Referral Specialist-Lakeview, MI

SHERIDAN COMMUNITY HOSPITAL•Lakeview, MI

About The Position

The Referral Specialist at Lakeview Health Partners coordinates patient referrals, obtains necessary authorizations, and helps ensure timely access to specialty care and diagnostic services. The role works closely with providers, patients, insurance companies, and outside healthcare facilities, requiring strong organization, attention to detail, and customer service. The specialist processes referrals and supporting records, schedules outside appointments, communicates instructions and referral status to patients, and tracks referrals through completion. The position also supports clinic operations, maintains patient confidentiality and HIPAA compliance, and assists with additional clinical support responsibilities as assigned and appropriate to qualifications.

Requirements

High school diploma required.
One to three years of experience in a medical clinic setting.
Experience working with electronic medical records required.
Knowledge of medical terminology and healthcare referral processes.
Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities and meet daily deadlines.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Professional telephone etiquette and exceptional customer service skills.
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with providers and team members.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to accurate documentation and patient confidentiality.

Nice To Haves

Completion of an accredited Certified Medical Assistant or Registered Medical Assistant training program.
Experience with ICD-10 coding.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and process patient referrals to specialists, diagnostic services, and outside healthcare facilities.
Ensure referral forms, medical records, and supporting documentation are accurate, complete, and submitted promptly.
Obtain insurance authorizations for referrals, procedures, and diagnostic testing as required.
Schedule appointments with outside providers and communicate appointment information and instructions to patients.
Process referrals within 3 to 5 business days once all required documentation is received.
Maintain accurate referral tracking logs and monitor outstanding referrals through completion.
Enter and update referral information in the electronic medical record.
Communicate with patients, providers, insurance companies, and outside healthcare facilities.
Respond promptly to patient inquiries, telephone calls, and voicemail messages about referral status.
Maintain an updated list of approved specialists, providers, and healthcare facilities.
Identify and resolve referral-related issues in collaboration with providers and clinical staff.
Maintain patient confidentiality and ensure compliance with HIPAA regulations.
Participate in quality improvement initiatives and support efficient clinic operations.
Assist with additional clinical support responsibilities as assigned and appropriate to qualifications.