What does a Patient Access Representative do?
Published 3 min read
A Patient Access Representative is responsible for greeting patients and visitors, verifying insurance information, and collecting co-payments. They also schedule appointments, answer phones, and provide general information about the facility to the public.
Patient Access Representative job duties include:
- Greet patients and visitors in a professional manner
- Answer patient questions and address concerns
- Schedule patient appointments
- Verify patient insurance coverage
- Pre-register new patients
- Collect patient demographics and insurance information
- Enter patient information into the hospital database
- Process patient paperwork and forms
- Prepare charts for upcoming appointments
- Balance daily cash drawer
Patient Access Representative Job Requirements
Most Patient Access Representatives have at least a high school diploma, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and many employers prefer applicants who have completed a certificate or associate’s degree program in medical office administration or a related field. Prior experience working in a healthcare setting is often required or preferred. Many Patient Access Representatives are certified through professional organizations such as the National Healthcare Association or the American Academy of Healthcare Administrative Assistants.
Patient Access Representative Skills
- Patient Access
- Registration
- Scheduling
- Insurance Verification
- Financial Counseling
- Coordination of Benefits
- Patient Rights and Responsibilities
- Release of Information
- Compliance
- Customer Service
- Multi-tasking
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How to become a Patient Access Representative
A Patient Access Representative (PAR) is a health care professional who is responsible for ensuring that patients have access to the care they need. They work with patients, families, and health care providers to ensure that all necessary information and resources are available to the patient.
The first step to becoming a PAR is to obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Many PARs have at least some college experience, although it is not required. Once you have your high school diploma, you will need to complete a training program approved by the National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM). After completing your training, you will be eligible to take the NAHAM Certified Patient Access Representative (CPAR) exam.
Once you have passed the CPAR exam, you will be able to apply for jobs as a PAR. Many hospitals and clinics require PARs to have at least one year of experience working in a related field, such as customer service or medical office administration. In addition, most employers prefer candidates who are certified by NAHAM.
If you are interested in becoming a PAR, there are many resources available to help you get started. The best way to learn more about this career is to speak with a health care provider or someone who works in the field of patient access.
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