SURGERY SCHEDULER - ORTHOPEDICS GRATIOT

The Surgery Scheduler appropriately cares for patients of all ages; assists providers in scheduling patients for surgery, accurately documents all patient care interactions; performs duties as assigned and meets deadlines. The position requires the collection of patient data and appropriate communication of results; placing patient needs as a priority; empathizing with patients; maintaining strict confidentiality and adherence to HIPPA guidelines; remaining calm and composed in difficult situations; prioritizing and organizing; adhering to policies and procedures and leading others by example.

Demonstrates excellent customer service performance in that his/her attitude and actions are at all times consistent with the standards contained in the Vision, Mission and Values of Covenant Healthcare and the commitment to Extraordinary Care for Every Generation.

Schedules patients for surgery/procedure as well as pre-surgical appointment with PCP and/or specialist, pre-operative class, post-operative appointment.

Coordinate scheduling procedures with hospital and/or Surgery Center including notification to Pre-admission testing department.

Maintain physician schedules as well as make adjustments as cancellations occur. Ensure that the physician schedules are filled according to their guidelines

Arrange surgery/procedure patients into order based on physician preferences and/or work with physician to arrange preferred order. Patients identified as priority should be treated as such.

Scan procedure sheets and orders into Epic.

Communicate with insurance companies to obtain authorization for patient's upcoming procedure. This includes sending information to insurance, entering authorization information into EPIC as well as forwarding authorization to precertification department. Maintains current with provider privileges and specialties.

Notify OR, hospital labs and scheduling of special equipment need and notify company representative(s) of planned surgeries/procedures requiring special equipment.

Maintain a thorough understanding and knowledge base of equipment needs per physician for frequently done procedures. Review orders to ensure that all special procedural needs are addressed when scheduling.

Review with patient and family the surgery/procedure information they need, explain the necessary steps the patient must take prior to surgery/procedure and contact information for specific needs.

Ensure patients have necessary testing orders for planned surgery/procedure.

Ensure clearance letters and/or completed imaging results are received prior to surgery/procedure, after provider review, ensure these items are scanned into Epic.

Answers and returns phone calls promptly to patients, insurance companies, pre-admission testing, surgical/central scheduling, and physicians.

Assist cath, EP, IR labs and OR in coordinating cases for scheduling. Performs other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

High School diploma or equivalent.

Medical Terminology.

Three (3) years' experience scheduling in a physician office or surgical services.

Three (3) years' experience as a Medical Assistant with demonstrated procedural or prior authorization experience preferred.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

Strong knowledge of scheduling and physician/procedures.

Current knowledge of physician privileges.

Ability to code surgeries/procedures using CPT coding book and ICD-10.

Ability to multi-task effectively and efficiently.

Highly motivated, self-disciplined individual.

Knowledge of proper release of information standards.

Excellent oral communication and interpersonal skills.

Detail-oriented individuals with excellent organizational skills.

Ability to effectively communicate with patients and/or surgeons.

Knowledge of existing software systems within the hospital and typing skills.

Ability to remain calm in stressful/difficult situations.

Ability to maintain confidential information.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Ability to maintain punctual attendance consistent with ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state, and local standards.

Constant sitting, talking, hearing, near vision, and midrange vision.

Occasional lifting up to 10 lbs.

Frequent depth perception, visual accommodation, and color vision.

Occasional standing, walking, twisting, reaching, feeling, and field of vision.

Must be able to sit and type for long periods of time.

Must be able to use the telephone for long periods of time.