Note:  This position is currently located in Alsip, IL and will be relocating to Westchester, IL early in 2024.

General Summary of Duties:

The Patient Accounts Specialist is responsible for all steps in resolving patient account balances. This process includes explanation of patient statements, benefits paid by insurance, services provided and setting up payment plans.

Special Characteristics:

This position requires a comprehensive understanding of accounts receivable management in a healthcare setting. This position requires a strong working knowledge of managed care plans, insurance carriers, referrals and precertification procedures. Strong customer service, organizational and communication skills are essential to this position. In addition, strict adherence to write-off/adjustment policies, refund policies and other accounts receivable policies as outlined in the department procedure manual is required. This position requires an ability to prioritize multiple tasks simultaneously in an occasionally stressful environment. Position requires skills in problem solving patient issues to ensure payment. Also required are midlevel computer skills, typing skills and a working knowledge of Medicare compliance and HIPAA guidelines.

Essential Functions:

1. Provide support services both on the telephone and in office as applicable for patients and authorized representatives regarding patient accounts. Calls regarding account inquiries should be returned no later than the next business day.

2. Follow up on all outstanding self-pay balances claims begins immediately upon patient receiving a statement, not to exceed 30 days from the date of billing following established guidelines.

3. Follow up on all correspondence regarding patient inquires and denials.

4. Recommend accounts for adjustments following department guidelines.

5. Answers inquiries from client staff regarding billing issues.

6. Process patient credit card payments over the telephone andelectronic check processing.

7. Participates in educational seminars.

8. Set up payment/budget plans with patients.

9. Proficiency with facets of the PM (Practice Management) system including patient registration, charge entry, insurance processing, advanced collections, reports and ledger inquiry.

10. Maintain information regarding coding, insurance carriers, managed care networks and credentialing in an organized, easy to reference format.

11. Maintain an organized, efficient and professional work environment.

12. Adhere to all policies related to HIPAA and Medicare compliance.

13. Maintains strictest confidentiality.

14. Other duties as assigned.

Education:

High school graduation and prior experience working in a medical billing office. Require minimum of 3 years accounts receivable experience preferably in one of the medical specialties of our current clients.