Referral Specialist II

Northwest Human Services, Inc. • Salem, OR

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Northwest Human Services is seeking a detail-oriented, patient-focused Referral Specialist II to coordinate specialty care and help patients navigate the healthcare system. The role bridges primary care providers, patients, specialists, and insurance companies to support a smooth, timely referral process. The position is based at the West Salem Clinic in Salem, Oregon, and is full-time, Monday through Friday. It is non-exempt and reports to the Patient Access Team Supervisor.

The Referral Specialist II monitors referral requests, arranges specialty appointments, obtains insurance pre-authorizations, responds to patient questions, and helps address barriers to care. The role also coordinates with providers, specialists, and insurance representatives and maintains accurate referral and authorization records, including ensuring consultation reports are received and documented in patient medical records.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Proficiency in medical terminology.
• Current working knowledge of health insurance coverage, referral procedures, and pre-authorization requirements.
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with patients, providers, insurance representatives, and the public.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain accuracy in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and follow established procedures.

Responsibilities

• Monitor daily referral requests and facilitate specialty appointments, ensuring referrals are processed accurately and within established timelines.
• Obtain pre-authorizations for specialty services, procedures, and medications through insurance companies, HMOs, and other third-party payers.
• Respond to patient questions, explain referral processes, coordinate appointments and interpreter services, and help resolve barriers to accessing care.
• Communicate with providers, specialists, and insurance representatives to coordinate services and keep the referral process moving forward.
• Track referrals, document authorization activity, and ensure consultation reports are received and recorded in patient medical records.
• Manage assigned responsibilities independently, follow established procedures, and take ownership of referral-related work.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Group life insurance.
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage, 100% paid by the employer.
• 403(b) retirement plan with a 2% employer contribution and up to a 3% employer match.
• Flexible Spending Account.
• Paid time off: 10 hours per month for full-time positions, increasing up to 20 hours monthly with tenure.
• 7½ paid holidays per year plus 2 paid floating holidays for full-time positions.
• Continuing education and training benefits.
• Employee Healthy Living Program, including gym membership and smoking cessation.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED