Job Description
Patient Access Representatives serve an essential role at health-care facilities as the first point of contact when a patient calls or walks into the office. They are usually responsible for answering the phone, scheduling appointments, billing, and submitting insurance claims. Patient Access Representative is an entry-level position and can be a good starting point to launch a career in health care.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities
- Answer phone and schedule appointments
- Greet patients and visitors to the office
- Record patients’ medical history and personal information
- Escort patients around the office
- Submit insurance forms
- Copy, file, and maintain paper and electronic documents
- Handle incoming and outgoing correspondence
Education and Background
Patient Access Representatives need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Computer and typing skills and knowledge of the health-care industry are helpful. Employers usually provide on-the-job training that covers specific duties.
Skills and Competencies
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, and Excel)
- Experience with electronic health records (EHRs)
- Strong customer service skills for dealing with patients
- Discretion and the ability to handle confidential information
- Organization skills and the ability to multitask
- Compassion and a calm, professional demeanor
- Keen attention to detail
Compensation
According to Payscale the median annual salary of a Patient Access Representative with
1 year of experience:
- Orlando, Florida: $33,000
- Tampa, Florida: $32,000
- Jacksonville, Florida: $32,000
- Miami, Florida: $33,000
- Atlanta, Georgia: $34,000
- Chicago, Illinois: $32,000
- Houston, Texas: $33,000
- Los Angeles, California: $31,000
- New York, New York: $33,000
- Seattle, Washington: $35,000
- Overall: $33,000
5 years of experience:
- Orlando, Florida: $40,000
- Tampa, Florida: $45,000
- Jacksonville, Florida: $39,000
- Miami, Florida: $35,000
- Atlanta, Georgia: $37,000
- Chicago, Illinois: $41,000
- Houston, Texas: $37,000
- Los Angeles, California: $39,000
- New York, New York: $50,000
- Seattle, Washington: $38,000
- Overall: $40,000
Similar Job Titles
- Secretary
- Receptionist
- Office Clerk
- Medical Clerk
- Information Clerk
- Medical Assistant
- Administrative Assistant
- Customer Service Representative
Career Path
The first step to becoming a Patient Access Representative is to earn a high school diploma or equivalent. Solid communication and computer skills, along with the ability to type, are helpful. Employers also prefer candidates with some knowledge of health care, although they usually provide on-the-job training for their specific needs.
Position Trends
Patient Access Representative is an entry-level position, and some people use it as a springboard to other jobs with more responsibility in the health-care industry. Candidates with computer and database skills will have the upper hand. The aging population means demand for health care workers should remain robust.
The American Society of Administrative Professionals provides training and resources for people who work in this field.
Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for Patient Access Representatives and Receptionists is expected to grow by five percent over the next several years, which is about as fast as average. The aging baby-boom population will increase demand for medical services.
Typical Hours
Patient Access Representatives typically work regular office hours, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the week. However, some medical facilities with extended hours might require evening and weekend shifts.
Where You Can Find Jobs
- 4 Corner Resources
- Career Builder
- Glassdoor
- Indeed
- Monster
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