Assistant Patient Access Representative - School of Dentistry - Pediatrics

As an Assistant Patient Access Representative at UTHealth Houston, your key responsibilities will include collecting demographic, insurance, and financial information from patients, scheduling appointments, verifying insurance coverage, and ensuring medical necessity compliance. This role requires effective communication with various stakeholders, including patients, physicians, and insurance companies, to guarantee a smooth patient experience.

To qualify for the Assistant Patient Access Representative role at UTHealth Houston, you need a high school diploma or equivalent. While no prior experience is required, a background in customer service, familiarity with insurance verification, and proficiency in handling phone calls will give you an advantage. Bilingual skills in Spanish are preferred but not mandatory.

Yes, UTHealth Houston promotes individual professional growth for its Assistant Patient Access Representatives by providing opportunities for mandatory and continuing education. Additionally, the collaborative environment allows for mentorship and support from more experienced staff, contributing to your career development within the organization.

The work environment for an Assistant Patient Access Representative at UTHealth Houston is supportive and dynamic, focusing on teamwork and patient interaction. You will work closely with a compassionate team dedicated to excellent patient service while receiving ongoing training and guidance in your role.

Assistant Patient Access Representatives at UTHealth Houston enjoy an impressive benefits package, including 100% paid medical premiums, generous vacation time, access to mental health and financial counseling services, and a robust retirement plan. The organization also offers discounts on gym memberships and various other employee services, emphasizing holistic employee wellbeing.

To gather accurate patient information, I would prioritize creating a welcoming atmosphere, actively listen to the patient or their guardian, and ask clear, concise questions. Additionally, I would double-check the information entered into the system for accuracy and clarify any details that may seem unclear, ensuring that their unique situation is fully understood.

Handling difficult patients requires empathy and patience. I would listen actively to their concerns, validate their feelings, and work collaboratively to find a solution that addresses their issues while adhering to organizational policies. Maintaining a calm demeanor and focusing on providing excellent customer service is essential in these situations.

While I may not have extensive experience, I understand the importance of thorough insurance verification. I would follow up with patients to collect necessary documents, verify their coverage and eligibility directly with insurance providers, and ensure that all required notifications and authorizations are completed in a timely manner to facilitate the care they need.

In a busy environment, I would prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance. For instance, I would first address patients who need immediate assistance, schedule appointments for those seeking immediate care, and then manage ongoing administrative tasks such as data entry and insurance verification, ensuring that all work is completed efficiently and accurately.

Communication is crucial in the Assistant Patient Access Representative position as it ensures that patients, their families, and healthcare providers understand the processes and requirements. Clear communication helps manage expectations, fosters trust, and enhances the overall patient experience, making it easier for all parties involved to collaborate effectively.

In my previous role, I collaborated with a team to improve the patient scheduling process. My role was to gather feedback from fellow team members and patients about pain points. I presented this information to our leadership, who implemented changes based on our collective input, leading to a significant reduction in scheduling wait times. This experience taught me the value of teamwork in enhancing patient care.

To maintain confidentiality and comply with HIPAA regulations, I would always ensure that patient information is securely stored and only shared with authorized personnel. I would complete regular training on HIPAA guidelines, stay vigilant about patient privacy, and encourage colleagues to communicate securely to protect sensitive information.

I am familiar with various patient management software systems that help streamline patient access processes. I have experience using electronic health records (EHR) to document patient information, schedule appointments, and verify insurance. I am eager to learn any specific systems used at UTHealth Houston to enhance my capabilities.

I am passionate about providing exceptional patient service, and UTHealth Houston is well-known for its commitment to excellence in patient care. The opportunity to work with a leading institution in healthcare aligns with my professional values, and I look forward to contributing to a team that truly makes a difference in the community.

To address a billing inquiry, I would first listen carefully to the patient's concerns, gather relevant information regarding their account, and review their billing history. Then, I would clarify any misunderstandings about their charges, and if further assistance is required, I would involve the billing department to ensure the patient receives a thorough resolution.