General Summary
The Access Specialist ensures timely and efficient patient entry into healthcare services by delivering excellent customer service during the registration process. This role involves clear communication with patients and their representatives, accurate collection of reimbursement details, and initiation of legal medical and financial documentation.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Welcome and interview patients or their representatives, gathering precise demographic and insurance data for medical and financial records. Obtain proper admission consent for treatment authorization, information release, insurance verification, and payment guarantees. Verify insurance details electronically and resolve any discrepancies before completing registration. Inform patients of their rights in line with Federal, State, and accreditation standards. Respond promptly and effectively to patient inquiries, maintaining confidentiality in appropriate settings. Collect applicable copayments and guide patients to the correct treatment areas after registration. Accurately enter patient information and promptly scan necessary documents for verification and financial review. Identify registrations requiring pre-authorization or pre-certification, ensuring orders include two patient identifiers, dated provider signatures, appropriate diagnoses, and correct test orders. Document relevant information on patient accounts and demonstrate understanding of billing requirements, denials, and the importance of accurate registration and documentation. Ensure compliance with Medicare Secondary Payor rules, HIPAA privacy standards, patient rights, advanced directives, consent to treat, EMTALA, and accreditation requirements. Facilitate completion of HIPAA acknowledgments and provide financial assistance information. Communicate professionally and respectfully with patients, offices, and colleagues. Produce and distribute patient cost estimates, issue Advance Beneficiary Notices (ABN), and collect copays or cost shares at the time of service. Maintain organized and clean workspaces, work efficiently and systematically, manage time effectively, and meet attendance and punctuality standards. Keep admission desks and reception areas tidy and orderly.

Education
High school diploma or equivalent required. Preferred qualifications include certificates or diplomas in Medical Front Office, CNA, or Medical Terminology.

Experience
At least six months of experience in office, call center, customer service, or healthcare settings is required. Proficiency with computers and standard office equipment is necessary.

Certification/License
Not applicable.

Mental/Physical Requirements
Ability to focus and pay close attention to detail under time constraints. Requires normal mental concentration for variable tasks and moderate concentration for repetitive tasks over extended periods. Extensive computer use with frequent interruptions. Physical ability to stand, walk, sit, reach, assist and transport patients in wheelchairs, and lift up to 10 pounds.

Working Conditions
Standard office environment with occasional exposure to noise, fumes, chemicals, hazards, and diseases. Shift work is required.

This opportunity is based in a regional healthcare setting serving the Midwest area, offering a supportive team environment, competitive benefits, and growth potential.