient armbands in a timely manner.
Provide customer service and support to visitors and families with a caring, professional attitude.
Capture patient demographic information and verify insurance at the bedside.
Obtain consent signatures and complete admissions.
Perform financial navigation, collect copays, complete checkout, and coordinate transfers or direct admissions as needed.
Support accurate patient billing, including account follow-up five days after discharge.
Use mobile workstations and electronic systems in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.
Provide coverage for open shifts and be available to pick up shifts as departmental needs arise.