What does a Patient Service Specialist do?
Published 4 min read
A patient service specialist is responsible for providing customer service to patients in a healthcare setting. They may be responsible for answering phone calls, scheduling appointments, verifying insurance coverage, and assisting patients with billing questions.
Patient Service Specialist job duties include:
- Answer patient questions and address concerns
- Schedule appointments and follow up with patients
- Verify insurance coverage and benefits
- Check patients in and out for appointments
- Collect co-pays and payments
- Prepare charts and update patient records
- Perform clerical duties as needed
- Assist with medical billing and coding
- Refer patients to specialists or other services as needed
- Answer phone calls and take messages
Patient Service Specialist Job Requirements
A Patient Service Specialist is responsible for providing customer service to patients in a hospital or clinic setting. They must be able to effectively communicate with patients and their families, as well as hospital staff. A high school diploma is typically required, although some employers may prefer candidates with postsecondary education or certification. Previous experience working in customer service or a healthcare setting is also beneficial.
Patient Service Specialist Skills
- Patient service
- Efficient
- Communication
- Organization
- Multi-tasking
- Flexibility
- Problem solving
- Detail oriented
- Patience
- Customer service
- Interpersonal skills
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How to become a Patient Service Specialist
A Patient Service Specialist (PSS) is a health care professional who provides direct patient care services. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and physician offices. PSSs are responsible for greeting patients, scheduling appointments, answering phones, verifying insurance coverage, and collecting co-payments. In addition, they may also be responsible for providing education to patients about their condition and medications.
Becoming a PSS requires at least a high school diploma or equivalent. However, many employers prefer candidates who have completed a postsecondary training program. These programs typically last one year and result in a certificate or diploma. Some community colleges offer PSS programs, as do some private career schools.
Once you have completed your training, you will need to obtain certification from the National Healthcare Association (NHA). To do this, you will need to pass an exam that covers topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, customer service skills, and insurance billing procedures. Once you have passed the exam, you will be credentialed as a Certified Patient Service Specialist (CPSS).
Working as a PSS can be both challenging and rewarding. It is a fast-paced job that requires excellent customer service skills and the ability to multitask. However, it is also a job that offers the opportunity to help people on a daily basis. If you are interested in helping others and working in the medical field, then becoming a PSS may be the right career choice for you.
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