What are the responsibilities and job description for the Patient Access Representative position at St. Francis-Emory Healthcare?
Description
Join St. Francis–Emory Healthcare, a 376-bed community-connected hospital in Columbus, GA, that blends cutting-edge care with hometown purpose. As part of the ScionHealth network, St. Francis has been recognized and awarded multiple high-performing honors by U.S. News & World Report, and received multiple disease-specific certifications from the Joint Commission, and was a rated Top Large Hospital in Georgia. St.Francis also delivers advanced heart,orthopedic, and women’s care services. At St. Francis, you will experience a culture of excellence where your work directly shapes the health of our community.
Job Summary
The Clinic – Patient Access Representative assists in coordinating patient access services including scheduling, registration, insurance verification, and pre-certification. This role supports efficient clinic operations by providing excellent customer service and ensuring that all financial, demographic, and authorization requirements are accurately completed before the patient’s visit.
Essential Functions
Education
Join St. Francis–Emory Healthcare, a 376-bed community-connected hospital in Columbus, GA, that blends cutting-edge care with hometown purpose. As part of the ScionHealth network, St. Francis has been recognized and awarded multiple high-performing honors by U.S. News & World Report, and received multiple disease-specific certifications from the Joint Commission, and was a rated Top Large Hospital in Georgia. St.Francis also delivers advanced heart,orthopedic, and women’s care services. At St. Francis, you will experience a culture of excellence where your work directly shapes the health of our community.
Job Summary
The Clinic – Patient Access Representative assists in coordinating patient access services including scheduling, registration, insurance verification, and pre-certification. This role supports efficient clinic operations by providing excellent customer service and ensuring that all financial, demographic, and authorization requirements are accurately completed before the patient’s visit.
Essential Functions
- Register and pre-register patients by collecting and verifying demographic and financial data
- Address patient financial responsibilities including co-pays and co-insurance at the time of registration
- Verify insurance coverage, ensure compliance with payer requirements, and obtain necessary prior authorizations or referrals
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of insurance payer guidelines
- Respond to patient and customer inquiries professionally and in a timely manner
- Manage daily appointment schedules, including placing reminder calls and contacting referred patients
- Accurately collect and reconcile co-pays
- Scan and upload documents, test results, and referral information into the electronic medical record (EMR)
- Review patient charts prior to scheduled visits to confirm all required documentation is present
- Prioritize tasks and complete assignments efficiently and accurately
- Provide coverage and support to other front office roles as needed
- Perform other duties as assigned
- Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced clinic environment
- Customer service-oriented with a professional and compassionate demeanor
- Knowledge of healthcare billing and insurance terminology preferred
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook)
- Experience with EMR systems and scheduling software desirable
- Knowledge of medical terminology and CPT/ICD coding
- Familiarity with insurance processes and regulations
- Frequent use of computer, phone, and other office equipment
- Occasional walking, standing, and light lifting (up to 25 lbs)
- Visual and auditory acuity required for data entry and patient communication
- Ability to work in environments with exposure to communicable diseases, odors, and biohazards
- Outpatient clinic setting
- Interaction with patients, providers, and administrative staff
- Fast-paced, patient-focused work environment requiring flexibility and accuracy
Education
- High school diploma or GED
- None Required
- One (1) year of experience in a medical office or similar healthcare setting
- One (1) year of customer service experience