Patient Benefits Coordinator: Closing Date: 11/9/26

Ponca Tribe of Nebraska•Omaha, NE

13d•$20 - $30•Onsite

About The Position

The Patient Benefits Coordinator helps Ponca Health Services patients obtain and maintain health insurance and other available resources. The coordinator assists with applications, renewals, and required documentation; explains coverage and benefits; and maintains accurate benefits information in the electronic health record. Reporting to the Patient Access and Benefits Supervisor, the position collaborates with Patient Access, billing, and Purchased/Referred Care staff to address coverage concerns and support access to services across three clinics. The position is based primarily at the Omaha clinic, with support to Lincoln and Norfolk as assigned, and provides outreach and education throughout the Ponca service area. The position has no supervisory duties. It assists patients with benefits eligibility screening and applications; final coverage and eligibility decisions are made by the applicable agency or payer. PRC determinations are referred to designated PRC staff. The work is primarily in an office environment, with occasional travel to other locations. Staff may sometimes work with patients or clients in crisis and are expected to remain calm and demonstrate empathy, understanding, respect, and advocacy.

Requirements

Associate degree in health or a related field, or an equivalent combination of experience and education in a related field.
Two years of experience in medical insurance or benefits.
Ability to keep abreast of current changes in eligibility policies and regulations.
Knowledge of established procedures and required forms associated with various health insurance programs.
Computer proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Successfully pass drug and alcohol testing, education, character, and criminal background checks.
Ability and willingness to travel.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in a health-related field.
Experience using an electronic health record, preferably Aprima.
Knowledge of Medicare, Medicaid, Marketplace insurance, and other health coverage resources.
Experience coordinating with Patient Access, billing, or Purchased/Referred Care programs.
Valid driver’s license and insurability.
One year of experience working with Native Americans or Native American organizations.
Knowledge and understanding of Public Law 93-638, the Indian Self-Determination Act.
Preference will be given to Ponca Tribe of Nebraska members or members of a federally recognized Tribe; all qualified individuals are eligible.

Responsibilities

Provide benefits outreach and education to patients and eligible community members throughout the Ponca service area, primarily at the Omaha clinic and supporting Lincoln and Norfolk as assigned.
Provide support and advocacy by sharing current information and clarifying programs including Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Administration, Medical Services, entitlements, Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, state programs, Medicare Prescription Drug Programs, Affordable Care Act Marketplace Insurance, private insurance, and other applicable resources.
Facilitate communications to determine potential eligibility for alternate resources.
Help patients complete and submit applications for health coverage and other resources, gather required documentation, respond to notices, and complete renewals and recertifications.
Educate PHS staff about available benefits, common coverage questions, and referral procedures for patients needing benefits assistance.
Coordinate with Patient Access, billing, Purchased/Referred Care, clinical staff, and other Tribal programs to address coverage concerns and connect patients with appropriate resources.
Verify and maintain accurate insurance and benefits information in Aprima and other approved systems, including coverage status and documentation needed for billing and care coordination.
Track pending applications, missing documentation, renewal deadlines, and coverage changes; follow up with patients and agencies and document the status of benefits assistance.
Maintain accurate documentation of benefits assistance and outreach activities and complete required reports.
Maintain patient confidentiality and follow PHS privacy and security policies.
Perform other related duties as assigned by the Patient Access and Benefits Supervisor.
Support patients receiving medical, dental, behavioral health, and specialty services by addressing coverage questions and coordinating benefits assistance with appropriate staff.
Assist with onboarding and training staff in established benefits workflows, referral procedures, and documentation practices under the supervisor's direction.
Attend required training and team meetings and recommend improvements to benefits workflows and patient service.