Patient Advocate

University of Oklahoma; Norman (OK); On-site; USD 48,000 - 53,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits eligible

Job summary

University of Oklahoma is seeking a patient financial services professional at Goddard Health Center in Norman to support scheduling, insurance verification, prior authorizations, and billing questions.

The role focuses on explaining financial responsibilities, assisting with payment plans, and guiding patients through referrals and treatment access in a busy academic health setting.

Qualifications

• Must have 24 months experience in pre-certifications, customer service, medical billing, accounts receivable or related experience.
• Knowledge of HIPAA regulations and procedures is required.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to navigate patient questions and concerns.

Responsibilities

• Assist patients with scheduling, insurance verification, prior authorizations, billing and payment questions.
• Explain financial responsibilities and payment options to patients or insurers.
• Ensure clinic appointment availability and smooth patient flow.
• Counsel patients on insurance benefits and financial options.
• Act as liaison between physicians and patients and manage complaints.
• Coordinate distribution of monthly patient satisfaction surveys and support patient rights.

Skills

HIPAA knowledge

Verbal & written communication

10-key skills

Detail oriented

Maintains composure

Reading & interpreting docs

Empathy

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Pay Range: Targeted salary up to $24.23 hourly, based on education and experience.

Benefits Eligible: Yes

Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Travel: Not required

Position Introduction:

Goddard Health Center is the ambulatory care facility on the Norman campus, providing primary care services to students, faculty, staff, and their dependents. If you’re looking for a meaningful career in a supportive academic setting, consider joining our team. At Goddard Health Center, you’ll have the opportunity to make a real impact on the health and well‑being of the University of Oklahoma community.

Job Duties:

Ensures patients receive timely, accurate assistance with scheduling, insurance verification, prior authorizations, billing and payment questions, community referrals, and access to care.

• Explains financial responsibilities for services received and payment options to patients and/or insurance or other financial institutes responsible for payment.
• Ensures availability of appointments for clinic scheduling and clinic flow.
• Counsels patients regarding insurance benefits and recommends alternative sources of payment and financial assistance when appropriate.
• Acts as an advocate for the patient when discussing medical care with the insurance carrier or other financial institute.
• Diffuses all but the most serious situations.
• Serves as a liaison between physicians and patients.
• Manages complaints from all sources including patients, staff, physicians, etc. Intercedes with physician and initial complaint. Works in conjunction with Clinic Administrator to address complaints.
• Coordinates the distribution of monthly patient satisfaction surveys.
• Ensures the patient’s rights are supported.
• Assists patients with language translation services.
• Assists patients with referrals for treatment outside of the facility.
• Helps patients navigate medical bills and payment plans.
• Prepares cost estimates upon patient request.
• Helps uninsured patients with healthcare resources.
• Assists clinic staff with complex Prior Authorizations/Referrals.
• Assists patients with new patient paperwork as needed.
• Verifies insurance benefits as needed.
• Keeps senior leadership abreast of all situations.
• Performs various duties to successfully fulfill the function of the position.

Skills:

• Advanced knowledge of HIPAA regulations and procedures.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to use a 10-key.
• Must be detail oriented, complete work tasks, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to maintain composure even in difficult situations.
• Ability to read and interpret business correspondence, safety manuals, and policy manuals.
• Ability to be understanding and sensitive to needs of others.

Required Attachments:

• Resume
• Cover letter

Required Education and Experience:

• High diploma or GED.
• 24 months experience in pre-certifications, customer service, medical billing, accounts receivable or related experience.

Required Certifications and Licenses:

• None

Working Conditions:

• Physical: Sitting for prolonged periods. Communicating effectively and listening. Using a computer and a telephone.
• Environmental: Standard office environment.

Hiring Contingent Upon a Background Check: Yes