Collector

Primary Purpose

Provides clerical support to the department and completes assigned insurance follow-up related tasks to assist with the expedient collection of outstanding balances.

Minimum Specifications

Education

• Must have a High School diploma or GED.

Experience

• Must have three (3) years of experience in accounts receivable, medical or insurance billing and/or collections

Equivalent Education and/or Experience

• May have an equivalent combination of education and/or experience in lieu of specific experience as stated above.

Certification/Registration/Licensure

• None.

Required Tests for Placement

Skills or Special Abilities

• Must be able to demonstrate a working knowledge of personal computers and other standard office equipment.
• Must be able to exercise good judgment in responding to simple requests from government and/or non-government agencies.
• Must understand managed care and insurance contractual arrangements.
• Must have basic knowledge of medical software.
• Must be detail oriented, possess basic mathematical skills, and have sharp analytical skills to recognize financial issues as they relate to multiple groups including third party payors, physicians, patients and the system.
• Must demonstrate a positive demeanor, good verbal and written communication skills, and be professional in both appearance and approach.
• Must be able to handle potentially stressful situations and multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Must be able to communicate effectively with patients, families, government entities, insurance companies, and Parkland staff.
• Must be able to solve problems within the guidelines of established policies and procedures.
• Basic medical terminology knowledge preferred.
• Bilingual skills preferred.

Responsibilities

• Receives, sorts by reason, distributes correspondence from payors or agencies to the appropriate follow-up staff, and responds to simple requests such as copying itemized bills and medical records to ensure information is transmitted that is required to process payments.
• Documents all actions taken on accounts in the system account notes to ensure all prior actions are noted and understandable by others.
• Informs the Supervisor of any problems or changes affecting the collection process so that corrective actions can be taken and assists with departmental reporting and special projects as needed.
• Contacts patients, insurance carriers, and/or other Parkland departments to gather information required by the payor or vendor and updates the account.
• Tracks productivity and provides cumulative reports on a daily, weekly or monthly basis, as required by supervisor and/or manager.
• Maintains a positive working relationship with contacts at all agencies, patients, insurance companies, government entities, clinical personnel, other Parkland staff and management, to promote teamwork, cooperation, and a positive public image for Parkland. Serves as a positive role model for staff and patients and demonstrates strong interpersonal skills. Accepts constructive criticism and integrates suggestions in effective ways.

Job Accountabilities

• Identifies ways to improve work processes and improve customer satisfaction. Makes recommendations to supervisor, implements, and monitors results as appropriate in support of the overall goals of the department and Parkland.
• Stays abreast of the latest developments, advancements, and trends in the field by attending seminars/workshops, reading professional journals, actively participating in professional organizations, and/or maintaining certification or licensure. Integrates knowledge gained into current work practices.
• Maintains knowledge of applicable rules, regulations, policies, laws and guidelines that impact the area. Develops effective internal controls designed to promote adherence with applicable laws, accreditation agency requirements, and federal, state, and private health plans. Seeks advice and guidance as needed to ensure proper understanding.