WHAT IS A PATIENT FINANCIAL SERVICES JOB?
A patient financial services job is a position within a healthcare organization that focuses on managing patient financial accounts and ensuring that patients are billed correctly for the services they receive. This type of job can be found in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings.
WHAT USUALLY DO IN THIS POSITION?
In a patient financial services job, you will be responsible for a variety of tasks related to patient billing and account management. These tasks may include verifying insurance coverage, submitting insurance claims, reconciling patient accounts, and answering patient questions about their bills.
TOP 5 SKILLS FOR POSITION
To be successful in a patient financial services job, you will need to have a combination of technical and interpersonal skills. Here are five skills that are essential for this position:
- Excellent attention to detail
- Strong communication skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Proficiency in medical billing software and other relevant technology
- Knowledge of healthcare billing regulations and compliance
HOW TO BECOME THIS TYPE OF SPECIALIST
To become a patient financial services specialist, you will typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. However, some employers may prefer candidates with an associate or bachelor's degree in healthcare administration or a related field.
You may also need to obtain certification in medical billing and coding, which can be obtained through organizations such as the American Association of Professional Coders (AAPC) or the Professional Association of Healthcare Coding Specialists (PAHCS).
AVERAGE SALARY
The average salary for a patient financial services specialist varies depending on factors such as location, experience, and education level. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for medical records and health information technicians, which includes patient financial services specialists, was $42,630 as of May 2020.
ROLES AND TYPES
Patient financial services jobs can be found in various roles and types within healthcare organizations. Some of these roles include:
- Medical billing specialist
- Medical coder
- Accounts receivable specialist
- Revenue cycle analyst
- Patient financial counselor
LOCATIONS WITH THE MOST POPULAR JOBS IN USA
Patient financial services jobs can be found in healthcare organizations throughout the United States. However, some locations may have higher demand for these positions than others. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the states with the highest employment level for medical records and health information technicians, which includes patient financial services specialists, are:
- California
- Texas
- Florida
- New York
- Ohio
WHAT ARE THE TYPICAL TOOLS
To be successful in a patient financial services job, you will need to be proficient in various tools and technologies. Some of the typical tools used in this position may include:
- Electronic health record (EHR) systems
- Medical billing software
- Spreadsheet software (such as Microsoft Excel)
- Customer relationship management (CRM) software
- Insurance verification tools
IN CONCLUSION
Patient financial services jobs are an essential part of the healthcare industry, ensuring that patients receive accurate bills for the services they receive. To be successful in this position, you will need a combination of technical and interpersonal skills, as well as knowledge of healthcare billing regulations and compliance. With the right education and experience, you can pursue a rewarding career in patient financial services.