Patient Advocate

About the role

Goddard Health Center is the ambulatory care facility on the Norman campus, providing primary care services to students, faculty, staff, and their dependents. If you’re looking for a meaningful career in a supportive academic setting, consider joining our team. At Goddard Health Center, you’ll have the opportunity to make a real impact on the health and well-being of the University of Oklahoma community.

Responsibilities

• Ensures patients receive timely, accurate assistance with scheduling, insurance verification, prior authorizations, billing and payment questions, community referrals, and access to care.
• Explains financial responsibilities for services received and payment options to patients and/or insurance or other financial institutes responsible for payment.
• Ensures availability of appointments for clinic scheduling and clinic flow.
• Counsels patients regarding insurance benefits and recommends alternative sources of payment and financial assistance when appropriate.
• Acts as an advocate for the patient when discussing medical care with the insurance carrier or other financial institute.
• Diffuses all but the most serious situations.
• Serves as a liaison between physicians and patients.
• Manages complaints from all sources including patients, staff, physicians, etc.; intercedes with physician and initial complaint; works in conjunction with Clinic Administrator to address complaints.
• Coordinates the distribution of monthly patient satisfaction surveys.
• Ensures the patient’s rights are supported.
• Assists patients with language translation services.
• Assists patients with referrals for treatment outside of the facility.
• Helps patients navigate medical bills and payment plans.
• Prepares cost estimates upon patient request.
• Helps uninsured patients with healthcare resources.
• Assists clinic staff with complex Prior Authorizations/Referrals.
• Assists patients with new patient paperwork as needed.
• Verifies insurance benefits as needed.
• Keeps senior leadership abreast of all situations.
• Performs various duties to successfully fulfill the function of the position.

Requirements

Required Education and Experience: High school diploma or GED; 24 months experience in pre‑certifications, customer service, medical billing, accounts receivable or related experience.

Required Certifications and Licenses: None.

Skills: Advanced knowledge of HIPAA regulations and procedures; excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to use a 10‑key; detail‑oriented, able to complete work tasks and meet deadlines; ability to maintain composure in difficult situations; ability to read and interpret business correspondence, safety manuals, and policy manuals; ability to be understanding and sensitive to the needs of others.

Hiring contingent upon a background check: Yes.

Benefits

Benefits eligible: Yes.

Pay

Targeted salary up to $24.23 hourly, based on education and experience.

Schedule

Work schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.