Per Diem Patient Access Specialist - Optum : Job Details

Join our dynamic recruiting team at an upcoming virtual job fair designed for job seekers interested in per diem roles in healthcare. This is your chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of patients!

If you are passionate about healthcare and eager to help others, we invite you to learn more at our Virtual Job Fair on Sept 9th from 12:00-2:00pm EDT. Register to attend.

$2,000 SIGN ON BONUS FOR EXTERNAL APPLICANTS

As part of Optum, a global organization committed to improving healthcare delivery through technology, your role will directly contribute to enhanced health outcomes by connecting individuals with essential medical services and resources. Experience a culture that values diversity, inclusion, and professional development as you make a positive difference in the communities we serve.

The Patient Access Specialist plays a critical role in ensuring that patients have an exceptional experience from the moment they arrive. This position involves welcoming and interviewing patients, whether in person or over the phone, and collecting necessary demographic and insurance information to assist with billing and reimbursement processes.

Schedule: This position is per diem, providing flexibility as needed. Availability to work during standard business hours and cover shifts around the clock is essential. Overtime or weekend work may be required occasionally based on business needs.

Location: You will be supporting both of our locations as needed:

• 1 Norton Ave, Oneonta, NY 13820 (Fox Hospital Oneonta)
• 43 Pearl Street, Sydney, NY 13838 (Fox Hospital Tri-Town Campus)

We provide 4-6 weeks of comprehensive on-the-job training tailored around your initial schedule, discussed upon your first day of employment.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Interact with patients and families to complete the registration process, including collecting patient demographics and verifying insurance eligibility/benefits.
• Use computer systems to enter and verify patient data in real time, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Gather necessary clinical information and process referrals, pre-certifications, and authorizations as per insurance plan requirements.
• Verify insurance coverage and benefits, providing cost estimates and resolving any discrepancies.
• Collect patient co-pays as necessary and discuss any out-of-pocket financial obligations with patients.
• Identify outstanding balances from prior visits and attempt to recover those amounts.
• Liaise with provider offices to confirm and schedule patient services prior to discharge.
• Address routine and sensitive inquiries from patients and caregivers with compassion and respect.
• Compile, analyze, and follow up on patient data reports to resolve any issues.
• Stay informed about specific registration requirements for various departments.

We recognize and reward your contributions in a supportive environment that challenges you and provides clear direction for success, along with opportunities for development.

Required Qualifications:

• High School Diploma/GED (or higher).
• 1+ years of customer service experience.
• Willingness to work per diem hours—typically 8-16 hours a week—with potential shift coverage as needed.
• Able to work onsite at our Fox Hospital facilities in Oneonta and Sydney, NY.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 1+ years of experience in scheduling and authorizations.
• Experience in the healthcare field with clinical knowledge.
• Flexibility to work night and weekend hours.

Soft Skills:

• Proficient in engaging and communicating effectively across all organizational levels.
• Able to build rapport and trust while maintaining positive relationships internally and externally.
• Excellent time-management and organizational abilities.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and customer service skills.
• Basic keyboarding skills.

Physical and Work Environment:

• Required to stand for extended periods (up to 10 hours) while utilizing a mobile workstation and headset.

Note: The sign-on bonus is exclusively available for external candidates. Current employees of UnitedHealth Group, UnitedHealthcare, or related entities do not qualify for this bonus.

The salary range for this role is $16.00 to $28.85 per hour based on full-time employment. Compensation is influenced by local labor market conditions, education, work experience, and other factors. UnitedHealth Group adheres to all applicable minimum wage laws. In addition to competitive pay, we offer a variety of benefits including a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, and a 401k plan (subject to eligibility requirements).

At UnitedHealth Group, our mission is to empower individuals to lead healthier lives and improve the healthcare system for all. We are dedicated to ensuring that everyone, regardless of race, gender, socioeconomic status, or background, has access to quality healthcare and to addressing health inequities.

We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds. You will be considered for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or veteran status.

As a drug-free workplace, candidates will need to pass a drug test prior to starting employment.