Financial Counselor - job 1 of 3

As a Financial Counselor at Discovery Behavioral Health, your main responsibilities will include preparing paperwork for new admits, tracking payments, and facilitating communication between the admissions team and the billing department. You'll also monitor pending denial logs and assist families in understanding their financial options for treatment.

To become a Financial Counselor at Discovery Behavioral Health, it's preferred to have an associate degree or higher, along with experience in a medical or hospital setting. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and at least six months of experience in collections or admissions coordination are also beneficial.

The Financial Counselor position plays a critical role in supporting patients at Discovery Behavioral Health by ensuring they are informed about their financial responsibilities and options for ongoing treatment. You actively engage with families to ease financial concerns, allowing them to focus on recovery.

Discovery Behavioral Health offers various educational opportunities for Financial Counselors, including training in best practices for telehealth, continuing education programs, and weekly training sessions aimed at enhancing your skills in the financial aspect of healthcare.

Diversity is important for the Financial Counselor role at Discovery Behavioral Health because it fosters an inclusive environment that reflects the communities we serve. A diverse staff enhances understanding and communication with patients, ensuring that all individuals receive compassionate care tailored to their unique backgrounds.

When addressing a patient’s frustration, it's crucial to listen empathetically and validate their concerns. Explain the financial options available to them and guide them through the process, ensuring they feel supported and understood every step of the way.

In your response, highlight any relevant experience you have in collections or admissions. Discuss specific roles and tasks you've undertaken and how they have equipped you with skills to manage patient financial inquiries effectively.

Be sure to mention any experience with software systems such as Salesforce or Kipu if applicable. Discuss how you used these systems to manage patient information, track payments, or improve organizational processes in previous roles.

Prioritizing tasks involves a mixture of organization and time management. Describe techniques you use, such as creating to-do lists, utilizing calendar reminders, or setting deadlines to ensure that all patient accounts are managed efficiently.

When communicating complex information, clarity is key. Use simple language, avoid jargon, and provide visual aids when necessary. Encourage questions and take the time to ensure that patients understand their financial responsibilities.

In such cases, I would approach the situation with diligence by first gathering all relevant information about the error. Then, I would communicate with the billing department to rectify the issue promptly, while keeping the patient informed throughout the process.

I utilize a combination of electronic spreadsheets and reminders to keep track of payment schedules. I ensure that all payments are logged accurately and that follow-ups are conducted in a timely manner to maintain consistent communication with patients.

If faced with a lack of information, I would reassure the patient that I am committed to finding the answers they need. I would follow up with necessary departments, gathering the relevant details before getting back to the patient as quickly as possible.

Share a specific instance where you successfully navigated a financial dispute, emphasizing how you communicated with all parties involved and your steps to reach a satisfactory resolution.

Express your passion for helping others and interest in the behavioral health field. Mention how Discovery Behavioral Health's mission aligns with your values, and emphasize your desire to join a team committed to making a positive impact in patients' lives.