Patient Advocate

JOB DESCRIPTION:  PATIENT ADVOCATE

GENERAL:

A patient advocate is a healthcare professional who assists patients and their families in navigating the healthcare system by providing support, information, and advocacy to ensure they receive the best possible care, including communicating with doctors, managing insurance claims, understanding treatment options, and advocating for their needs when necessary, often working with insurance companies and other healthcare providers to resolve issues and facilitate access to appropriate treatment

DUTIES:

• Collaborate with the clinical team and families of patients to enroll eligible patients in insurance programs
• Assist Veterans with obtaining necessary authorization codes for services provided at SGMC
• Increase access to care through application and enrollment assistance for people who may be eligible for insurance
• Increase access to care through application and enrollment assistance for people who may be eligible for sliding scale
• Respond to incoming requests for assistance regarding the application and enrollment process
• Attend all required training sessions at the federal, state, and local level and meetings concerning Outreach and Enrollment
• Safegurad data, maintain strict confidentiality of information, and perform required reporting
• Provide outreach and education to raise awareness about available programs and assistance
• Increase awareness among un/underinsured about the coverage options available to them
• Help consumers find affordable coverage that meets their needs
• Assist consumers beyond the enrollment process to ensure they’re equipped with the tools and resources needed to utilize and maintain their health coverage all year
• Determine patient’s eligibility/need for services
• Provide direct patient care
• All other duties as assigned by immediate supervisor and/or Administration

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to work effectively with underserved and diverse populations
• Comply with all applicable federal and state training requirements related to the development of expertise in eligibility, enrollment, and program specifications
• Must be able and willing to travel as needed (valid driver’s license and proof of automobile insurance)
• Ability to write simple correspondence and possess excellent communication skills
• Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to patients, clients, and other employees of the organization
• Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed written and oral instructions
• Basic skills using MS Excel and MS Word
• Ability to handle a high volume of patient flow with comfort and confidence
• Knowledge of (or possess willingness to obtain) insurance plans and their rules
• Current immunization records
• Current PPD
• Possess ability to prioritize and organize tasks

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

• Associate/Bachelor’s Degree in social services, psychology, nursing, communications or similar field

LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS:

• Valid WV Driver’s license
• CPR (Training can be provided if necessary)
• Certified Application Counselor Certification (CAC) – Training can be provided if necessary