Patient Access Specialist I

Memorial Health • Springfield, MA

20h • $16 - $24

About The Position

The Patient Access Specialist plays a key role in ensuring that patients have timely and efficient access to hospital and service area resources. This position is responsible for processing patient registration information with high accuracy, including collecting demographic and insurance details and performing financial collections.

Requirements

• High school diploma required
• Must successfully complete assigned annual education through Healthcare Business Insights
• Minimum of one (1) year of business office experience, preferably in areas such as Patient Access, billing, collections, insurance principles/practices, or accounts receivable
• Completion of 12 (twelve) hours of coursework in a business or healthcare-related field may be considered in lieu of business office experience
• Comprehensive knowledge of tasks performed across various Patient Access Service areas to ensure customer satisfaction and accurate reimbursement
• Excellent interpersonal and patient relations skills, with the ability to maintain emotional composure and exercise sound judgment in all interactions
• Working knowledge of computers, including the ability to enter and retrieve data from registration software and other required applications/systems
• Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to maintain professionalism in high-pressure situations
• Flexibility and the ability to exercise judgment and initiative, especially in stressful or rapidly changing environments
• Ability to manage competing priorities independently and effectively
• Strong negotiation and persuasion skills when educating and communicating with patients and families

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience in Patient Access is highly desirable
• Knowledge of medical terminology, medical procedural (CPT), and diagnosis (ICD-10 CM) coding, as well as hospital billing claims is preferred but not required

Responsibilities

• Collect and verify patient demographics, insurance information, and financial details. Ensure all registration data is accurate and complete, facilitating the patient’s timely access to services.
• Prepare and present legal, ethical, and compliance-related documents, ensuring patients understand and complete all required forms during registration. Maintain knowledge of JCAHO standards, Patient Rights and Responsibilities, HIPAA regulations, and payer requirements.
• Provide scheduling services for mammography screenings, following established protocols for insurance, exam type, patient preferences, and urgency.
• Act as a liaison between Patient Access Services and ancillary departments, facilitating communication and ensuring a smooth flow of information and services for patients.
• Perform financial collections, including co-pays and deposits at the point of service. Educate patients regarding billing, insurance coverage, and payment options.
• Adhere to CMS Conditions of Participation, obtaining necessary signatures (ABN, consent forms) as required by CMS regulations.
• Support patient care areas as needed, helping ensure timely and accurate documentation for patient services.
• Complete all other duties and special projects as assigned by management to support the department's goals and ensure consistent patient care.

What This Job Offers

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