Patient Access Coordinator I/Emergency Department - St. Vincent Hospital - Full time - Rotating shifts

Highmark Health•Erie, PA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Patient Access Coordinator I creates the first impression of Allegheny Health Network’s services for patients, families, and other external customers upon arrival. The role gathers and documents patient information while managing associated clinical and financial risks. Depending on the service, the coordinator performs patient identification, scheduling, registration, financial clearance, authorization and referral validation, estimate preparation, and payment collection. The coordinator connects patients with financial advocacy resources when appropriate, obtains required regulatory signatures, and explains expectations and financial responsibilities clearly and compassionately. The position requires attention to detail, strong communication and empathy, multitasking under pressure in a high-acuity patient environment, and collaboration with healthcare professionals. Work includes standing for extended periods and using a computer on wheels at the bedside. The coordinator follows EMTALA guidelines, AHN policies and procedures, and standard and isolation precautions. The role also serves as a registration resource and supports problem resolution during evenings, weekends, and holidays. Employees must protect confidential information and comply with HIPAA, information security requirements, the Code of Business Conduct, applicable laws, and company policies.

Requirements

High school diploma/GED or one to three months of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Experience operating a PC and using software applications.
One year of previous related experience, preferably in a medical setting, financial services setting, and/or demanding customer service environment.
Ability to stand for long periods and use a computer on wheels at the bedside.
Strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills, empathy, compassion, ability to multitask under pressure, and ability to work collaboratively.

Nice To Haves

Medical terminology knowledge.
Insurance knowledge.

Responsibilities

Conduct scheduling, registration, and admitting functions independently at the bedside.
Validate patient demographic data and identify and verify insurance information through payor contacts, online resources, or electronic verification systems, using accurate plan codes and coordination-of-benefits order.
Obtain limited clinical data based on the service required.
Collect and update data needed for timely, accurate bill submission, including workers’ compensation and motor vehicle claims.
Provide or obtain signatures on required regulatory paperwork.
Identify patient financial responsibilities, calculate estimates, collect liabilities, post payment transactions in the ADT system as appropriate, and perform daily reconciliation.
Identify self-pay accounts and document them for follow-up by the self-pay vendor or financial advocacy department.
Deliver a positive patient experience and cooperate with patients, healthcare personnel, and designated external agencies or vendors.
Communicate with designated contacts as needed to exchange information and promote positive working relationships.
Maintain focus on productivity standards and recommend approaches to improve performance and productivity when appropriate.
Maintain working relationships with healthcare personnel and communicate pertinent information, including alias name changes and information blocks intended to prevent release of information.
Protect patient confidentiality.
Ensure accurate registration in the electronic health record during system downtime, monitoring and reconciling every patient for accuracy.
Serve as a central resource for registration and problem resolution during evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Remain calm and professional in stressful situations and respond to inquiries from patients, visitors, hospital personnel, government agencies, and others.
Follow AHN organizational policies and procedures relevant to the location and job scope.
Complete or attend mandatory training and education sessions within approved organizational guidelines and timeframes.
Perform other duties as assigned or requested.
Follow EMTALA guidelines and standard and isolation precautions.