Patient Financial Services Representative
Opelousas General Health System · Opelousas, LA · 1 mo ago
HealthcareFull-time
Position Summary
The Patient Financial Services Representative serves as a primary point of contact for patients and guarantors regarding billing, account inquiries, and payments. This role is responsible for managing incoming and outgoing calls, providing in-person customer service, facilitating patient payments, and supporting collection efforts in a professional and compassionate manner.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities
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- Answer incoming guarantor and patient calls related to account balances, billing statements, insurance questions, and payment options.
- Provide in-person customer service support to patients who visit the Business Office with account inquiries or to make payments.
- Explain billing information clearly and professionally, using language appropriate to the patient’s level of understanding.
- Maintain a calm, respectful demeanor when resolving concerns or complaints, including difficult or sensitive financial discussions.
- Routinely route complex account issues or disputes to appropriate team members or leadership when needed.
- Collections & Payment Processing>
- Make outbound collection calls in accordance with organization policies and regulatory requirements.
- Collect payments via approved payment methods and post transactions accurately.
- Offer payment plans or financial assistance information as appropriate and within defined guidelines.
- Document all payment activity, communications, and follow-up actions accurately in the billing system.
- Mail Processing & Office Support>
- Receive, open, sort, and distribute incoming mail for the health system in a timely and organized manner.
- Ensure payments, correspondence, and documentation are routed to the correct department or staff member.
- Maintain confidentiality and safeguard protected health information during mail handling.
- Documentation & Compliance>
- Accurately document all patient interactions, payment activity, and account updates in the EMR or billing system.
- Follow HIPAA privacy standards and organizational policies at all times.
- Ensure all work meets department standards for quality, accuracy, and timeliness.
Qualifications
- Education & Experience
- A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
- Prior experience in customer service, healthcare billing, patient access, or collections is preferred.
- Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
- Strong customer service skills with a professional, empathetic demeanor.
- Ability to manage difficult conversations and de-escalate conflict effectively.
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy when handling payments and patient information.
- Clear verbal communication skills and basic written documentation skills.
- Ability to work independently while contributing to a team-oriented environment.
- Proficiency with computer systems; experience with billing systems and Microsoft Office is preferred.
- Supervisory Responsibilities
- None.
- Physical Demands & Work Environment
- Ability to sit, stand, and work at a computer for extended periods.
- Frequent telephone use.
- Work in a Business Office environment with routine interaction with patients, staff, and visitors.