What are the responsibilities and job description for the Financial Counselor position at Swope Health?
The Financial Counselor supports patients in understanding and managing the financial aspects of their care at Swope Health. This role assists patients with insurance verification, financial assistance applications, payment arrangements, and education regarding available coverage options. The Financial Counselor ensures positive patient experience while maintaining compliance with federal, state, and payer regulations, contributing to the financial sustainability of Swope Health’s mission-driven services.
Key Responsibilities
Patient Financial Support
- Provide clear, compassionate guidance to patients regarding insurance benefits, out‑of‑pocket costs, and available financial assistance programs.
- Assist patients with completing applications for Medicaid, Marketplace plans, sliding fee discounts, and other assistance programs.
- Explain billing statements, charges, and payment options in a patient‑friendly manner.
Insurance Verification & Eligibility
- Verify insurance coverage, benefits, and authorization requirements prior to services.
- Communicate coverage limitations or financial obligations to patients and clinical staff.
- Maintain accurate documentation of eligibility determinations and patient interactions.
Financial Counseling & Collections
- Establish payment plans in accordance with Swope Health policies.
- Collect co‑pays, deductibles, and outstanding balances while maintaining professionalism and sensitivity.
- Identify and escalate complex financial issues to leadership as needed.
Compliance & Documentation
- Ensure all activities comply with HIPAA, HRSA guidelines, federal and state regulations, and payer requirements.
- Maintain accurate, timely, and complete documentation in the electronic health record (EHR) and billing systems.
- Participate in audits, quality reviews, and process improvement initiatives.
Collaboration & Customer Service
- Work closely with registration, billing, clinical teams, and community outreach staff to support seamless patient access.
- Provide exceptional customer service that reflects Swope Health’s mission and values.
- Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and cross‑functional initiatives.
Qualifications
Required
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in healthcare financial counseling, medical billing, insurance verification, or a related field.
- Knowledge of Medicaid, Medicare, commercial insurance, and Marketplace plans.
- Strong communication, customer service, and problem‑solving skills.
- Ability to work with diverse populations with empathy and professionalism.
Preferred
- Associate degree in Business, Healthcare Administration, Social Services, or related field.
- Experience in an FQHC or community health center setting.
- Bilingual proficiency (Spanish or other languages commonly spoken in the community).
Work Environment
- Full‑time, non‑exempt position.
- May require travel between Swope Health locations within the Kansas City area.
- Requires extended periods of computer use and patient interaction.
About Swope Health Services:
Each year, Swope Health serves over 45,000 patients, encompassing more than 200,000 visits to four counties on both sides of the state line. Our team members are proud of the work we do and the promise we've made – delivering coordinated care that values the needs of the whole person and championing better health in our community.
Swope Health is a special place that cares for the people who need it most, wherever they are in the community. As part of our promise to battle health inequities and provide high-quality, comprehensive care, we make care visible. That means we proudly deliver our promise through every action, every day.
Swope Health Services supports its team members with:
Medical benefits (including a Health Savings Account option), dental and vision
401(k) retirement plan with company match
Company-paid benefits such as life insurance, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, and Short- and Long-Term Disability
Flexible Spending Account
Paid Days Off beginning at 12 days annually, effective the first day of employment
Eight annual company-paid holidays; One annual paid personal day
Swope Health is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, veteran status or disability