Patient Financial Counselor

Outreach Community Health Centers•Milwaukee, WI

About The Position

The Patient Financial Counselor plays a vital role in assisting patients with financial resources to eliminate barriers to care while optimizing revenue for the organization. This position connects patients to available financial assistance programs, helps them navigate their insurance benefits, and proactively manages accounts for those with complex financial needs.

Requirements

Strong commitment to Outreach Community Health Center’s mission.
Expertise in customer service principles, patient needs assessment, and quality standards.
Working knowledge of basic accounting principles.
Proficiency in healthcare software and electronic medical records (EMRs).
Excellent communication and organizational skills.
Ability to adapt to frequent changes in healthcare policies and procedures.
Understanding of office procedures in a healthcare setting.
Ability to handle and maintain confidential/HIPAA-protected information.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret business periodicals, professional journals, and regulations.
Ability to compose professional reports, correspondence, and presentations.
Proficiency in basic math operations, including computing rates, ratios, and percentages.
Capability to follow detailed instructions and handle standardized problem-solving situations.
Basic computer skills, including experience with word processing and spreadsheets.
High School Diploma with at least two years of experience in medical insurance and/or financial advocacy, OR Associate Degree in business or a related field with at least one year of experience in medical insurance and/or financial advocacy.
Experience with electronic medical records/patient management systems or willingness to learn.

Responsibilities

Assess patient accounts for potential eligibility for Outreach/enrollment referral or Sliding Fee programs.
Clearly explain rates, charges, services, discounts, contracts, and clinic payment policies.
Assist patients in setting up payment arrangements.
Educate and contact patients about outstanding balances and Sliding Fee requirements before service dates.
Maintain accurate and detailed notes on all patient interactions in their accounts.
Ensure that Sliding Fee applications are completed correctly and comply with HRSA program requirements.
Complete all required Good Faith Estimate activities daily.
Review and follow up on Bad Debt cases before scheduled appointments.
Coordinate financial counseling efforts between Registration and Billing departments as needed.
Address patient billing and collection-related customer service concerns.
Uphold patient confidentiality and maintain a professional demeanor in all interactions.
Prioritize workload to prevent backlogs and provide support to team members as needed.
Process Sliding Fee applications within 48 hours of submission.
Provide coverage for Patient Service Representatives when necessary.
Perform other duties as assigned.