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Patient Access Associate-M-F Days

Overview

At Houston Methodist, the Patient Access Associate position is responsible for obtaining and entering accurate demographic and insurance information in the electronic health record (EHR) on patients presenting at the various entry points of the facility. This position performs cashiering functions, ensuring that all hospital accounts are secure, through the collection of the required co-pay, deductibles and co-insurance. This position also performs the medical necessity check, to ensure compliance with Medicare guidelines. The Patient Access Associate position employs effective communication skills, promoting excellent customer service in every interaction. This position is also required to adhere to all departments, hospital, governmental and/or any other healthcare licensing agency requirements related to the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

Houston Methodist Standard

PATIENT AGE GROUP(S) AND POPULATION(S) SERVEDRefer to departmental "Scope of Service" and "Provision of Care" plans, as applicable, for description of primary age groups and populations served by this job for the respective HM entity.

HOUSTON METHODIST EXPERIENCE EXPECTATIONS

  • Provide personalized care and service by consistently demonstrating our I CARE values:
    • INTEGRITY: We are honest and ethical in all we say and do.
    • COMPASSION: We embrace the whole person including emotional, ethical, physical, and spiritual needs.
    • ACCOUNTABILITY: We hold ourselves accountable for all our actions.
    • RESPECT: We treat every individual as a person of worth, dignity, and value.
    • EXCELLENCE: We strive to be the best at what we do and a model for others to emulate.
  • Practices the Caring and Serving Model
  • Delivers personalized service using HM Service Standards
  • Provides for exceptional patient/customer experiences by following our Standards of Practice of always using Positive Language (AIDET, Managing Up, Key Words)
  • Intentionally collaborates with other healthcare professionals involved in patients/customers or employees' experiential journeys to ensure strong communication, ease of access to information, and a seamless experience
  • Involves patients (customers) in shift/handoff reports by enabling their participation in their plan of care as applicable to the given job
  • Actively supports the organization's vision, fulfills the mission and abides by the I CARE values

Responsibilities

PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Promotes a positive work environment and contributes to a dynamic team focused work unit that actively helps one another to achieve optimal departmental and organizational results.
  • Communicates openly in a non-judgmental manner and in a professional demeanor during all interactions with customers and co-workers.
SERVICE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Obtains and records accurate demographic and insurance information on patients by interviewing patients, family members and physicians. Ensures that the correct insurance plan codes are utilized for the billing process.
  • Explains the consent forms, obtains signatures on the forms and responds to any questions in a professional manner.
  • Contributes to departmental and hospital patient experience. Proactively seeks solutions to address patient issues and concerns. Alerts management in a timely manner to any unusual and/or difficult situations impacting the level of service.
QUALITY/SAFETY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Consistently takes the necessary steps to ensure that protected health information remains private and confidential, according to established HIPAA guidelines. Uses patient identifiers consistently to properly identify patients and the correct medical records. Refrains from issuing new medical record numbers to patients with existing accounts.
  • Meets goals set by the department (e.g., registration error rate, productivity/activities per hour, etc.).
FINANCE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Ensures that ordered services meet established medical necessity criteria when applicable.
  • Collects payments based on pre-determined information. Performs insurance verification to determine patient out of pocket expenses for services. If applicable, offers payment options after the minimum required payment has been received. Fulfills monthly goals for cash collection.
  • Accurately posts and receipts patient payments. Balances cash drawer on a daily basis; follows the department policy related to cash drawers and cash receipting.
  • Organizes time effectively, minimizing incidental overtime and sets priorities. Utilizes time between heavy workloads efficiently and helps other team members.
GROWTH/INNOVATION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Displays initiative to improve job functions. Demonstrates adaptability and flexibility during changing demands. Offers suggestions to streamline process for efficient patient flow.
  • Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development.
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; the employee will also perform other reasonably related business/job duties as assigned. Houston Methodist reserves the right to revise job duties and responsibilities as the need arises.

Qualifications

EDUCATION
  • High School diploma or equivalent education (examples include: GED, verification of homeschool equivalency, partial or full completion of post-secondary education, etc.)
WORK EXPERIENCE
  • Two years of experience in a strong customer service environment
  • One year of registration experience in a hospital environment preferred

License/Certification

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS - REQUIRED
  • N/A

KSA/ Supplemental Data

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluations
  • Sufficient proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing the English language necessary to perform the essential functions of this job, especially with regard to activities impacting patient or employee safety or security
  • Ability to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, family members and co-workers in a manner consistent with a customer service focus and application of positive language principles
  • Ability to multi-task and flexibility to meet the requirements of the patients and the department
  • Knowledge of basic registration/access functions and insurance procedures
  • Ability to problem solve
  • Ability to remain calm in stressful situations with patience and understanding
  • Excellent customer service and professional communication skills
  • Proficient computer skills and ability to learn and navigate multiple software programs
  • Ability to handle detail work accurately and rapidly

SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

WORK ATTIRE

  • Uniform Yes
  • Scrubs No
  • Business professional Yes
  • Other (department approved) Yes

ON-CALL**Note that employees may be required to be on-call during emergencies (ie. DIsaster, Severe Weather Events, etc) regardless of selection below.

  • On Call* No

TRAVEL****Travel specifications may vary by department**

  • May require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area No
  • May require travel outside Houston Metropolitan area No

Company Profile

Since 1998, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has been serving Fort Bend and the surrounding counties. Residents have come to rely on a level of compassionate care and leading-edge technology that was once available only in the Texas Medical Center. Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital tied for No. 4 in Houston and No. 6 (three-way tie) in Texas in U.S. News & World Report’s best hospital rankings in 2020. With 316 operating beds, 24 operating rooms and over 2,400 employees, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital was designed to provide comprehensive, personalized care for the community.

Average salary estimate

$42500 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$35000K
$50000K

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 Access Associate-M-F Days, UNAVAILABLE

If you're passionate about providing top-notch care and service to patients, consider joining Houston Methodist as a Patient Access Associate! In this role, you'll be the first point of contact for patients at our Sugar Land location, responsible for collecting and entering accurate demographic and insurance information in our electronic health record system. Your keen attention to detail will shine as you perform cashiering functions, ensuring secure hospital accounts through the collection of co-payments and insurance deductibles. You will also have the critical responsibility of performing medical necessity checks to align with Medicare guidelines. The Patient Access Associate's role extends beyond just data entry; you will leverage your exceptional communication skills to foster a warm and welcoming environment for every patient and their families, helping to address questions about consent forms and insurance plans. Your commitment to confidentiality will be paramount, as you'll ensure that all protected health information adheres to HIPAA regulations. At Houston Methodist, we uphold our core values of Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence (I CARE) in every interaction, making it essential for you to embody these principles in your daily work. By promoting stellar customer service and collaborating with healthcare professionals, you will play a vital part in enhancing the overall patient experience. If you're ready to work in a dynamic team environment where every day brings new challenges and opportunities to learn, then we would love to have you onboard!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Patient Access Associate-M-F Days Role at UNAVAILABLE
What are the main responsibilities of a Patient Access Associate at Houston Methodist?

The Patient Access Associate at Houston Methodist is responsible for obtaining and accurately entering demographic and insurance information into the electronic health record. This includes performing cashiering functions like collecting co-pays and deductibles, conducting medical necessity checks in compliance with Medicare guidelines, and ensuring all interactions with patients and family members are handled with exceptional customer service.

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What qualifications are required for the Patient Access Associate position at Houston Methodist?

To qualify for the Patient Access Associate position at Houston Methodist, candidates should have a high school diploma or equivalent education. Additionally, two years of experience in a strong customer service environment is essential, with a preference for at least one year of registration experience in a hospital setting, demonstrating familiarity with healthcare procedures and insurance processes.

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What skills are important for a Patient Access Associate at Houston Methodist?

Key skills for a Patient Access Associate at Houston Methodist include effective communication, customer service abilities, and proficiency in navigating electronic systems. The role requires an individual to multi-task, solve problems effectively, and remain composed in stressful situations while also exhibiting a solid understanding of registration processes and insurance verification.

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How does a Patient Access Associate ensure compliance with HIPAA regulations at Houston Methodist?

At Houston Methodist, a Patient Access Associate ensures HIPAA compliance by maintaining the confidentiality of protected health information and using patient identifiers correctly. They also adhere to established guidelines for managing patient data, ensuring any sensitive information remains private throughout the registration process.

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What is the work environment like for a Patient Access Associate at Houston Methodist?

The work environment for a Patient Access Associate at Houston Methodist is dynamic and collaborative, requiring teamwork to support optimal departmental results. With a focus on excellent customer service, associates are encouraged to contribute to a positive work atmosphere while engaging meaningfully with patients and fellow team members.

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Common Interview Questions for Patient Access Associate-M-F Days
Can you describe a time when you provided excellent customer service as a Patient Access Associate?

In answering this question, consider describing a specific situation where you went above and beyond to assist a patient or family member. Highlight your active listening skills, the steps you took to address their concerns, and how your actions contributed to a positive experience.

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How do you handle high-stress situations in a fast-paced environment like patient access?

When addressing this question, emphasize your ability to maintain composure and prioritize tasks effectively. Provide an example that illustrates your problem-solving skills under pressure, and explain how you manage your time to ensure that all responsibilities are handled efficiently.

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What techniques do you use to ensure accurate data entry when dealing with patient information?

Discuss your attention to detail and any specific methods you use to double-check your work, such as reviewing data for discrepancies and verifying information with patients. This can demonstrate your commitment to accuracy and patient safety.

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How would you approach a situation where a patient is confused about their insurance benefits?

Explain how you would empathize with the patient's confusion and take the time to explain their benefits clearly. Highlight your commitment to providing understandable information, including your ability to collaborate with insurance teams if needed.

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What do you think are the most important qualities for a Patient Access Associate?

This is a great opportunity to discuss qualities such as empathy, communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work as part of a team. Relate your answer back to how these qualities align with the core values of Houston Methodist.

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How do you ensure compliance with regulations, such as HIPAA, in your daily work?

Make sure to mention specific practices you follow that ensure compliance, such as using caution while handling patient records, respecting privacy during patient interactions, and being aware of institution policies regarding confidentiality.

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What systems or software have you used for managing patient data?

Talk about your experience with electronic health record systems and any specific software you've used. If you haven't used a particular system, express your willingness to learn and adapt quickly to new technologies.

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Can you provide an example of how you’ve contributed to a team dynamic in a previous role?

Answer with a specific example that showcases your collaborative skills. Mention any instances where you supported team members, shared best practices, or contributed to a positive workplace environment.

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What strategies do you use to maintain confidentiality when handling patient information?

Discuss the importance of confidentiality in your work and any methods you use, such as locking computers when stepping away, discussing sensitive information in private areas, and always following HIPAA guidelines.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Why do you want to work as a Patient Access Associate at Houston Methodist?

This is your chance to express your passion for healthcare and the values of Houston Methodist. Talk about your desire to provide quality patient care and contribute to an esteemed healthcare institution known for its compassionate service.

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SENIORITY LEVEL REQUIREMENT
TEAM SIZE
No info
HQ LOCATION
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EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
April 16, 2025

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