Patient Benefits Coordinator

Puyallup Tribal Health Authority; Tacoma (WA); On-site; USD 33,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health premiums paid (Medical/Dental/V

13+ annual leave days and 13 sick days

18+ paid holidays

401(k) with employer contributions

Life insurance

Student loan repayment support

Job summary

Puyallup Tribal Health Authority in Tacoma, WA is hiring a Patient Benefits Coordinator. This role connects patients to health coverage programs and community resources, providing enrollment support, education, and advocacy to help obtain benefits like SSD, SSI, and Medicare.

You will assist with applications, counsel patients on options, and coordinate with SSA, DSHS, and other agencies while documenting information in the EHR.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in a related field is required or 2+ years in healthcare with insurance exposure.
• Experience with Medicare/Medicaid/Apple Health and SSA/DSHS interactions is preferred.
• Ability to explain complex healthcare coverage in a clear, supportive way.

Responsibilities

• Assist patients with applications for SSI, SSD, Medicare, Medicaid/Apple Health, and other healthcare resources.
• Provide patient education on health coverage options, rights, and responsibilities.
• Work with SSA, DSHS, and other agencies to secure benefits.
• Conduct patient interviews in clinic, hospital, or community settings.
• Support patients with appeals, grievances, and complex benefit cases.
• Help patients access pharmacy discount programs for high-cost medications.
• Document patient information using electronic health records.
• Stay current on changes to Medicare, Medicaid, ACA, and Tribal programs.

Skills

Customer service

Healthcare insurance knowledge

Education

Associate degree in a related field

Job description

Description

Join Our Team as Patient Benefits Coordinator!

Location:

Puyallup Tribal Health Authority | Tacoma, WA

Schedule:

Full-Time, non-exempt

Hiring Range:

$24.28 per hour - $30.35 per hour

Position Close Date:

10/29/2026

What You’ll Do:

This role is an essential link between patients, health coverage programs, and community resources. As a Patient Benefits Coordinator, you'll provide education, enrollment support, and advocacy — empowering patients to manage their health insurance and secure benefits like Social Security Disability (SSD), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Medicare.

• Assist patients with applications for SSI, SSD, Medicare, Medicaid/Apple Health, and other healthcare resources.
• Provide patient education on health coverage options, rights, and responsibilities.
• Work closely with Social Security Administration (SSA), Department of Social & Health Services (DSHS), and other agencies.
• Conduct patient interviews in the clinic, hospital, or community settings.
• Support patients with appeals, grievances, and complex benefit cases.
• Help patients access pharmacy discount programs for high-cost medications.
• Accurately document patient information using electronic health records.
• Stay current on changes to Medicare, Medicaid, ACA, and Tribal healthcare programs.

Why PTHA?

We are more than a clinic — we're a culturally grounded, patient-first health and wellness center serving the Indigenous community. We value teamwork, integrity, and community well-being. Here, your work has meaning.

• Work in a mission-driven, accredited organization
• Serve a close-knit patient population in an urban reservation setting
• Enjoy opportunities for professional development and training
• Experience a strong support system and inclusive team culture

Perks of the Role:

• Make a Real Impact – Connect patients with timely, life-changing care
• Meaningful Mission – Contribute to the overall wellness of a tribally operated health organization dedicated to serving the Indigenous community
• Competitive Compensation – Receive a fair salary that reflects your expertise and the impact of your work
• Supportive Team Culture – Join a collaborative and inclusive environment where respect and ethics are core values
• Cultural Enrichment – Work in an organization that values and integrates Indigenous traditions, community care, and cultural sensitivity
• Stability & Impact – Be part of a long-standing, accredited institution that plays a vital role in community health and development

PTHA Employee Benefits:

• Supportive environment that values a healthy work/life balance
• Medical/Dental/Vision monthly premiums paid 100% by PTHA for employees (health coverage begins the first of the month following hire date)
• (13) annual leave (vacation) days + (13) annual sick leave days
• (18+) annual paid holidays including a birthday holiday
• 401(k) with annual profit-sharing contributions after (1) year of service
• Life and AD&D insurance coverage
• Have student loans? PTHA is an approved loan repayment site for various student loan programs

Join our mission to serve and strengthen the health of our community.

In accordance with federal law, Native American Preference in employment applies and job placements are given on a competitive basis, using job related factors.

Requirements

• Education/Experience: Associate degree in a related field OR at least 2 years' experience in a healthcare setting with insurance exposure.
• 2+ years of proven customer service experience in healthcare.
• Ability to obtain Washington State Tribal Assister Certification within 1 month of hire (if not already certified).
• Experience with Medicare A, B, C, and D, SSD, SSI, and Medicaid/Apple Health strongly preferred.
• Ability to explain complex healthcare coverage in a clear, supportive way.
• Bonus: Experience working in Tribal Health, IHS facilities, or Native-based healthcare systems.