Patient Registration Specialist

Tohono O•Sells, AZ

About The Position

The Patient Registration Specialist performs specialized medical records tasks, including gathering the information needed to register patients and resolving registration problems under established criteria. The role is located within TONHC Hospital and Health Centers and involves compiling, recording, and reviewing medical record data. The incumbent works under the general supervision of the Supervisor or designee. The position may require temporary relocation to Sells Hospital, Santa Rosa Health Center, San Simon Health Center, or San Xavier Health Center.

Requirements

High school diploma or General Education Diploma.
Six months of work experience in patient registration or medical records maintenance, or an equivalent combination of training, education, and closely related work experience.
Type at least 40 words per minute.
Successfully complete a Medical Terminology course.
Hold certification in Healthcare Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
Demonstrate knowledge of Tohono O'odham culture, customs, and traditions.
Demonstrate knowledge of applicable federal, state, and tribal laws, regulations, and requirements.
Demonstrate knowledge of medical terminology, medical records management, medical forms and formats, physiology, major anatomical systems, and related disease processes.
Demonstrate knowledge of confidentiality requirements, including the Privacy Act of 1974 and HIPAA, as well as the Freedom of Information Act (FROIA) and the Drug and Alcohol Abuse Resolution.
Demonstrate knowledge of performance improvement activities and tools and participate with the Quality First team in identifying and improving processes.
Demonstrate knowledge of and ability to use RPMS and the Electronic Health Record (EHR), as well as TONHC internal controls for patient registration.
Operate word-processing, spreadsheet, and database software.
Provide superior customer service to internal and external customers.
Review, check, prepare, and maintain written and computer files.
Establish and maintain positive and effective working relationships with employees and the public.
Organize and plan work; perform medical records clerical assignments using standardized procedures, regulations, methods, and requirements.
Communicate effectively verbally and in writing, work independently, use sound judgment, meet deadlines, and provide accurate reports.
Complete a criminal background check and National FBI fingerprint check upon recommendation for hire, including a 39-month driving record check.
Possess and maintain a valid driver's license if required; have no DUIs or major traffic citations within the last three years if a license is required.
Meet the Tohono O'odham Nation tribal employer's insurance requirements for a driver's permit to operate program vehicles if required.

Responsibilities

Interview patients to obtain demographic and insurance information and authorization to bill alternate health care resources.
Determine eligibility for patients new to the health center under TONHC guidelines, establish new health records, and obtain certificates of Indian blood and other proof of tribal membership.
Identify patients whose health benefits require prior authorization and obtain that authorization.
Obtain patient signatures and file forms related to release of medical information, privacy rights, and patient rights.
Maintain third-party information in the RPMS Patient Registration Medicaid/AHCCCS and Private Insurance systems.
Obtain copies of private insurance cards and explain TONHC's lawful billing for services under PL-100-713.
Reestablish medical records for inactivated patients and assemble records according to TONHC guidelines.
Enter registration information into RPMS and check daily pulled medical records for completeness and accuracy.
Maintain medical record confidentiality and disclose information in accordance with TONHC and Arizona policies.
Schedule appointments for physicians, consultants, specialty clinics, transportation, and procedures at other facilities.
Coordinate appointments to avoid conflicts with inpatient treatment and to align clinic, transportation, and other service schedules.
Coordinate patient arrival and physician schedules with transportation services.
Verify alternate resources and ensure medical records are complete and accurate before transfer.
Search patient records for information about the physician's care plan and the need for laboratory or x-ray information.
Monitor appointments and follow-up to support continuity and quality of care.
Maintain computer-generated lists of patients seen in special clinics and report monthly on patients who do not attend.
Follow up on missed appointments through letters and referrals.
Receive incoming health center telephone calls and direct inquiries appropriately using knowledge of the organization, programs, operations, and procedures.
Initiate calls or other contacts as directed to obtain or provide information while observing confidentiality rules.
Prepare management and administrative reports according to established schedules and formats.
Comply with internal control policies and standards.
Assist with implementing TONHC policies and developing procedures for patient registration.
Participate in performance improvement teams and other assigned committees.
Contribute to a team effort and perform other job-related duties as assigned.