Patient Access Associate

Job Overview

Overview

The Patient Access Associate creates accurate and thorough registration records for each patient visit. Secures appropriate signatures, financial information and documents. Screens for benefit eligibility on appropriate accounts. Initiates collection process for patients that have not been pre-registered and informs them of deductibles, coinsurance and copayments. Interacts in a customer focused and compassionate manner to ensure patients and their representative’s needs are met, and that they understand the medical center’s policies for the resolution of patient financial liabilities and the various available payment options.

Why UnityPoint Health? 

• Commitment to our Team – We’ve been named a  Top 150 Place to Work in Healthcare 2022  by Becker’s Healthcare for our commitment to our team members. 
• Culture – At UnityPoint Health, you Come for a fulfilling career and experience  a culture  guided by uncompromising values and unwavering belief in doing what's right for the people we serve. 
• Benefits – Our competitive  Total Rewards  program offers benefits options that align with your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you’re in. 
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commitment – We’re committed to ensuring you have a voice that is heard regardless of role, race, gender, religion, or sexual orientation. 
• Development – We believe equipping you with support and  development opportunities  is an essential part of delivering a remarkable employment experience. 
• Community Involvement – Be an essential part of our core purpose—to improve the health of the people and communities we serve. 

Visit us at UnityPoint.org/careers to hear more from our team members about why UnityPoint Health is a great place to work.  https://dayinthelife.unitypoint.org/  

Responsibilities

Registration

• Accurately and thoroughly collects, analyzes and records patient demographic, insurance/financial and clinical data in computer system.
• Completes eligibility check and obtains benefits though electronic means or via phone contact with insurance carriers or other agencies.
• Contacts patients/families/physicians to obtain additional demographic/insurance information and update in computer system if needed in order to proceed with verification process.
• Verifies that complete and valid orders are on file for each patient.
• Obtains information and completes MSPQ and other payer-specific documents.
• Reviews and explains all registration forms prior to obtaining signatures from patient or appropriate patient representative.
• Notifies patients of need for ABN (for Medicare) or no covered waiver requirements.
• Documents on accounts using hospital account note with activity comments to ensure easy account follow-up.
• Requests patient to bring required documents on day of service, i.e., physician orders, insurance cards, claim forms, liability information, photo ID, etc.
• Ensures each patient’s identification band is correct.
• Arranges or assists with patient transport as necessary.

Collections

• Explains benefits and requests copay as well as deductible and coinsurance as applicable.
• Identifies prearranged payment commitment and follows instructions as outlined by the financial clearance department.
• Ensures that all monies collected are secured or turned over to Cashier.
• Balances cash drawer daily.
• Identifies patients in financial hardship and refers to Patient Financial Coordinators/Certified Application Counselors for charity/financial assistance.
• Refers to Cash Posting Specialists patients requiring payment plans.
• Identifies payer requirements for preauthorization. If preauthorization not in place, contact Financial Clearance Department.

Basic UPH Performance Criteria

• Demonstrates the UnityPoint Health Values and Standards of Behaviors as well as adheres to policies and procedures and safety guidelines.
• Demonstrates ability to meet business needs of department with regular, reliable attendance.
• Employee maintains current licenses and/or certifications required for the position.
• Practices and reflects knowledge of HIPAA, TJC, DNV, OSHA and other federal/state regulatory agencies guiding healthcare.
• Completes all annual education and competency requirements within the calendar year.
• Is knowledgeable of hospital and department compliance requirements for federally funded healthcare programs (e.g. Medicare and Medicaid) regarding fraud, waste and abuse. Brings any questions or concerns regarding compliance to the immediate attention of hospital administrative staff. Takes appropriate action on concerns reported by department staff related to compliance.

Qualifications