Patient Access Registrar

About the role

The Patient Access Registrar works directly with patients, clinical staff, and other Cottage Health employees to provide information and resolve issues relating to patient accounts. As the first point of contact for patients arriving for services, the registrar is responsible for creating a positive patient experience.

Responsibilities

• Assists in the proper identification of the patient, collecting patient demographic and financial information.
• Responsible for maintaining updated information on patient accounts.
• Advises patient/guarantor of benefits and provides information on financial responsibilities, collecting payments when possible.
• Explains services and facility policies regarding payment of hospital bills when applicable.
• Offers financial assistance and screens patients for government programs and Cottage Health charity.
• Obtains signatures on required Cottage Health compliance forms.
• Provides excellent service to all patients, family members, and visitors (80% of role).
• Serves as a contact person for staff regarding questions, issues, or account resolution, collaborating with other departments to manage receivables (15% of role).
• Receives incoming calls from patients, medical staff, and third parties regarding patient accounts while maintaining patient confidentiality.
• Assists with tasks assigned by leadership (5% of role).

Requirements

• Basic proficiency in MS Word, Outlook, and Excel; minimum typing speed of 35 wpm.
• One (1) year of experience in an office, hospitality, or customer service environment.
• Ability to make independent decisions using available resources and obtain approval when needed.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to maintain patient confidentiality in all aspects of patient affairs.

Qualifications

• Education: Associate’s degree or higher preferred.
• Certifications/Licenses: None required; technical certifications are a plus.
• Preferred Skills: Expert knowledge of MS Office (including PowerPoint and Access), two (2) years of healthcare experience, and familiarity with medical terminology.
• Additional Skills: Demonstrates effective training skills, ensures compliance with admitting and business office policies, and maintains a positive approach in all communications.

About Us

Cottage Health is a leading acute care hospital system located on the central coast of California, known for superior patient care, innovation, medical research, and education. Established in 1888, our health system operates three acute care hospitals, a rehabilitation hospital, multiple clinics, and a multi-site urgent care system in Santa Barbara, CA. Our mission is to serve the central coast communities with excellence, integrity, and compassion, prioritizing patients in every aspect of care.

Pay

Compensation for non-physician positions is determined based on related years of experience and internal equity. Eligible employees may receive additional forms of compensation, including shift differentials, on-call pay, incentive pay, and bonuses where applicable. Managerial positions may participate in Cottage Health’s annual management incentive program. Physician compensation is determined by specialty and may include bonus potential.