Patient Access Specialist-McHenry and Woodstock Hospital Part-time Evenings

Company Description

At Northwestern Medicine, every patient interaction makes a difference in cultivating a positive workplace. This patient-first approach is what sets us apart as a leader in the healthcare industry. As an integral part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to join our quest for better health care, no matter where you work within the Northwestern Medicine system. We pride ourselves on providing competitive benefits: from tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to 401(k) matching and lifecycle benefits, our goal is to take care of our employees. Ready to join our quest for better?

Job Description

Please see below for additional information regarding schedule and availability expectations. 

This position offers a unique opportunity to function similarly to a float pool role, allowing the Patient Access Specialist (PAS) to build a diverse skill set through cross-training across multiple departments while making a meaningful impact on patient access and experience.

We are seeking adaptable, motivated professionals who thrive in a dynamic environment. This role requires a high level of flexibility, with varying shifts scheduled between 12:00 PM and 12:00 AM CT. To support work-life planning, schedules are thoughtfully provided four weeks in advance.

Because this position is essential to maintaining seamless patient access across our locations, availability to work any day of the week—including weekends—is required. In return, you’ll gain valuable exposure, professional growth, and the opportunity to be part of a collaborative, patient-focused team.

The Patient Access Specialist reflects the mission, vision, and values of NMHC, adheres to the organizations Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.

The Patient Access Specialist reflects the mission, vision, and values of NMHC, adheres to the organizations Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.

Responsibilities:

• Consistently practices Patients First philosophy and adheres to high standards of customer service. This includes setting an example to peers, coworkers, etc. by fostering a team atmosphere.
• Responds to questions and concerns.
• Forwards, directs, and notifies Team Lead or Operations Coordinator of extraordinary issues as necessary.
• Maintains patient confidentiality per HIPAA regulations.
• Provides exceptional customer service to patients which establish a positive first impression of Northwestern Medicine.
• Exceeds all consumer requests and alerts management of issues or concerns that require escalation.
• Correctly identifies and collects patient demographic information in accordance with organization standards.
• Interacts with various hospital departments and physicians offices to effectively schedule and direct patients through the NMHC systems in a patient/customer friendly manner.
• Reaches out to patients to schedule an appointment as defined.
• Performs medical necessity checks as necessary for scheduled services, communicates options to patient if appointment fails.
• Informs patients of any issues with securing the financial account for their encounter.
• Completes out-of-pocket estimations as requested by patients.
• Provides training and education as needed.
• Manages work schedule efficiently, completing tasks and assignments on time.
• Completes other duties assigned by manager.
• Cross-training between various departments will take place to ensure coverage.
• Participates in Quality Assurance reviews to ensure integrity of patient data information.
• Uses effective service recovery skills to solve problems or service breakdowns when they occur.
• Utilizes department and hospital policies and procedures to complete assigned tasks.
• Adheres to all department policies and compliance requirements.
• Avoids putting patient in financial or safety risk.
• Other duties as assigned.

Communication and Collaboration:

• Communicates information to the patient regarding questions about physician referrals, insurance referrals and consultations.
• Collects authorization numbers in appropriate systems as applicable.
• Provides professional and constructive environment for communication across units/departments and resolves operational issues.
• May attend intra/interdepartmental meetings which involve walking within NM Campus.
• Communicates customer satisfaction issues to appropriate individuals.