Patient Advocate

Job Purpose

The Patient Advocate supports uninsured and underinsured patients by helping them access financial assistance through state programs, hospital assistance programs, and federal benefits such as SSI/SSDI. The role involves completing applications, gathering documentation, and coordinating with government agencies to ensure patients receive the support they need.

Duties And Responsibilities

• Assist patients with applications for Medical Assistance (MA), hospital charity care, and SSI/SSDI
• Interview patients at the bedside and in the Emergency Room to assess eligibility and gather information
• Identify eligibility and collect required documentation
• Submit and track applications with the local assistance offices
• Provide support for Marketplace insurance when applicable
• Maintain accurate records and meet productivity goals
• Verify and update insurances
• Other duties as assigned
• Use, protect and disclose patients' protected health information (PHI) only in accordance with Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) standards
• Understand and comply with Information Security and HIPAA policies and procedures at all times
• Limit viewing of PHI to the absolute minimum as necessary to perform assigned duties

Qualifications

• High school Diploma or equivalent is required, healthcare-related degree preferred
• 2–3 years of experience in a customer service preferred
• Bilingual in Spanish (spoken and written skills) a plus
• Ability to work at various client sites as needed
• Must possess reliable transportation to ensure consistent on-site attendance and punctuality
• Ability to use the internet and learn databases
• Ability to meet monthly productivity goals
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Strong interpersonal skills, ability to communicate well at all levels of the organization
• Strong problem solving and investigative skills and the ability to exercise sound judgment and make decisions based on accurate and timely analyses
• High level of integrity and dependability with a strong sense of urgency and results oriented
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills required

Working Conditions

Must possess a smart-phone or electronic device capable of downloading applications, for multifactor authentication and security purposes.

Physical Demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to move around the work area; light lifting required; Sit; perform manual tasks; operate tools and other office equipment such as computer, computer peripherals and telephones; extend arms; kneel; talk and hear.

Mental Demands: The employee must be able to follow directions, collaborate with others, and handle stress.

Work Environment: The noise level in the work environment is usually minimal.