Preauthorization Representative
Arnot Health · Elmira, NY · 4 wk ago
OTHRFull-time
Works within a team environment pre‑authorizing outpatient exams for various hospital services. This position requires a degree of complexity and prior anatomy education. Reports directly to the Pre‑Authorization Supervisor.
Communication
- Promptly answers the telephone in a professional and courteous manner.
- Demonstrates the knowledge and ability to utilize various computer networks and telephone applications to procure pre‑authorizations for patients.
- Demonstrates the ability to complete pre‑authorizations in a timely manner.
- Communicates courteously and effectively with internal and external customers.
- Understands both CPT, ICD‑9 and medical terminology.
- Checks appointment schedules daily to ensure all admissions and procedures have been approved (pre‑authorized) by the insurance carrier.
Clerical
- Demonstrates insurance knowledge.
- Knowledge of ICD‑9 coding / CPT / HCPCs to ensure Arnot Health receives the maximum allowable reimbursement.
- Knowledge of Medicare requirements for approved ICD‑9 codes and ability to communicate to the provider when a code is not approved; knowledge of Medicare waivers.
- Accurately pre‑authorizes / pre‑certifies patient exams for all departments to ensure smooth daily operation.
- Knowledge of proper sequencing of exams (prioritization).
- Communicates all questions to the appropriate department.
- Conferences with other departments to resolve pre‑authorization problems.
- Cross‑trained to other departmental responsibilities as required by the Supervisor/Director.
Computer
- Demonstrates basic computer skills.
- Works within Arnot Health’s computer system.
- Maintains computer security.
Working Relationship
- General knowledge of the hospital’s departments and their interactions.
- Interacts with physicians and physician offices in a positive and courteous manner.
- Establishes and maintains collaborative working relationships with other health‑team members.
- May perform other duties as requested by supervisor/manager to contribute to smooth department operation.
Quality
- Demonstrates reliability in the conscientious, complete and accurate manner in which work assignments are performed.
- Applies Quality Improvement principles in daily work and participates in QI monitoring and reporting.
Quantity
- Demonstrates flexibility in work schedule to meet department needs.
- Performs multiple tasks as required by the position.
- Utilizes time efficiently, sets priorities, and uses good organizational skills.
Safety
- Functions with awareness of risk management and safety issues; reports concerns appropriately.
- Maintains complete understanding of Arnot Health’s emergency codes.
Professionalism
- Is accountable for own actions.
- Maintains professional behavior and appearance; wears Arnot Health’s ID badge.
- Maintains and respects patient confidentiality.
- Addresses internal and external customers in a pleasant and respectful manner, displaying courtesy at all times.
- Attends staff meetings.
Other
- Responsible for attending all annual mandatory educational programs as required by the position.
- Understands and demonstrates the importance of satisfying customer/patient needs by interacting in a friendly, caring, and attentive manner, both psychologically and physically, and by maintaining communication to provide a secure and pleasant experience with Arnot Health.
- This job description lists typical duties for the classification and is not exhaustive of all duties that may be assigned.
Education
Mandatory: Clinical experience in various areas and/or coding experience. ICD‑9/CPT coding certifications or prior billing experience. High school diploma or equivalent required. Hospital experience preferred.
Experience
- Good organizational, communication, and customer relations skills.
- Telephone courtesy.
- Service‑oriented experience preferred.
CPR Requirements
No CPR required.
Physical Demands
Light physical effort. Typical office job.
Exposure Category
Category III – tasks that involve no exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissues. Category I tasks are not a condition of employment.