Patient Services Associate

Astera Cancer Care; Hickory (NC); On-site; USD 32,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Carolina Oncology Specialists is seeking a Patient Services Associate to be the first point of contact for patients, delivering courteous service, coordinating scheduling, and supporting front desk operations in Hickory, NC.

Ideal candidates are highly organized, compassionate, and comfortable working in a fast-paced medical environment, with experience using EMR systems and handling insurance verification.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience in a medical office, scheduling, or front desk preferred.
• Oncology or specialty practice experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Greet and check in patients in a professional, courteous, and empathetic manner.
• Verify patient demographics, insurance information, and required documentation.
• Maintain a clean, organized reception area.
• Manage patient check-in/check-out processes.
• Collect and post co-pays and patient responsibility as required.
• Enter patient insurance policies and perform real-time eligibility in the Practice Management System when appropriate.
• Schedule, reschedule, and confirm patient appointments in accordance with provider availability.
• Coordinate multi-appointment visits (e.g., labs, imaging, provider consults).
• Ensure accurate entry of appointments into the scheduling system.
• Communicate appointment details clearly with patients and caregivers.
• Contact patients regarding appointment reminders and changes.
• Maintain and update patient records in the electronic medical record (EMR) system.
• Scan, file, and manage patient documentation efficiently.
• Assist with insurance verification and referral tracking as needed.
• Collaborate with clinical staff to ensure smooth patient flow.
• Support front office workflows and special projects as assigned.

Skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

EMR proficiency

Multitasking

Attention to detail

Compassionate care

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

EMR systems

Job description

Carolina Oncology Specialists has been providing compassionate, patient-centered care since 1983, delivering high-quality oncology and hematology services tailored to each individual's needs. Patients benefit from the convenience of receiving chemotherapy treatments in our clinics, along with expert diagnosis, treatment, and management of a wide range of blood disorders.

Why Join Us?

We are seeking talented, compassionate, and highly motivated individuals who are passionate about making a difference. At Carolina Oncology Specialists, you'll have the opportunity to support the meaningful work of community oncology while helping provide exceptional care and hope to the patients and families we serve. Join a team dedicated to clinical excellence, collaboration, and improving lives every day.

Job Description:

Position Name: Patient Services Associate

Reports to: Scheduling Manager/Supervisor

FLSA Status: Non Exempt

Department: Patient Services

Location: Hickory, NC

Position Summary The Scheduling Assistant / Front Desk Attendant serves as the first point of contact for patients and visitors at Carolina Oncology Specialists. This role is responsible for delivering exceptional customer service while coordinating patient scheduling, managing front desk operations, and supporting clinical and administrative teams. The ideal candidate is highly organized, compassionate, and able to work efficiently in a fast-paced medical environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Front Desk Operations
• Greet and check in patients in a professional, courteous, and empathetic manner
• Verify patient demographics, insurance information, and required documentation
• Maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming reception area
• Manage patient check-in/check-out processes
• Collect and post co-pays and patient responsibility as required
• Enter patient insurance policies and perform real-time eligibility in the Practice Management System when appropriate
• Scheduling Coordination
• Schedule, reschedule, and confirm patient appointments in accordance with provider availability
• Coordinate multi-appointment visits (e.g., labs, imaging, provider consults)
• Ensure accurate entry of appointments into the scheduling system
• Communicate appointment details clearly with patients and caregivers
• Contact patients regarding appointment reminders and changes
• Administrative Support
• Maintain and update patient records in the electronic medical record (EMR) system
• Scan, file, and manage patient documentation efficiently
• Assist with insurance verification and referral tracking as needed
• Collaborate with clinical staff to ensure smooth patient flow
• Support front office workflows and special projects as assigned

Qualifications

• Education & Experience
• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Prior experience in a medical office, scheduling, or front desk role preferred
• Oncology or specialty practice experience is a plus
• Skills & Competencies
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong organizational and time management abilities
• Proficiency with EMR systems and basic computer applications
• Ability to multitask and work effectively in a fast-paced environment
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Compassionate and patient-focused attitude
• Work Environment
• Fast-paced outpatient oncology practice
• Frequent interaction with patients, families, and clinical staff
• Requires sitting, standing, and use of computers for extended periods
• Core Values Alignment
• Demonstrate empathy and respect in all patient interactions
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA regulations
• Support a collaborative, team-oriented environment
• Uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity
• Position Type
• Full-time Day shift; occasional schedule flexibility may be required