Financial Advocate

The Financial Advocate is responsible for managing and aiding the under and uninsured patient who receives care at the Porter Medical Center. The advocate provides counseling services while managing the enrollment process for State, Federal and UVMHN/PMC financial programs through all aspects of the patient care cycle. Advocates provide a financial assessment of patient resources and based upon program guidelines facilitate the application process for appropriate financial sponsorship. Advocates manage and follow applications working with patients and family members to provide the necessary documentation for coverage until an ultimate notice of decision is received. Patients whose resources exceed program guidelines are provided with deposit and payment options and accounts are updated to reflect the appropriate funding source conversion. Advocates additionally manage the newborn enrollment process, aiding new mothers as they seek to navigate the complex world of healthcare insurance management.

Education

Associates degree required or equivalent experience in a relevant area may be substituted. VT and NY Assister Certification preferred; VT required within 6 months of employment.

Experience

Minimum of two years as a Patient Access Specialist I/O/A or Navigator, Financial counseling or direct insurance payer customer service may be substituted. Must be a self-motivated, compassionate and empathetic individual with an ability to engage in sensitive financial conversations with patients and families who are at their most vulnerable. Must have exceptional communication skills, be able to navigate across various state and federal resources and programs to aid patients in identifying the funding sources that provides the best options for care. Critical thinking and attention to detail is a must. Able to prioritize, manage multiple patients, their needs and associated application statuses to ensure patient and organizational outcomes are timely, accurate and effective. Must be able to work independently, without supervision. Medical terminology sufficient to create estimates, working across multiple applications is necessary to be successful in this role.