Patient Access Specialist - Full time ER Registration (Evening/Varied Shift) (Patient Services Representative)

Augusta Health•Fishersville, VA

4d•$17 - $24•Onsite

About The Position

The Patient Access Specialist registers patients in the health information system by interviewing them to collect and process demographic, insurance, and other visit-related information. The role involves accurately identifying patients, determining payment sources, verifying insurance eligibility and benefits, collecting upfront payments, and interacting with patients and families, insurers, hospital departments, providers, and other team members. The specialist provides excellent customer service consistent with Augusta Health’s core values and The Augusta Way, while supporting departmental goals and a collaborative, patient-centered environment. The position handles registration and financial information, documentation, insurance authorization and financial clearance, patient financial responsibility, consent forms, physician orders, scanning, and account follow-up documentation. It also performs bed-center duties, including explaining and obtaining signatures on Medicare notices and entering or updating bed placement, room accommodation, service location, and patient status according to physician orders.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least one year of previous experience in a patient- or customer-facing role.
Eligible to work in the United States and meet Virginia state employment requirements.
Ability to demonstrate active listening.
Ability to communicate concisely, professionally, and compassionately.
Computer keyboarding/typing speed of 35 words per minute.
Ability to use good judgment and critical thinking without bias.
Attention to detail and accuracy.
Patient- and customer-centered approach and a positive attitude.
Ability to multitask, prioritize, and manage time effectively.
Adaptability to change.

Nice To Haves

CHAA certification from the National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM).
One year of experience in general clerical office or administrative duties.
At least one year of experience in a hospital, healthcare practice, or health insurance company.
Knowledge of medical terminology.
Prior experience in a hospital, healthcare system, or related service-oriented environment.
Familiarity with Augusta Health’s systems, workflows, or organizational culture.

Responsibilities

Capture and enter accurate patient demographic and financial information through direct contact or by telephone, adapting interviews to the age of the patient or family member.
Enter gathered information into the patient health information system; interact with patients in reception areas or at the bedside using a Workstation on Wheels when needed.
Ensure required documentation is complete and included in the patient record in accordance with federal and state regulations and DNV requirements.
Verify insurance and coordinate with the pre-authorization team to obtain required authorization and financial clearance before scheduled appointments.
Explain patients’ financial liability, collect their portion of financial responsibility, and refer them to a Financial Advocate when needed.
Obtain patient or legal representative signatures on consent and other registration forms.
Complete registration quality audit worklists in a timely manner.
Review physician service orders for required elements and enter laboratory and/or radiology orders into the order-entry system in accordance with physician orders.
Check Medicare medical necessity and obtain a patient’s signature on an Advance Beneficiary Notice when necessary.
Scan or import necessary documents into the patient record and document notes needed to support account follow-up.
Visit patient rooms to explain and obtain signatures on the Important Message from Medicare and Outpatient Status Notice.
Enter bed placement, room accommodation, service location, and status for direct admissions, transfers from other facilities, and ED admissions according to physician orders.
Perform patient status changes according to physician orders, attending physician changes, and bed transfers.
Demonstrate customer service behaviors aligned with Augusta Health’s core values and The Augusta Way.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
Retirement savings plans and financial wellness support programs.
Paid time off.
Flexible scheduling.
Career development programs, including clinical ladders, shared governance, and advancement opportunities.
Personalized onboarding with dedicated preceptors and ongoing educational support.
Tuition reimbursement.
Onsite childcare.
Free onsite parking.
24/7 armed security.
Health Fitness Reimbursement Program.
Onsite credit union and pharmacy.
Competitive pay with shift and weekend differentials.
Employee discounts at the cafeteria, gift shop, pharmacy, and local entertainment venues.