Patient Financial Counselor - Dental

This document is intended to describe the general duties required for this position.  It is not intended to serve as an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Position Summary

The Patient Financial Counselor (PFC) serves as a key liaison between Beaufort Jasper Hampton Comprehensive Health Services, Inc.(BJHCHS) and its patients to ensure clear understanding of financial responsibilities, eligibility for sliding fee scales, and insurance coverage. PFCs are responsible for providing financial counseling to patients throughout their care cycle. This includes educating patients and making their financial experience with BJHCHS a positive one. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct financial screenings for patients to determine eligibility for sliding fee discount programs in accordance with HRSA guidelines.
• Assist patients in understanding their insurance coverage, explain potential out-of-pocket costs, and provide options for managing their financial obligations.
• Verify patient insurance benefits and obtain pre-authorizations. 
• Review and confirm the patient’s primary care provider (PCP) assignment.
• Document in billing notes insurance verification, authorization number, co-pay/co-insurance amounts, and any outstanding balance to be collected by PSR.
• Evaluate patient eligibility for financial assistance programs such as Best Chance Network, Medicaid, and Marketplace plans, and provide support throughout the application process.
• Establish and manage payment plans for patients with outstanding balances by clearly explaining account details and ensuring prompt payment collection.
• Act as a liaison between patients and insurance companies to resolve insurance issues.
• Accurately document all patient telephone interactions as an action in the electronic medical record (EMR).
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of state and federal health coverage options.
• Collaborate with Lead PFC, PSRs, clinical and billing teams to ensure a smooth patient experience.
• Maintain accurate records and data tracking for internal and external reporting, including compliance with UDS and HRSA requirements.
• Attend trainings related to insurance programs, financial counseling, and billing as required.
• Provide exceptional customer service, greet patients/visitors in a courteous and helpful manner.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by management. 

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent, required 
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in medical billing, patient accounts, or financial counseling in a healthcare setting or healthcare information services
• Strong working knowledge of EHR systems
• Strong interpersonal, customer service and communication skills
• Certified Application Counselor (CAC) or willingness to obtain certification
• Bilingual preferred (English and Spanish)