Financial Counselor

Responsibilities

• Conduct patient interviews and financial counseling both in-person at designated hospital locations and remotely via telephone, video conferencing, or other secure virtual methods.
• Provide coverage and financial counseling across all facilities within OBH system as scheduled, which may involve travel to different sites.
• Utilize multiple system applications to perform analysis, update patient accounts, and track productivity across the hospital system.
• Maintain a working knowledge of policies and procedures specific to each hospital and the system as a whole.
• Accurately verify patient eligibility and record third-party insurance data, updating records as needed to reflect current patient information.
• Complete pre-certification and authorization for patient visits and admissions in a timely manner and document within the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system.
• Notify insurance carriers of patient admissions electronically or verbally when required.
• Follow up with patients until all requested information is gathered or payment arrangements are made.
• Collaborate with other departments, such as Case Management, physicians, and Registration, to ensure the financial security of each account.
• Screens patients, family members, or community-based patients to identify existing third-party coverage or assist in procuring documents for Medicaid or hospital financial assistance applications.
• Follow up with patients via all available communication methods (e.g., telephone, email, virtual meetings) to finalize arrangements.
• Navigate current New York State portals for submitting and tracking applications.
• Maintain accurate EMR documentation of application submissions, decisions received from relevant agencies, and all patient communications.
• Communicate financial obligations clearly and respond to patient questions regarding insurance benefits, payment options, and financial assistance programs.
• Determine financial eligibility for patients applying for financial aid, discounts, or other assistance programs offered by the multi-hospital system.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED equivalent required; some college preferred.
• Minimum one (1) year experience with demonstrated knowledge of patient access, patient accounting, or hospital reimbursement services, required.
• Experience with the NY State of Health Marketplace and local district Medicaid application processes is required.
• Experience in a multi-facility or health system environment is preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in insurance verification, patient access, or revenue cycle operations within a safety net hospital or multi-facility setting, preferred.
• Strong customer service skills with the ability to communicate empathetically with patients.
• Proficient with automated systems, electronic medical records (EMR), and other electronic verification systems such as ePACES.
• Strong knowledge of commercial, Medicaid insurance plans.
• Proficiency with computer systems and Microsoft Office products.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Well-developed problem-solving and detail-oriented skills.
• Able to work independently and manage time effectively in both on-site and remote settings.
• Able to demonstrate continuous personal development regarding the responsibilities of the position.
• New York State Certified Application Specialist certification required.
• Ability to work both remotely and in a hospital environment, which may include prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and using a computer.
• Ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 25 pounds, as needed.