What are the responsibilities and job description for the Patient Advocate position at UNITED COMMUNITY SERVICES, INC.?
We have a full-time position available for a Patient Advocate in our West Des Moines, IA clinic. We offer a competitive hourly wage and benefits package.
“UCS Healthcare values me as an employee.” “I’m given the latitude to do my job.” “UCS Healthcare is making a difference in our community.” “My supervisor is caring and understanding and is rooting for my success!”
These are just a few quotes from a recent employee survey. Many employers promise competitive salaries and benefits, but more than that is required to provide a fulfilling career. What will? How about an organizational culture of mutual respect? Or maybe a career that is not ‘corporate,’ where profits come before people?
As an integrated healthcare non-profit, we put people first. We pay for a vast majority of your health insurance premium as part of our robust benefits package. We provide real opportunities for advancement and growth while doing work that makes a difference in our communities. We are inclusive and firmly believe that bringing your authentic self to work improves teams and helps our clients thrive.
If you're seeking a workplace that aligns with your values, where your contributions are appreciated, and where you can make a tangible impact, consider joining our team. Rather than waiting for others to catch up with UCS Healthcare, apply with us. Our team members tell us that they are grateful they did. Join us in our mission to create hope for healing and lifelong well-being.
We have a commitment to supporting working parents through our family-friendly policies and practices. We’re seeking to create a workplace that supports employees at work and in life. These practices reflect our belief that when people feel supported as whole individuals, they do their best work and thrive.
Reports to: Grants/Outreach supervisor
Job Summary:
To discuss financial responsibility with patients about their services that are covered/not covered under their insurance plan and/or if they qualify for other assistance.
As part of UCS Healthcare, team members will follow all laws and regulations, including those at the Federal, State, and Local level. They will also adhere to all UCS policies and procedures, including patient confidentiality, HIPAA/ 42CFR part 2, and all CARF requirements. All team members will operate in alignment with UCS Healthcare’s core values, work effectively in a team environment, provide or support patient-centered services, and strive to assist UCS Healthcare in delivering the highest level of care.
Essential Functions (80%):
- Help patients understand their financial responsibility.
- Check insurance eligibility through clearinghouse.
- Follow complete check-in process for each patient.
- Assist in auditing intakes for accuracy.
- Collect payments for services rendered.
- Reconcile/close cash sheet daily.
- Eligibility batches – start/delegate/follow up with staff.
- Assist staff with grant/insurance questions.
- Assist patients in applying for grants
- Review income/hardships for Grant eligibility
- Create/Monitor/Follow up Grant exceptions.
- Complete Grant follow-up paperwork as needed
- Investigating/resolving issues related to patient accounts.
- Discuss/Establish payment plan with patients.
- Audit POIs for accuracy.
- Assist/review patients' financial concerns regarding take homes.
- Provide staff coverage at the front desk as needed.
- Primary and secondary insurance knowledge – EOBs.
- Review MATPP/SUPTRS Grant payor monthly, any updates/changes with patients.
Other Functions: (20%)
- Regularly meet with Billing Manager to discuss & resolve billing obstacles
- Assist in auditing providers' schedules.
- Regularly attend weekly/monthly staff meetings.
- Complete required training in a timely manner
- Other duties as assigned
Minimum Required Knowledge, Education, Experience, Skills, and Abilities:
- Ensure accuracy and accountability in providing patient-centered care.
- Ability to handle confidential work with tact and discretion.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.
- Strong leadership skills.
- Detail-oriented.
- Ability to work with minimal supervision and work well in both individual and group environments.
- Ability to understand and apply guidelines, policies, and procedures.
- Ability to perform in stressful situations.
- Ability to use resources with good analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Fast learner and able to adapt to change quickly.
Preferred Knowledge, Education, Experience, Skills, and Abilities:
- General office experience preferred.
- Medical Billing knowledge preferred.
- Experience working with state and federal Grants preferred.
- Associates degree is preferred.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Proficient in TEAMS environment.
- Highly Analytical
Physical Requirements:
- Must be accessible by phone or email regularly to address operational needs
- Communicating with others to exchange information.
- Ability to sit for extended periods and work on a computer.
- A valid driver's license is required and liability insurance or an equivalent means of reliable personal transportation and coverage as travel within the state of Iowa may be necessary.
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Full-time, Monday- Friday 6:00 AM-3:00 PM