Patient Services Associate

Astera Cancer Care; Hickory (NC); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Carolina Oncology Specialists is seeking a Scheduling Assistant / Front Desk Attendant to be the first contact for patients and visitors in Hickory, NC. The role coordinates patient scheduling, manages front desk operations, and supports clinical teams with a compassionate, organized approach.

The ideal candidate will have a high school diploma, experience in medical office settings, and excellent communication skills to ensure a seamless patient experience in a fast-paced oncology environment.

Qualifications

• 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.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential.

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, and welcoming reception area.
• Enter patient appointments and perform real-time eligibility in the Practice Management System when appropriate.
• Schedule, reschedule, and confirm patient appointments per provider availability.
• Coordinate multi-appointment visits (labs, imaging, consults) and ensure accurate entry of appointments.
• Collect and post co-pays and patient responsibility as required.
• Assist with insurance verification and referral tracking as needed.
• Collaborate with clinical staff to ensure smooth patient flow and support front office workflows.

Skills

Communication

Organization

EMR Proficiency

Multitasking

Attention to detail

Compassionate care

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Practice Management System

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 AssociateReports to: Scheduling Manager/SupervisorFLSA Status: Non ExemptDepartment: Patient ServicesLocation: Hickory, NCPosition SummaryThe 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 ResponsibilitiesFront Desk OperationsGreet and check in patients in a professional, courteous, and empathetic mannerVerify patient demographics, insurance information, and required documentationMaintain a clean, organized, and welcoming reception areaManage patient check-in/check-out processesCollect and post co-pays and patient responsibility as requiredEnter patient insurance policies and perform real-time eligibility in the Practice Management System when appropriateScheduling CoordinationSchedule, reschedule, and confirm patient appointments in accordance with provider availabilityCoordinate multi-appointment visits (e.g., labs, imaging, provider consults)Ensure accurate entry of appointments into the scheduling systemCommunicate appointment details clearly with patients and caregiversContact patients regarding appointment reminders and changesAdministrative SupportMaintain and update patient records in the electronic medical record (EMR) systemScan, file, and manage patient documentation efficientlyAssist with insurance verification and referral tracking as neededCollaborate with clinical staff to ensure smooth patient flowSupport front office workflows and special projects as assignedQualificationsEducation & ExperienceHigh school diploma or equivalent requiredPrior experience in a medical office, scheduling, or front desk role preferredOncology or specialty practice experience is a plusSkills & CompetenciesExcellent communication and interpersonal skillsStrong organizational and time management abilitiesProficiency with EMR systems and basic computer applicationsAbility to multitask and work effectively in a fast-paced environmentHigh attention to detail and accuracyCompassionate and patient-focused attitudeWork EnvironmentFast-paced outpatient oncology practiceFrequent interaction with patients, families, and clinical staffRequires sitting, standing, and use of computers for extended periodsCore Values AlignmentDemonstrate empathy and respect in all patient interactionsMaintain confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA regulationsSupport a collaborative, team-oriented environmentUphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrityPosition TypeFull-timeDay shift; occasional schedule flexibility may be required