What are the responsibilities and job description for the Insurance Authorization Coordinator position at Iowa Digestive Disease Center?
About Us
Iowa Digestive Disease Center and Iowa Endoscopy Center are proud to serve the community and surrounding area with regard to digestive health needs. Our endoscopy center is one of only three centers in Iowa recognized by the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy is known as the leader in setting standards for excellence in gastrointestinal endoscopy and has designed the only national program recognizing quality and safety in the practice of gastrointestinal endoscopy.
Our center has also been accredited by the AAAHC, having met their rigorous quality and safety standards. AAAHC accreditation and certification is recognized nationwide as a symbol of quality that reflects an organization’s commitment to meeting certain performance standards. Our board-certified physicians specialize in: Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Diagnostic Endoscopy, Therapeutic Endoscopy, Infusion, and Advanced Therapeutics.
Education Requirements
- High school graduate or equivalent is required
- 1–2 years of experience in insurance verification, prior authorization, or medical billing required
- Working knowledge of medical terminology, CPT/ICD-10 codes, and insurance processes preferred
Job Summary
The Insurance Authorization Specialist at the Iowa Digestive Disease Center plays a critical role in our Accounts Receivable department, supporting our mission of delivering high-quality, patient-centered health care. This position is responsible for obtaining insurance authorizations and pre-certifications for procedures, diagnostic services, and referrals specific to gastroenterology and hepatology care. The specialist ensures timely and accurate communication with insurance providers and patients, facilitating smooth access to care while minimizing claim denials.
Responsibilities
- Determine and obtain required prior authorizations for GI-related services such as colonoscopies, endoscopies, infusion therapy, imaging (e.g., CT, MRI), and specialty medications
- Coordinate pre-certifications with insurance companies, ensuring all required documentation (e.g., physician notes, procedure codes, diagnosis codes) is submitted accurately and promptly
- Monitor and follow up on outstanding authorizations to ensure approvals are received before the scheduled date of service
- Assist with obtaining retro-authorizations when necessary and help resolve insurance claim denials related to missing or incorrect authorization
- Maintain current knowledge of payer-specific authorization requirements, including local and national carriers such as Medicare, Medicaid, Wellmark BCBS, and UnitedHealthcare
- Maintain compliance with HIPAA and other regulatory requirements related to patient privacy and insurance handling
- Collaborate with billing, scheduling, and clinical teams to support smooth patient workflows
Requirements
- Prioritize tasks to meet deadlines while managing multiple assignments simultaneously
- Handle high-stress scenarios calmly and confidently, ensuring productive outcomes and preserving positive relationships
- Communicate clearly and effectively in both verbal and written formats
- Strong communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills
- Capable of working efficiently in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail
- Handle sensitive information with discretion and maintain confidentiality where required
Hours
- Monday- Friday 07:00am -3:30pm
Perks and Benefits:
- Up to 6 Weeks PTO
- 6 Weeks Off for Family Bonding
- 8 Paid Holidays
- Uniform Allowances
- 401(k) with 4% matching
- Profit Sharing
- Growth Opportunities
- Weekly Free Catered Lunches
- Employee Assistance Programs
- Free Counseling Services
- Blue 365 Membership with Health Insurance
- Wellness Incentives
