Patient Financial Counselor

Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System•Winnebago, NE

About The Position

The Patient Financial Counselor helps uninsured and underinsured patients identify, apply for, and secure appropriate health coverage. The role provides individualized guidance on Medicaid, Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans and subsidies, and local, state, or nonprofit assistance resources, and serves as a subject matter expert on rules and regulations for alternate resources. The counselor works with patients and families in clinical and community settings, including clinics, hospitals, outreach events, and partner organizations. The role also builds relationships with community agencies, supports enrollment initiatives, maintains confidential records, follows up on applications, stays current on relevant healthcare policy, and advocates for patients with government or insurance entities when needed. Travel to patients’ homes, community sites, enrollment events, or partner agencies may be necessary. Scheduling may require flexibility, including some evenings and weekends.

Requirements

High school graduate or equivalent.
Experience with Medicaid enrollment processes and ACA enrollment for American Indians.
Familiarity with insurance policies, billing processes, and reimbursement systems.
Proficiency documenting in electronic medical records and practice management systems.
Strong verbal and written communication skills for interacting with medical professionals, insurance companies, and internal teams.
Skill using electronic medical record software, Microsoft applications, and third-party application portals.
Exceptional attention to detail and ability to work under deadlines while maintaining high ethical standards.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and follow strict regulatory guidelines.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively with multiple priorities and deadlines.
Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently and to communicate professionally and effectively.
Ability to read, write, calculate, reason, and analyze; strong social interaction skills; and ability to work with minimal supervision.
Ability to comply with applicable criminal-record check requirements and sign the required declaration regarding arrests and convictions of child abuse or violent felonies.

Nice To Haves

Three years of ACA Navigator, ACA Enrollment Specialist, or Medicaid Enrollment Specialist experience for American Indians.

Responsibilities

Meet with uninsured patients to assess their financial and insurance status.
Counsel patients on health coverage options, including Medicaid and Medicaid expansion programs, ACA marketplace plans and subsidies, and local, state, or nonprofit assistance resources.
Help patients complete and submit medical coverage applications and understand eligibility criteria and required documentation.
Work one-on-one with patients and families in clinical and community settings, including clinics, hospitals, outreach events, and partner organizations.
Build relationships with community partners, nonprofits, and local agencies and refer patients to additional support services when needed.
Participate in outreach initiatives, health fairs, and enrollment events to connect with underserved populations and raise awareness of available support.
Maintain accurate and confidential records of patient interactions, follow-up needs, and application progress.
Follow up with patients to monitor application status and provide additional support.
Stay informed about federal, state, and local healthcare policy updates, especially those affecting Medicaid, the ACA, and underserved communities.
Advocate for patients with government or insurance entities to help resolve eligibility or approval issues.
Travel to patients’ homes, community sites, enrollment events, or partner agencies as necessary to complete applications or online account setup.