Financial Counselor

DEFINITION OF POSITION:

The Financial counselor is responsible for working patient liability accounts to ensure they are resolved in a timely manner. This candidate should have a solid understanding of the Revenue Cycle as it relates to the entire life of a patient account from creation to payment. Basic knowledge of Commercial, Managed Care, Medicare and Medicaid insurance is preferable. Works as part of a dynamic team and possesses the ability to adapt and grow in an environment where work assignments may change frequently while resolving accounts with minimal assistance. Representative must be able to work independently as well as work closely with management and team to take appropriate steps to resolve an account.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Perform duties as assigned in a professional demeanor, which includes interacting with insurance plans, patients, physicians, attorneys and team members as needed.
• Basic computer skills to navigate through the various system applications provided for additional resources in determining account actions
• Access payer websites and discern pertinent data to resolve accounts
• Utilize all available job aids provided for appropriateness in Patient Access processes
• Document clear and concise notes in the patient accounting system regarding collection status and any actions taken on an account.
• Maintain department daily productivity goals in completing a set number of accounts while also meeting quality standards as determined by leadership
• Identify and communicate any issues including system access, patient behavior, account work-flow inconsistencies or any other patient liability collection opportunities
• Provide support for team members that may be absent or backlogged

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Researches each account using company patient accounting applications and internet resources that are made available.
• Conducts appropriate account activity on uncollected account balances by contacting patients via phone, e-mail, or online.
• Screens patients to verify eligibility for available hospital and government assistance programs.
• Complies with hospital collections policies regarding creation of payment agreements on accounts.
• Problem solves issues and creates resolution that will bring in revenue eliminating re-work.
• Updates plan IDs, adjusts patient or payor demographic/insurance information, notates account in detail, identifies payor issues and trends. Requests additional information from patients.
• Takes appropriate action to bring about account resolution timely or opens a dispute record to have the account further researched and substantiated for continued collection.
• Maintains worklists current without backlog while achieving productivity and quality standards.
• Perform special projects and other duties as needed. Assists with special projects as assigned, documents findings, and communicates results.
• Participate and attend meetings, training seminars and in-services to develop job knowledge.
• Respond timely to emails and telephone messages as appropriate.

Ensures compliance with State and Federal Laws Regulations