What are the responsibilities and job description for the Patient Benefits Coordinator position at IRONWOOD PHYSICIANS,P.C.?
Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers has beautiful state-of-the-art integrated Cancer and Women's Centers, with locations strategically located throughout the Valley. Each one provides a superior cancer care environment with a full spectrum of cancer related services for patients. Our multi-disciplinary team approach includes surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, women's centers, diagnostic imaging services, social service support, nutritionist, integrative services, and genetic counseling.
Mission Statement: To serve the community by providing quality, comprehensive cancer care which respects the values and needs of each individual.
Overview: We are currently looking for a qualified and detail-oriented Patient Financial Service Representative. The Representative creates the copay log daily to ensure that patients have a clear understanding of what their copays, coinsurance, cost of treatment, OOP may be prior to service. This is a full time position working 40 hours per week, Monday - Friday schedule.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Insurance Verification & Eligibility
- Verify and update insurance eligibility and demographic information for new and existing patients.
- Monitor schedules for add-on appointments and re-verification needs; perform ongoing eligibility checks.
- Identify Medicare replacement plans, AHCCCS enrollment, and coordination of benefits.
- Review claim denials and discrepancies; re-verify benefits and submit for reprocessing as needed.
- Process insurance changes and communicate updates to internal teams.
Financial Responsibility & Collections
- Calculate and communicate patient cost estimates prior to treatment.
- Educate patients on copays, deductibles, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket responsibilities.
- Collect payment at time of service and follow company cash-handling policies.
- Contact patients regarding balances due and establish approved payment plans when appropriate.
- Maintain accurate daily receipt and POS records.
Patient Support & Assistance Programs
- Assist patients with insurance, billing, and payment inquiries.
- Identify patients eligible for financial assistance or copay programs.
- Complete, track, and follow up on assistance applications until resolution.
Workflow, Documentation & Compliance
- Prioritize assigned tasks and address STAT items immediately.
- Respond to routine requests within 24 hours; urgent requests same day.
- Review and update patient ledgers and cost estimates as needed.
- Accurately document all patient communications.
- Maintain HIPAA compliance and adhere to company policies and productivity standards.
Other Duties
- Support team operations as needed.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
- Knowledge of medical terminology and healthcare reimbursement processes.
- Understanding of chemotherapy-related drugs, supplies, and insurance considerations (SNF, LTC, Hospice).
- Familiarity with governmental and regulatory requirements related to collections.
- Proficiency with computer systems, EMR/billing platforms, and data entry.
- Strong attention to detail, organization, and multitasking skills.
- Ability to communicate clearly and compassionately about financial matters.
- Able to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
Education & Experience
- High School Diploma or equivalent required.
- Minimum of 3 years experience in healthcare reimbursement.
Certificates/Licenses: None required
We offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefit package including health insurance, 401K and a caring work environment. We are an E.O.E.
Please visit our website at www.ironwoodcrc.com. "Outsmarting Cancer One Patient at a Time"