Gain insight into the essential qualifications, important duties, key responsibilities, and vital skills that form a well-rounded Patient Account Representative job description.
What does a Patient Account Representative do?
A patient account representative is someone who works for a healthcare provider, such as a doctor's office, hospital, or clinic, to handle all aspects of patient billing and insurance claims. They are responsible for collecting payments, creating payment plans, and coordinating with insurance companies.
Job Description
We are looking for an efficient and organized patient account representative to handle billing and insurance verification for various patient treatments. This includes communicating with insurance companies to resolve payment issues, helping patients understand their insurance benefits, and processing refunds. You will also be responsible for making sure patients fulfill their payment obligations according to their payment plans.
To be successful in this role, you should have attention to detail and be familiar with medical terminology and billing processes. An outstanding patient account representative will also have excellent communication skills and be able to convince patients to pay their bills in a timely manner.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Maintaining patient records, including treatment information, billing details, and insurance information.
- Processing patient payments and refunds.
- Identifying and correcting coding errors, typing mistakes, and payment discrepancies.
- Creating payment plans for patients based on their income and financial obligations.
- Communicating with insurance companies to determine coverage for patient treatments.
- Answering patient questions about their bills and resolving any billing issues.
- Contacting patients via email, mail, or phone to remind them of overdue balances.
- Working with collection agencies or attorneys to collect payments for delinquent accounts.
Requirements and Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Completion of a postsecondary education program in Medical Office Administration is preferred.
- Certification as a Patient Account Specialist (CPAS) or Patient Account Technician (CPAT) is a plus.
- Knowledge of medical terminology and billing processes.
- Previous experience as a Patient Account Representative.
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Excellent organizational skills.
- Effective communication skills.
- Exceptional customer service skills.
- Attention to detail.