Patient Referral Coordinator - Care Access & Scheduling

MercyOne; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center in Des Moines, IA, is seeking a Referral Specialist to process referrals, authorizations and pre-certifications, ensuring timely reimbursement and smooth care access.

The role is full-time, on-site with a Monday–Friday day shift. Requires a high school diploma and 2 years of healthcare experience; strong communication and coordination with physicians, patients and payers is essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 2 years of progressively responsible related experience in a healthcare environment required.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Gather, verify, and process referrals, authorizations, and pre-certifications by working closely with physicians, patients, and payers.
• Communicate detailed information and answers patients' questions regarding their health care plan; provide answers to billing and insurance clarification questions.
• Set up appointments, coordinate clinic visits, and any special arrangements such as transportation, interpreter services, specialty care, etc.
• Coordinate flow of information between medical clinic and referral authorization department to secure a valid referral for clinic patient.
• Enter referrals, documents communications and action into the system, as appropriate.
• Notify physician(s) and patient when referral is denied, or if additional information is needed.
• Develop and maintain database of referral physician offices preferred by each physician within the clinic.
• Assist Practice Manager with complaint resolution and solutions related to patient referrals.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the practice manager or physician.

Skills

Referral processing

Customer service

Communication

Education

2 years healthcare experience

Tools

EMR systems

Job description

MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center in Des Moines, IA, is seeking a Referral Specialist to process referrals, authorizations and pre-certifications, ensuring timely reimbursement and smooth care access.

The role is full-time, on-site with a Monday–Friday day shift. Requires a high school diploma and 2 years of healthcare experience; strong communication and coordination with physicians, patients and payers is essential.