Patient Access Specialist

The Patient Access Specialist reviews and validates insurance eligibility, prior authorization and/or referral of medication, procedures, etc.; determines if insurance meets prior authorization criteria. Collects necessary documentation and communicates with third party payers, healthcare professionals and customers to prioritize requests. Verifies patient registration and confirms benefit coverage, including deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses; researches and verifies covered benefits for ordered tests, procedures, and other services. Responsible for assuring that prior authorization for medical services, including testing, procedures, surgery, DME, and medications is completed and confirmed. Obtains diagnosis(es)/CPT code(s) from medical chart and/or provider office. Contacts third party payer to determine appropriate prior authorization process. Works closely with provider offices to obtain and clarify documentation to demonstrate medical necessity. If medical necessity criteria are not met, follows up with provider offices with guidance for Advanced Beneficiary Notices (ABN) or waivers that releases the financial burden of scheduled services from the facility to the patient. Reviews professional services denials; works with clinics and third party payers on appeal process. Assures all required referrals are in place; may work on outgoing referrals for care outside Sanford Health. May have minimal telephonic patient interaction concerning provider referrals. May notify appropriate insurance companies when patients have checked in for inpatient services and procedures requiring observation periods. Documents work in case management module; provides direction to utilization management, case management, and nursing regarding what action needs to be taken. Collaborates with case management, social work, utilization management, and other cross-functional teams across the enterprise. Assists with the design and management of data including the preparation of reports and presentations.