LPN/CMA Prior Authorization Specialist

UnityPoint Health; Fort Dodge (IA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

UnityPoint Health in Fort Dodge is seeking a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) to join our Administration team as a Medication Prior Authorization Specialist. This full-time role supports physicians and the clinical team by navigating payer requirements to obtain timely prior authorizations for medications, reviewing documentation, and ensuring accurate submissions in EPIC.

The position offers daytime hours, 8:00 a.m.

Qualifications

• LPN or CMA required with active state licensure or certification.
• Familiarity with payer policies and prior authorizations preferred.
• Experience in outpatient/clinical setting is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and process prior authorization requests for prescription medications and injections.
• Review clinical documentation for completeness and payer compliance.
• Track and follow up on pending authorizations to ensure timely approvals or appeals.
• Assist with appeals and denials, gathering supporting documentation.
• Document all authorization activities in the Electronic Medical Record.
• Educate team members on payer-specific requirements and policy changes.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of insurance plans and formularies.
• Monitor and report on authorization trends and denials for process improvement.
• Collaborate with clinical teams to ensure timely submission of accurate requests.
• Perform as an extension of the clinical care team to support patient experience.

Skills

Prior authorization coordination

Medical terminology

EPIC knowledge

Education

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) – Iowa Board of Nursing

Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) – cert.

Tools

EPIC

Job description

UnityPoint Health in Fort Dodge is seeking a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) to join our Administration team as a Medication Prior Authorization Specialist. This full-time role supports physicians and the clinical team by navigating payer requirements to obtain timely prior authorizations for medications, reviewing documentation, and ensuring accurate submissions in EPIC.

The position offers daytime hours, 8:00 a.m.