What does a Patient Access Specialist do?
Published 3 min read
A Patient Access Specialist is responsible for ensuring that patients have the correct insurance and financial information in order to be seen by a healthcare provider. They may also be responsible for scheduling appointments and verifying benefits.
Patient Access Specialist job duties include:
- Greet patients and visitors in a professional manner
- Answer patient questions and provide guidance as needed
- Schedule patient appointments and procedures
- Verify patient insurance coverage
- Check patients in and out of the office
- Collect co-pays and other payments
- Prepare and maintain patient medical records
- Fax or mail documents as needed
- Perform general office duties as needed
- Assist with other tasks as assigned
Patient Access Specialist Job Requirements
Patient Access Specialists are responsible for ensuring that patients receive the care they need in a timely and efficient manner. They must be able to effectively communicate with patients, families, and healthcare providers. They must have a strong knowledge of medical terminology and be able to navigate electronic health records. A high school diploma or equivalent is required, and some positions may require certification from the National Association of Healthcare Access Management. Previous experience working in a healthcare setting is preferred.
Patient Access Specialist Skills
- Patient Access
- Customer Service
- Scheduling
- Insurance Verification
- Financial Counseling
- Data Entry
- Medical Terminology
- Multi-line Phone System
- Strong Communication Skills
- Detail Oriented
- Problem Solving Skills
- Patient Advocacy
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How to become a Patient Access Specialist
A Patient Access Specialist is a medical professional who is responsible for the initial interaction between patients and healthcare facilities. They are responsible for verifying patient information, scheduling appointments, and collecting co-payments. A Patient Access Specialist must be able to effectively communicate with patients and their families in order to provide them with the best possible care.
To become a Patient Access Specialist, one must first complete a high school education or equivalent. After completing high school, one must then attend an accredited college or university and complete an Associate’s degree or higher in medical office administration, health administration, or a related field. After completing the necessary educational requirements, one must then obtain certification from the National Healthcare Association as a Certified Patient Access Specialist (CPAS). Once certified, a Patient Access Specialist can find employment in a variety of healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, physician’s offices, and long-term care facilities.
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