Authorization Specialist

About the role

The Authorization Specialist is responsible for approaching legal next of kin (LNOK) via telephone for tissue, placenta, and/or organ donation, communicating with tissue partners, medical examiners, and funeral homes, evaluating donor logistics, and completing tissue authorization and Donor Risk Assessment Interviews (DRAIs). Additional responsibilities include data entry, report assistance, troubleshooting, and process improvement activities.

Responsibilities

• Perform all duties of the Donor Operations Specialist (DOS) role.
• Conduct timely telephone approaches to potential donor families regarding donation options.
• Complete donor risk assessment interviews with the appropriate historian to collect accurate medical, demographic, and social information on potential organ and tissue donors.
• Evaluate and communicate eligibility for potential organ and/or tissue donors.
• Assess donor eligibility per tissue processor expectations and communicate with the tissue recovery team.
• Manage placenta donors, including initial referral, authorization, and DRAI.
• Handle stressful, fast-paced, and sensitive situations involving mechanism of death with compassion and composure.
• Perform peer reviews of tissue authorization and DRAI.
• Complete documentation in the Gift of Life EMR.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Associate degree in health sciences, related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 4-5 years of experience as a First Responder, 911 Dispatcher, Nursing, or related field.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in health sciences or related field (preferred).
• Prior experience in a healthcare organization, transplant center, or organ/tissue procurement organization (preferred).

Skills

• Written and verbal fluency in English.
• Ability to exercise initiative, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs, including Outlook and Teams, and other technology systems used in business operations.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple and competing priorities.
• Attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficient active listening skills.
• Ability to read and understand medical terminology.

Organizational Culture Expectations

• Demonstrate the competencies of Professional, Determined, and Compassionate.
• Maintain a motivated and positive attitude.
• Support an inclusive work environment.
• Collaborate effectively as a member of an interdisciplinary team.
• Actively seek improvements.
• Maintain a safe working environment and use Universal Precautions.
• Uphold confidentiality in all areas dealing with sensitive, protected, and confidential information.