Patient Access Associate

Under general supervision, coordinates and performs multiple complex functions within the Patient Access department. Utilizes judgment to interpret department policies to resolve routine to complex inquiries/patient account problems with other departments. Identifies opportunities for process improvements and offers potential solutions. 

Participates in meetings as a representative of the department. Serves as a resource to team members for training, problem resolution, etc. Performs all duties in a manner that promotes a team concept and reflects the mission, behaviors, core values and philosophy of CT Children’s Medical Center.

Responsibilities

Administrative:

• Following department protocol provides general receptionist, secretarial support, or Health Unit Coordinator functions. 
• Performs a variety of administrative support activities in support of the unit operations.
• Responds with tact and discretion to the needs of patients and families. 
• Maintains privacy and confidentiality. 
• Assists with staffing assignments and scheduling as requested.

Registration:

• Collects and enters accurate demographic, guarantor and financial data for Emergency Department, Inpatient and Outpatient cases and Physician Practice Office appointments. 
• Verifies all required insurance and billing information and uses the proper payer plan codes. 
• Generates all necessary forms for patient visit and obtains patient/parent/legal guardian signature for Assignment/ Authorization and consent. 
• Performs pre-registration for scheduled patients and registers patients upon arrival adhering to standard department procedure. 
• Makes corrections and updates patient information in computer systems as necessary. 
• Asks patients/families whether their visit was satisfactory and attempts to address any questions/issues prior to patient departure.
• Documents thorough, clear, explanatory notes regarding reasons for incomplete information at time of registration. Documents concise and understandable comments regarding patient or guarantor interaction, efforts to collect co-payments and referrals to Financial Assistance.
• Follows-up on open items to resolve outstanding issues and complete the file.
• Reviews all documentation records regarding incomplete information at time of registration, patient or guarantor interaction, efforts to collect co-payments, estimated self-pay balances and referrals to Financial Assistance.  
•  Follows up with team member responsible for resolving the open issue to provide assistance or additional training to ensure prompt completion of the file.