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Patient Financial Counselor (Surgery Center)

COLUMBUS ORTHOPAEDIC

Job Summary:

The Surgery Center Patient Financial Counselor plays a crucial role in ensuring that patients understand the financial aspects of their healthcare. This role provides guidance on insurance coverage, payment options, and billing procedures, helping patients navigate the financial complexities associated with medical treatment.

Responsibilities:

· Patient Communication:

o Communicate with patients and insurance companies via phone or in person to ensure patients understand their financial obligation.

o Appropriately document and report payment information.

o Educate patients about available payment options and financial assistance programs.

o Negotiate and strategize patient payment arrangements.

o Provide explanation of billing practices to include multiple EOBs from surgery center, provider/surgeon, anesthesia, and pathology if applicable.

· Insurance Verification and Financial Clearance:

o Verify insurance benefits and eligibility.

o Determine patients’ financial responsibility for surgery.

o Assist patients in understanding their insurance coverage and financial obligations.

· Billing and Balances:

o Create payment plans and document accordingly, following the facility policies

o Create upfront collections log for day of surgery collections

o Gather confidential medical and financial information from patients.

o Determine the best options for patients to resolve balances.

o Prepare log for cash, checks, and credit card payments received by the center through the mail and over-the-counter from patients. Provide the log and supporting documentation to the RCM team on a daily basis.

o Prepare daily bank deposit and take cash to the bank and process checks through the automated deposit tool each day.

· Financial Assistance:

o Identify financial assistance programs for patients unable to meet their financial obligations.

o Assist patients in applying for financial aid when necessary.

· Collaboration:

o Work closely with other healthcare professionals, including surgeons and administrative staff, to support patients with financial responsibility.

o Coordinate with revenue cycle team and business office to maximize upfront collections

· Monthly Reporting:

o Track and report up front collections each month

o Track and report patient payment plans

· Facility Duties:

o Oversee receipt and distribution of mail each day

o Maintain business associate agreements

o Serve as HIPAA officer

o Assist clinic staff (MA, pre-cert, rev cycle) with verifying reimbursement, implant pricing and self-pay estimates

o Coordinate with anesthesia billing company as needed

Qualifications:

· High school diploma or equivalent (some positions may require additional education or certification).

· Strong communication skills and empathy.

· Knowledge of medical billing, insurance, and financial assistance programs.

· Experience in patient financial counseling or related roles is preferred.

· Proficiency in relevant software and electronic health records (EHR) systems.

Schedule and Benefits:

· Full-time position, Monday through Friday

· Closed New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day/Day After, and Christmas Day

· Paid Time Off

· Health Insurance Coverage (benefits starting the first of the month after start date)

· Dental, Vision, Life, Short-term Disability and Long-term Disability insurance offered

· Flexible Spending Account and Dependent Care available for pre-tax childcare expenses

· Competitive compensation, 401k Plan with profit-sharing

· Uniform allowance

· Wellness benefits

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Dependent health insurance coverage
• Disability insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work setting:

• In-person
• Medical office

Ability to Relocate:

• Columbus, MS 39705: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person