The Collections Specialist is responsible for the follow-up and recovery of outstanding patient balances after initial billing and financial counseling efforts have been completed. This position works primarily with delinquent or unresolved accounts, contacting patients and third-party payers to secure payment, clarify account issues, and support the hospital’s revenue cycle goals. Key responsibilities include monitoring accounts receivable, identifying overdue balances, contacting debtors, and documenting collection activities.
Qualifications:
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
1) Review aged accounts receivable reports to identify delinquent or unpaid balances.
2) Initiate and document patient outreach via phone, mail, and electronic communication to follow up on overdue accounts.
3) Answers incoming Patient Financial Services calls and disseminate to the responsible party.
4) Explain account balances, insurance adjustments, and payment options to patients in a clear and compassionate manner.
5) Set up and monitor payment plans in accordance with hospital policy.
6) Refer accounts to external collection agencies when appropriate and ensure timely follow-up.
7) Maintain accurate and complete documentation of all collection activities in the patient account system.
8) Collaborates with Patient Financial Services and other revenue cycle staff to resolve account discrepancies.
9) Ensure compliance with hospital policies, HIPAA regulations, and the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.
10) Identify and report trends in non-payment or denials to support process improvements.
Skills and Abilities:
1) Knowledge of healthcare billing processes and medical terminology.
2) Understanding of insurance claim processes, EOBs, and patient account ledgers.
3) Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information professionally.
4) Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
5) Skilled in using computer software, including spreadsheets, word processing, and financial management applications.
6) Attention to detail to ensure accuracy in financial records and reports.
7) Strong knowledge and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and EPIC.
General Information:
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and job skills required.
Physical Demands and Work Environment: examples depend on position:
1) Ability to occasionally lift and carry items weighing up to 20 pounds, such as files or office supplies.
2) Ability to read, analyze, and interpret written materials on a computer screen or paper.
3) Ability to communicate effectively through reading, writing, and speaking in person or on telephone.
4) Requires frequent use of the computer with prolonged periods of sitting at a desk.
5) Must be able to perform the primary duties and responsibilities of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.
Compensation
$19.13 - 26.36 DOE
Benefits
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
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