Referral Coordinator

CareSouth•Plaquemine, LA

41d

About The Position

The Referral Coordinator manages, tracks, and monitors outgoing and internal referrals to support patient safety, care coordination, continuity of care, and access to healthcare. The role coordinates referrals based on provider orders, follows their progress through completion, and communicates with patients and health agencies about referral status. The coordinator maintains referral contacts and resources across Baton Rouge and CSMD service areas; serves as a liaison to hospitals, specialty clinics, and other providers outside CSMD; initiates insurance authorizations; and ensures referral documentation is completed in the electronic medical record. The role works closely with the Health Information Technology department, Care Coordination, and the Clinical Care Team to coordinate care and appointments, and promptly reviews incoming referrals for critical needs requiring immediate provider attention. The position also requires adherence to CSMD policies and procedures, safety and infection-control practices, and quality-improvement standards. The coordinator is expected to attend trainings, departmental meetings, and community events, work cohesively with team members, and perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Minimum of a high school diploma.
At least three years of experience working with referrals.
Demonstrated skill in building relationships and providing excellent customer service.
Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
Ability to use computers for data entry and information retrieval.
Knowledge of referral processes for a variety of insurance plans.
Ability to research and resolve complex issues.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Pleasant telephone etiquette and ability to deal tactfully and effectively with patients.
Strong computer skills, including Microsoft applications, and familiarity with electronic health records.
Critical-thinking and detail-oriented abilities.

Nice To Haves

Certified Medical Assistant, Licensed Practical Nurse, or an associate degree in a health field.

Responsibilities

Manage, track, and monitor outgoing and internal referrals to support patient safety, care coordination, and continuity of care.
Maintain a database of health center referral contacts throughout Baton Rouge and CSMD service areas, including agencies providing health and social services.
Act as a liaison to hospitals, specialty clinics, and other providers outside CSMD to track and monitor referrals.
Coordinate referrals to health services based on provider orders.
Ensure referral documentation is completed and entered in the electronic medical record (EMR).
Maintain updated referral resources.
Complete referrals and ensure the entire referral process is finished.
Initiate referral authorizations through insurance payors.
Ensure referrals are addressed in a timely manner.
Contact patients and health agencies to follow up on referral status.
Work with the Health Information Technology department and Care Coordination to support timely care coordination.
Work with the Clinical Care Team to help coordinate patient appointments.
Promptly review incoming referrals for critical needs or matters requiring immediate provider attention.
Adhere to CSMD policies and procedures, including applicable safety, infection-control, and quality-improvement plans.
Attend in-service trainings, departmental meetings, and community events; work cohesively with team members; and perform other duties as assigned.