Authorization Specialist I with Sign-On Bonus

Overview

The Authorization Specialist is responsible for collaborating with insurance payers and clinical teams to obtain and verify authorizations for patient services in alignment with payer-provider agreements. This role manages insurance data within electronic medical records and maintains effective communication with payers, billing personnel, and other departments while providing outstanding customer service.

About the Organization

SouthEast Alaska Regional Health Consortium (SEARHC) is a non-profit health organization dedicated to serving Southeast Alaska communities. SEARHC values its employees and emphasizes their professional development and wellbeing, offering comprehensive benefits such as retirement plans, paid time off, parental leave, medical, dental, vision insurance, life insurance, and disability coverage.

Key Functions and Responsibilities

• Uphold SEARHC's Mission, Core Values, and Vision through actions and decisions.
• Foster cooperative team dynamics to meet collective goals and promote a positive work atmosphere.
• Ensure confidentiality of sensitive information in all communication forms.
• Report concerns appropriately following organizational policies.
• Provide excellent customer service aligned with SEARHC's commitment to quality and care.
• Record inbound and outbound patient or referring physician authorizations accurately.
• Obtain authorizations by contacting insurance carriers via phone, mail, or email.
• Manage authorization denials and assist in appeals with Revenue Cycle staff.
• Document necessary insurance verification and billing information, performing follow-ups as needed.
• Address authorization status inquiries by evaluating each request thoroughly.
• Communicate effectively with patients, physicians, and departments about any authorization delays or issues affecting appointments.
• Consistently achieve or exceed team performance standards.
• Maintain strict confidentiality at all times.
• Identify and propose improvements regarding compliance and ethical practices.

Additional Responsibilities

• Adhere to organizational policies and procedural updates.
• Assist with other patient access-related duties as assigned.
• Perform miscellaneous tasks as needed.

Minimum Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or GED is mandatory.
• Entry-level position with on-the-job training provided.
• Healthcare office or customer service experience is preferred.

Knowledge and Skills

• Familiarity or willingness to learn medical terminology, CPT, or procedure codes.
• Competence in general office processes, equipment, and computer use.
• Ability to work independently and pay close attention to detail.
• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.

Abilities

• Effectively prioritize and multitask in a fast-paced, interruption-prone environment.
• Self-motivated with eagerness to learn.
• Read and understand simple instructions and written communication.
• Manage time, organize tasks, and provide excellent customer service.
• Work flexible hours with minimal unscheduled absences.
• Maintain a problem-solving approach to challenges.
• Handle multiple tasks under pressure efficiently and consistently.
• Resolve difficult customer situations positively.
• Interact professionally with external healthcare providers.

Additional Information

Compensation: Hourly pay ranges from 25 to 30 dollars. A sign-on bonus of 1,000 dollars is paid at the start and an additional 1,000 dollars after 12 months for qualified hires.
Work shift includes overtime with a 40-hour week commitment.
If you are motivated by growth in a positive and energetic environment, this role offers a fulfilling career opportunity.