Patient Access Specialist

Quick Facts

• Role: Patient Access Specialist

Description

The Patient Access Specialist supports patient scheduling and registration by collecting accurate demographic and authorization information, verifying insurance eligibility, and helping patients understand financial responsibilities. The role manages appointment outreach, performs medical necessity checks when needed, and coordinates with hospital departments using patient-friendly communication.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality customer service and respond to patient questions and concerns

• Maintain patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA

• Collect and verify patient demographic information and update it in the registration system

• Schedule and direct patients through NMHC systems; reach out to patients to schedule appointments

• Perform medical necessity checks and communicate options if an appointment fails

• Verify insurance eligibility/benefits using online tools or phone; run real-time eligibility (RTE) and follow out-of-network policies

• Inform patients of issues securing the financial account for their encounter; complete out-of-pocket estimations as requested

• Collect authorization numbers in applicable systems

• Use Epic to enter handoff notes and send descriptive Epic messages/telephone encounters to scheduling staff

• Double-check orders/test types, preps, conflicts with other tests, timing/location, and prevent duplicate patient records

• Ensure minimum data set for complete registration and monitor registration/scheduling quality metrics

• Identify problems via account activity analysis and initiate appropriate resolutions

• Participate in Quality Assurance reviews to ensure integrity of patient data

• Cross-train across departments and support process improvements

• Act as a training resource for new staff

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent

• 2–3 years customer service or medical office experience

• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills

• Proficiency in computer data-entry/typing

• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English

• Basic computer skills

• Ability to type 40 WPM

• Ability to multi-task

• Customer service oriented

• Excellent organizational, time management, analytical, and problem solving skills

Benefits

• Wide range of benefits supporting physical, emotional, and financial well-being and protection for unexpected life events.

• Benefits details available via the benefits page provided in the posting.