Referral Coordinator, Bilingual (Spanish)

Esperanza Health Centers; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

BCBS Medical PPO Plans

Ameritas Dental & Eye Med Vision

Tuition Reimbursement (up to $5,000/yr

10 Paid Holidays

16 Days Paid Time Off

Job summary

Esperanza Health Centers in Chicago is seeking a Referral Coordinator to manage incoming specialist referrals and ensure timely, accurate processing within the PCMH model. You will handle referral tracking, patient communication, and collaboration with Care Coordinators.

The role emphasizes patient safety, data accuracy, and navigation of the healthcare system for patients and families. Strong bilingual English/Spanish skills and travel between clinic sites are required.

Qualifications

• HS diploma or AA/AS degree with 2+ years healthcare experience.
• Experience as Medical Assistant, CNA, or in Medical Office preferred.
• Bilingual English/Spanish and ability to travel between clinic sites.

Responsibilities

• Assists patients in obtaining appointments with specialists and procedures.
• Ensure complete and accurate registration and current insurance information.
• Assemble information concerning patient's clinical background and referral needs.
• Contact review organizations and insurance companies to ensure prior approvals.
• Work with Care Coordinators to assist patients in problem solving issues.
• Be the system navigator and point of contact for patients and families.
• May advocate with carriers to ensure approval of supplies and/or services.
• Maintain up-to-date primary care chart with specialist consults and visits.

Skills

Bilingual English/Spanish

Microsoft Office

Electronic Health Records

Education

High school diploma or AA/AS degree

Tools

Electronic Health Records

Microsoft Office

Job description

Description

Location: 2001 S California Ave.

Hourly Rate: $20 – $23 /hr

Why You'll Love Working With Us

At Esperanza Health Centers, we’re more than a clinic—we’re a vibrant, mission-driven community where compassionate care meets professional growth. Our team operates under the Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) model, and every day, you’ll be part of making healthcare accessible, welcoming, and personalized. We believe in supporting you—offering benefits that go beyond the basics:

• BCBS Medical PPO Plans
• Ameritas Dental & Eye Med Vision Coverage
• Tuition Reimbursement (up to $5,000/year)
• 10 Paid Holidays + 16 Days of Paid Time Off

Your Role & Impact

Referral Coordinator will ensure the effective management of all incoming specialist referrals. Perform a wide variety of tasks associated with referral tracking to be compliant with Patient Centered Medical Home and to ensure patient safety.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assists patients in obtaining appointments with specialists and acquiring special medical procedures.
• Ensure complete and accurate registration and current insurance information.
• Assemble information concerning patient's clinical background and referral needs.
• Contact review organizations and insurance companies to ensure prior approval requirements are met.
• Work with Care Coordinators to assist patients in problem solving issues related to the health care system, financial or social barriers.
• Be the system navigator and point of contact for patients and families.
• May assume advocate role on the patient's behalf with the carrier to ensure approval of the necessary supplies and/or services.
• Ensure patient's primary care chart is up to date with information on specialist consults, hospitalizations, ER visits and community organization related to their health.

Requirements

What We’re Looking For

• High school diploma and 2 years healthcare experience, or Associate’s Degree
• Experience as a Medical Assistant, Certified Nursing Assistant or in Medical Office, preferred.
• Previous experience with Electronic Health Records, preferred.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office (Excel, Word), preferred.
• Bilingual English/Spanish, required.
• Able to travel between Health Clinic sites, required.

What You Get in Return

• A deeply mission-aligned workplace where your work matters—and you’re valued
• Opportunities to grow your career in a supportive, community-focused healthcare setting
• A culture built around trust, respect, and collaboration, where you’ll truly feel part of the family