Financial Counselor
Vista Health System · Waukegan, IL · 3 wk ago
On-siteFinance$20–$25/hrFull-time
Key Responsibilities
- Review daily admissions and registrations for completeness and accuracy, including after-hours activity
- Identify outstanding patient balances and proactively contact patients/families to discuss payment solutions
- Verify insurance coverage, including Medicaid eligibility, using appropriate verification tools
- Refer self-pay patients to designated vendors for Medicaid, charity care, and indigent care screening
- Aid patients in completing required financial assistance applications
- Collect and process payments (cash, check, credit card, and payroll deductions for employees)
- Negotiate and establish payment arrangements in accordance with organizational guidelines
- Evaluate financial eligibility and determine appropriate payment plans based on financial assessment tools
- Escalate extended payment arrangements for appropriate leadership approval
- Collaborate with leadership and physicians when financial clearance cannot be obtained for elective procedures
- Support rescheduling decisions when financial obligations cannot be reasonably met
Compliance & Regulatory Adherence
- Maintain compliance with all organizational, departmental, and regulatory standards
- Follow established policies, procedures, and confidentiality requirements
- Participate in required education, competencies, and professional development activities
Customer Service Excellence
- Utilize the AIDET communication framework in all patient interactions
- Uphold Vista's Standards of Behavior, including professionalism, responsiveness, and patient privacy
- Provide clear, compassionate communication regarding financial responsibilities and options
Qualifications
- High School Diploma or equivalent required
- Minimum of three (3) years of office experience
- At least one (1) year of healthcare reimbursement or revenue cycle experience required
- Strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational and problem-solving abilities
- Knowledge of insurance verification, Medicaid eligibility, and patient financial processes preferred
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
- Primarily sedentary role with frequent sitting and computer use
- Occasional standing, walking, bending, and lifting (up to 50 lbs)
- Daily exposure to bloodborne pathogens and healthcare environment conditions
- Ability to manage high-volume interactions and handle sensitive situations
- Ability to interact effectively with patients, physicians, staff, and external partners
Additional Requirements
- Must be able to work flexible hours, including on-call or call-in support as needed
- Travel between Vista Health sites may be required
- Ability to interact effectively with patients, physicians, staff, and external partners
Salary
$20 - $25 per hour