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Patient Financial Counselor

Are you an internal caregiver, student, or contingent worker/agency worker at UMass Memorial Health? CLICK HERE to apply through your Workday account.

Exemption Status:

Non-Exempt

Schedule Details:

Monday through Friday

Scheduled Hours:

8:00 AM to 4:30 PM

Shift:

1 - Day Shift, 8 Hours (United States of America)

Hours:

40

Cost Center:

25080 - 5428 Financial Counseling

This position may have a signing bonus available a member of the Recruitment Team will confirm eligibility during the interview process.

Everyone Is a Caregiver

At UMass Memorial Health, everyone is a caregiver – regardless of their title or responsibilities. Exceptional patient care, academic excellence and leading-edge research make UMass Memorial the premier health system of Central Massachusetts, and a place where we can help you build the career you deserve. We are more than 16,000 employees, working together as one health system in a relentless pursuit of healing for our patients, community and each other. And everyone, in their own unique way, plays an important part, every day.

Under the general direction of the Financial Counseling Supervisor/Manager and/or Financial
Clearance Director, the Financial Counselor (Certified Application Counselor) provides a key role
in providing a health care coverage needs assessment with patients, community applicants, and
family members. Determines eligibility for MassHealth, Qualified Health Plans, Children’s Health
Insurance, Health Safety net and any other coverage that they may qualify. Provides guidance and
assistance to patients, various internal UMass staff, physician offices and third-party vendors
regarding financial assistance programs.

Major Responsibilities:
1. Interviews, screens and assess applicants and family members in a variety of on campus 
locations utilizing income and household composition and other criteria in accordance with 
CMS and other governmental established guidelines for program eligibility. 
2. Determines qualification for affordable health insurance coverage, including the application of 
advance premium tax credits (APTC), premium assistance programs, Medicare Savings Plans 
and any other program they may be determined eligible. 
3. Interacts with patients, the community, and outside agencies in a professional manner in 
keeping with the Mission and Vision of UMMHC. 
4. Facilitates enrollment through the online Health Connector Health Insurance Exchange (HIX) 
or any other program application by accurate and timely submission of necessary paperwork 
according to state and federal regulations and policies. 
5. Follows up with patients in person or by telephone to obtains appropriate confidential financial 
and medical information on incomplete applications.to establish eligibility for various 
financial assistance programs.
6. Acts as the liaison for patients with MassHealth, the Health Connector and the Health Safety 
Net to assist in the resolution of eligibility discrepancies, applications status updates, and any 
other issue that may arise in the determination process. 
7. Facilitates patient understanding of health access options including but not limited to 
eligibility rules, coverage types, enrollment periods, products and plans available through 
MassHealth, the Health Connector, Medicaid Managed Care, and the Health Safety Net 
program.
8. Responsible for coverage of the Financial Counseling call center to act as a resource for 
patients and families, members of the community, clinical departments and other Revenue 
Cycle departments with insurance coverage issues and questions.
9. Provides and documents price estimates request to patients in accordance with federal price 
transparency regulations. 
10. Works within EPIC work queues to identify and reach out to uninsured/underinsured 
patients/families (inpatient, outpatient, surgical day, psychiatric in patients, psychiatric 
outpatients, etc.) for the purpose of screening for assistance programs and upgrades to a richer 
benefit program.
11. Works in conjunction with clinical areas, interpreters, social workers, case managers, social 
security outreach workers, drug assistance coordinator, enhanced benefit coordinator, care 
mobile, physician/provider offices and community health centers as needed to ensure access to 
care and timely discharge planning. 
12. Discusses financial obligations with patients prior to elective surgical days or admissions. 
Communicates all information to provider offices and other Revenue Cycle departments. 
13. Updates all accounts to reflect the current account status with appropriate financial class, 
eligibility dates, other patient financial and demographic information.


Standard Staffing Level Responsibilities: 
1. Complies with established departmental policies, procedures and objectives. 
2. Attends variety of meetings, conferences, seminars as required or directed. 
3. Demonstrates use of Quality Improvement in daily operations. 
4. Complies with all health and safety regulations and requirements. 
5. Respects diverse views and approaches, demonstrates Standards of Respect, and 
contributes to creating and maintaining an environment of professionalism, tolerance, 
civility and acceptance toward all employees, patients and visitors.
6. Maintains, regular, reliable, and predictable attendance. 
7. Performs other similar and related duties as required or directed. 


All responsibilities are essential job functions. 


III. Position Qualifications: 
License/Certification/Education: 
Required: 
1. High School Graduate. 
2. Certified Application Counselor (CAC)certification required within 45 days of hire as a 
condition of employment. 
3. Completes annual recertification and all mandatory ongoing training provided by the 
Massachusetts on-line Learning Management System and complies with privacy and 
security regulations that meet all federal program standards. 


Preferred: 
1. Associate or bachelor’s degree in Business, Social Services or related field. 


Experience/Skills: 
Required: 
1. Previous experience in healthcare, accounts receivable, Financial Counseling, medical 
billing, or a related field. 
2. Proficient data-entry and strong organization skills with attention to detail. 
3. Effective communication and customer service skills both verbal and written.
4. Ability to use specialized applications software and computers systems for patient 
registration and scheduling. 
5. Ability to work independently with strong problem resolution skills.
6. Must provide own transportation.
7. Ability to prioritize and work in high volume, fast paced, team-oriented environment. 
8. Ability to take directions and work independently.
9. English speaking, reading and writing skills

Preferred: 
1. Bilingual speaking, reading. 


Unless certification, licensure or registration is required, an equivalent combination of education 
and experience which provides proficiency in the areas of responsibility listed in this description 
may be substituted for the above requirements. 


Department-specific competencies and their measurements will be developed and maintained in 
the individual departments. The competencies will be maintained and attached to the departmental 
job description. Responsible managers will review competencies with position incumbents. 


IV. Physical Demands and Environmental Conditions: 


Work is considered light with frequent walking throughout the day. Position requires work 
indoors in a normal office and/or patient care environment. 


The Organization reserves the right to modify position duties at any time. 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

We’re striving to make respect a part of everything we do at UMass Memorial Health – for our patients, our community and each other. Our six Standards of Respect are: Acknowledge, Listen, Communicate, Be Responsive, Be a Team Player and Be Kind. If you share these Standards of Respect, we hope you will join our team and help us make respect our standard for everyone, every day.

As an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, UMass Memorial Health recognizes the power of a diverse community and encourages applications from individuals with varied experiences, perspectives and backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, gender identity and expression, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.

If you are unable to submit an application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at talentacquisition@umassmemorial.org. We will make every effort to respond to your request for disability assistance as soon as possible.

Average salary estimate

$52500 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$45000K
$60000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Patient Financial Counselor, ummh

If you’re looking to make a real difference in the lives of patients and their families, consider joining UMass Memorial Health as a Patient Financial Counselor in Southbridge, MA. In this role, you will provide vital support by helping individuals navigate their healthcare coverage options and financial assistance programs. You’ll work closely under the guidance of the Financial Counseling Supervisor/Manager while conducting assessments with patients, family members, and the community to determine eligibility for various health coverage programs such as MassHealth and Health Safety Net. Your role will also involve liaising with multiple internal departments and external organizations to ensure patients receive the benefits they need. Along the way, you’ll engage with patients empathetically and professionally, answering their questions and guiding them through the often-complicated healthcare system. As part of UMass Memorial, you will be part of a collaborative team dedicated to exceptional patient care. If you’re detail-oriented, have experience in healthcare, and possess strong communication skills, this could be a fulfilling opportunity for you. Join us in our relentless pursuit of healing for our patients and community, and be a part of a workplace that promotes respect and diversity, ensuring everyone feels valued and included.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Patient Financial Counselor Role at ummh
What are the main responsibilities of a Patient Financial Counselor at UMass Memorial Health?

As a Patient Financial Counselor at UMass Memorial Health, your primary responsibilities include conducting health care coverage assessments, determining eligibility for various programs like MassHealth and Health Safety Net, and guiding patients through the financial assistance process. You will interact professionally with patients and community members, submit necessary paperwork for program applications, resolve eligibility discrepancies, and help facilitate enrollment in health insurance plans. Additionally, you will document financial obligations and work closely with various internal teams to enhance patient access to care.

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What qualifications are required for the Patient Financial Counselor position at UMass Memorial Health?

To qualify for the Patient Financial Counselor role at UMass Memorial Health, candidates must have a high school diploma and obtain Certified Application Counselor (CAC) certification within 45 days of hire. Previous experience in healthcare roles such as financial counseling or medical billing is required, along with effective communication skills and proficiency in data entry. Preferred qualifications include an associate or bachelor’s degree in Business, Social Services, or a related field, and bilingual abilities are a plus.

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How does UMass Memorial Health support its Patient Financial Counselors in their roles?

UMass Memorial Health is committed to supporting its Patient Financial Counselors through ongoing training and development opportunities. As a new hire, you will receive comprehensive onboarding, mandatory training in privacy and security, and annual recertification. The organization fosters a team-oriented environment where employees can collaborate and learn from each other while contributing significantly to patient care and community health.

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What is the working schedule like for a Patient Financial Counselor at UMass Memorial Health?

The typical working schedule for a Patient Financial Counselor at UMass Memorial Health is Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. You will work a standard 40-hour week in a day shift setting, which allows for a balanced work-life schedule while providing vital services to patients.

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What physical demands are associated with the Patient Financial Counselor position at UMass Memorial Health?

The Patient Financial Counselor role at UMass Memorial Health requires frequent walking throughout the day, as you may move between various campus locations to meet with patients and families. Work is primarily conducted indoors in a professional office environment, facilitating an engaging workplace while ensuring patient needs are met effectively.

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Common Interview Questions for Patient Financial Counselor
What strategies do you use to assess a patient's eligibility for financial assistance programs?

When assessing a patient's eligibility for financial assistance programs, it's essential to gather comprehensive information about their income, household composition, and any relevant medical information. Clearly explaining the financial assistance options available and guiding patients through the necessary steps can simplify the process. Additionally, having a strong understanding of the eligibility guidelines and remaining empathetic to each patient's unique situation will enable you to provide accurate assessments and support.

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How do you handle a situation where a patient is upset about their financial obligations?

In handling situations where a patient is upset about their financial obligations, it's crucial to approach the conversation with empathy and active listening. Acknowledge their feelings and concerns, and provide them with clear, factual information about their payment options and available assistance programs. By demonstrating understanding and patience, you can help to diffuse the situation and build a stronger rapport with the patient.

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Can you explain how you prioritize tasks in a fast-paced work environment?

To successfully prioritize tasks in a fast-paced work environment, I utilize a systematic approach by categorizing tasks based on urgency and importance. I make sure to tackle high-impact, time-sensitive tasks first while keeping a list for follow-up items. Flexibility is also key, as unexpected patient needs may arise. Regularly communicating with team members helps to coordinate support when needed and ensures that we collectively meet our goals.

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What experience do you have with healthcare billing systems, and how would you apply that experience as a Patient Financial Counselor?

I have experience using electronic healthcare billing systems for patient registration and scheduling, which has enhanced my attention to detail in managing data accuracy. This experience is beneficial as a Patient Financial Counselor, as it allows me to efficiently navigate the systems to document patient interactions, track eligibility statuses, and ensure compliance with regulations while minimizing errors in the financial data.

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How would you assist a non-English speaking patient in understanding their financial options?

To assist a non-English speaking patient in understanding their financial options, I would first utilize bilingual staff or professional interpreters to ensure accurate communication. Providing written materials in the patient's preferred language can also be helpful. Taking the time to explain complex information in simple terms and allowing room for questions reinforces understanding while making the patient feel respected and supported.

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What approaches do you take to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations when assisting patients?

Ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations involves staying informed about the latest guidelines and regularly attending training sessions. I make it a priority to document all patient interactions accurately and adhere to protocols while assisting patients with applications for various programs. Creating checklists for compliance steps also helps maintain accountability and organization throughout the process.

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Describe a time when you had to collaborate with a team to resolve a patient issue.

I once collaborated with a team involving social workers, medical staff, and financial departments to resolve a patient’s eligibility issue for government assistance. By sharing information and coordinating outreach to the patient, we were able to gather the necessary documentation in a timely manner and successfully secure assistance, highlighting the importance of teamwork and communication in patient-centered care.

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What do you believe is the most important skill for a Patient Financial Counselor?

The most important skill for a Patient Financial Counselor is effective communication. Being able to clearly explain complex insurance and financial information while remaining empathetic to patients' diverse situations is crucial for building trust and providing superior support. Additionally, having strong problem-solving skills ensures that you can navigate challenges that arise while helping patients access necessary resources.

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How do you stay motivated when dealing with difficult cases?

Staying motivated with difficult cases is often about focusing on the positive outcomes that can be achieved. Reminding myself of the impact that financial assistance has on a patient’s well-being keeps me driven. Taking breaks and leaning on team support during particularly challenging situations also helps to recharge, allowing me to return to my work with fresh perspectives.

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What steps do you take to ensure accuracy when documenting patient information?

To ensure accuracy when documenting patient information, I double-check entries against original documents before finalizing them in the system. Additionally, implementing a routine for regularly reviewing and updating patient records helps me maintain accurate data. Training and reinforcing the importance of quality assurance with colleagues also fosters a culture of precision within the team.

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TEAM SIZE
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HQ LOCATION
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EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
April 10, 2025

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