Objective:

The Patient Financial Counselor is responsible for ensuring that outstanding patient balances are reviewed and addressed with the patients to reduce the practice AR. Outstanding balances will require a commitment from the patient in the form a of payment plan with a guarantor's signature. The PFC will be a resource for patients to help them understand their financial obligations to the practice and will coordinate efforts with direct interactions with patients and will maintain reports and patient plan agreements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Responsible for financial counseling of patients to set guidelines of their financial obligations to the practice.
• Engage and counsel current patients regarding outstanding/unpaid balances due and secure a commitment of outstanding balances.
• Review scheduled appointments with outstanding balances and call patients in advance to explain/make arrangements for payment prior to visit.
• Interpret and explain EOBs including patient's financial responsibility to the practice.
• Assist patients with account questions and serve as a resource and liaison between practice and insurance companies.
• Explains fees and available financial plans.
• Sets up payment plans in accordance with practice policies and guidelines
• Maintain schedules of approved payment plans and updates.
• Obtains insurance benefit information/authorizations/pre-determinations for patients
• Assists patients with any questions about unpaid balances and patient refund requests
• Ensure that patient payments are accurately applied to patient's accounts and maintain excel spread sheets
• Performs other job related duties and assignments as requested

Competencies"

• Excellent computer and typing skills including Microsoft Word and Excel proficiency
• Ability to relate with people of diverse backgrounds and provide excellent customer service
• Knowledge of medical terminology, medical benefits and billing process
• Effective written and spoken communication
• Ability to meet attendance expectations

Education and Experience Required:

• Minimum HS diploma or equivalent: Associate's Degree preferred
• 1-2 years healthcare insurance and collections
• 1-2 years financial counseling preferred

Working Conditions:

• Must be able to sit at computer for extended periods
• Requires manual and finger dexterity and vision corrected to normal range
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds