What are the responsibilities and job description for the PATIENT ACCESS SPECIALIST position at FAIRFIELD MEMORIAL HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION?
NATURE OF WORK
Fairfield Memorial Hospital is seeking a detail‑oriented, customer focused Patient Access Specialist to support clinic operations across Horizon Healthcare. This role is essential in ensuring a smooth, positive experience for patients by accurately collecting demographic and insurance information, scheduling appointments, and supporting efficient clinic workflows. The Patient Access Specialist facilitates communication between patients, clinical teams, and external partners while maintaining accuracy, professionalism, and adherence to FMH standards. The Patient Access Specialist position requires strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work in a fast‑paced environment where accuracy and timeliness directly support continuity of care and organizational objectives.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Greet patients and visitors, ensuring a welcoming, professional check‑in experience.
- Collect, verify, and update demographic, insurance, and consent information across multiple EHR systems.
- Coordinate patient scheduling based on provider availability, clinic protocols, and patient needs.
- Confirm benefits, coverage requirements, and pre‑service authorizations when applicable.
- Secure signatures, forms, and consents in compliance with FMH policies and regulatory standards.
- Answer calls, route inquiries, schedule appointments, and provide accurate information to patients.
- Post co‑pays, balances, and other patient payments with proper documentation.
- Upload, file, and maintain protected health information following HIPAA and FMH procedures.
- Compile, verify, and transmit required information to the FMH billing department accurately and on time.
- Request outside medical records, process referrals, and communicate with external offices or agencies.
- Collaborate with clinical staff to maintain efficient patient flow and address operational needs.
- Assist with tasks assigned to support daily clinic operations and organizational goals.
COMPENSATION: $18.50 per hour
SCHEDULE: As Needed
BENEFITS
- 403(b) Retirement Plan
- Paid Leave for All Workers Act Leave (1 hour for every 40 hours worked)
WHAT FMH HAS TO OFFER
Fairfield Memorial Hospital is a mission focused healthcare organization dedicated to providing exceptional care to the patients and families we serve, with a strong commitment to improving the health and well‑being of our community through compassionate service, clinical excellence, and a supportive culture that empowers employees to do their best work. We value teamwork, professional growth, and a positive work environment where every team member plays a meaningful role in advancing our mission. FMH offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, well‑being, and long‑term professional development, and we strive to ensure employees feel valued, supported, and equipped to make a meaningful impact for the communities of Southern Illinois. FMH is a drug‑free workplace, and all candidates must complete a pre‑employment drug screening in accordance with Illinois law. We proudly uphold Equal Opportunity Employment practices and welcome applicants of all backgrounds without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or veteran status.
EDUCATION/QUALIFICATIONS
- Required: High School diploma or equivalent.
- Preferred: Prior healthcare coursework or experience.
EXPERIENCE
- Preferred: Experience with electronic medical record, handling of protected health information, registration and insurance verification in a medical office or hospital setting; Experience with Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and Word; Knowledge of general office business equipment and Internet skills.
SKILLS
- Excellent keyboarding and data‑entry accuracy
- Strong customer service and communication skills
- Ability to prioritize and multitask in a fast‑paced environment
- Professionalism and problem‑solving abilities to support daily clinic needs
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Excel
- Ability to work independently while maintaining accuracy and confidentiality
Salary : $19