Patient Access Specialist

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 7/2/2026

Job Summary:

The Patient Access Specialist serves as the first point of contact for patients entering the healthcare system and plays a vital role in ensuring a positive patient experience. This position is responsible for completing accurate and efficient registration, pre-registration, insurance verification, and scheduling services across various departments. The specialist collects and verifies patient demographics, insurance details, and required authorizations, while also securing necessary signatures and documentation for billing and regulatory compliance. With a strong focus on customer service, the Patient Access Specialist communicates clearly with patients, families, and clinical staff to facilitate timely access to care. This role requires exceptional attention to detail, professionalism, and a commitment to maintaining patient confidentiality and data accuracy.

Schedule: 

• Full-Time, Monday-Friday
• 10:30AM - 6:30PM

Essential Job Functions: 

• Accurately collect and enter patient demographic, insurance, and contact information into the registration system
• Perform pre-registration duties for scheduled services, ensuring all required data and documentation are obtained prior to the patient’s arrival
• Verify insurance coverage, benefits, and eligibility for scheduled services or admissions
• Obtain and document prior authorizations and referrals as required by payers and departmental protocols
• Schedule appointments and procedures based on provider orders, clinical urgency, and department availability
• Coordinate across departments to ensure proper sequencing and patient preparation
• Greet patients and visitors in a professional and courteous manner, providing assistance and answering questions regarding services and registration processes
• Educate patients on financial responsibilities, payment options, and insurance requirements
• Address patient concerns or escalate complex issues to appropriate personnel
• Ensure all required forms, consents, and signatures are completed and scanned into the patient’s electronic medical record
• Maintain compliance with HIPAA, EMTALA, and policies related to patient confidentiality and data security
• Collect copayments, deductibles, and other patient-responsible balances at the time of service or admission
• Review and explain financial assistance programs or refer patients to financial counselors when appropriate
• Work closely with clinical departments, case management, HIM, and billing teams to ensure smooth patient flow and accurate data handoffs
• Communicate appointment or registration changes to appropriate departments in a timely manner
• Operate multiple electronic systems, including EHR, registration software, scheduling platforms, and insurance portals
• Troubleshoot system issues or data discrepancies and escalate technical problems as needed
• Use the organization's secure messaging platform in accordance with departmental protocols, including timely receipt and responses to communications
• Perform other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Medical terminology
• Comprehensive knowledge of healthcare insurance processes, including verification of benefits, prior authorizations, referrals, copayments, and claims procedures.
• Electronic Medical Records (EMR) systems
• Quality assurance and accreditation standards
• Understanding of HIPAA regulations, patient confidentiality laws and patient rights
• Effective English communication in verbal and written format
• Quality work including attention to detail and accuracy
• Advanced computer proficiency
• Ability to recognize and respond appropriately to the emotional, cultural, and physical needs of patients and their families
• Carry out customer service standards
• Prioritize tasks effectively through managing workload based on urgency and importance
• Capacity to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Continuously learn and improve through staying up to date on job specific trends, policies and new technologies
• Successfully demonstrate organization-wide performance review competencies

Qualifications:

• Demonstrates eligibility for employment in the U.S.
• High school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent required
• Associate’s degree in a healthcare related field preferred
• Experience working in a hospital or healthcare environment preferred
• Must possess a cell phone th