Overview
The Patient Accounts Representative is responsible for front-line, patient-facing duties within the Office. This position handles incoming phone calls, assists walk-in patients, processes mail and faxes, and supports patients with billing and account inquiries related to both dental and medical services. The role requires professionalism, attention to detail, and strong communication skills to ensure a positive and efficient patient experience.
Key Responsibilities
- Greet and assist patients and visitors in a courteous and professional manner
- Answer incoming calls and direct inquiries to the appropriate department or team member
- Respond to patient billing questions, explain statements, and provide basic account information
- Accept and process patient payments; provide receipts and documentation as needed
- Handle incoming and outgoing mail, including scanning, sorting, and distributing faxes
- Log and track patient inquiries, correspondence, and documentation in accordance with office procedures
- Collaborate with billing, clinical, and administrative staff to resolve patient account issues
- Maintain confidentiality of patient information in compliance with HIPAA and institutional policies
- Ensure desk and waiting area remain clean, organized, and professional
Minimum Experience / Education
- High school diploma or GED required
- 1–2 years of experience in a healthcare, medical, dental, or customer service setting
- Experience with patient billing systems, insurance processes, and EHR/EMR systems preferred
- Background in both dental and medical billing environments strongly preferred
Department Required Skills
- Strong customer service skills with the ability to interact professionally with patients, visitors, and staff
- Excellent verbal communication skills and phone etiquette
- Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize responsibilities, and remain organized in a fast-paced environment
- Basic knowledge of patient billing processes and ability to explain account information clearly
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and comfort working with electronic systems
- Attention to detail with accurate data entry and documentation skills
- Ability to handle confidential information and maintain compliance with HIPAA regulations
Preferred Years Experience, Skills, Training, Education
- Experience working in a healthcare, dental, or medical office setting
- Familiarity with EHR/EMR systems and patient account or billing software
- Knowledge of insurance verification and medical/dental billing processes
- Experience handling patient payments and resolving account inquiries
- Ability to collaborate effectively with billing, clinical, and administrative teams
- Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to de-escalate patient concerns
Position Details
Posting Number: PG195909TM
Position Number: 48SM55
Position Type: Temporary
Job City & State: Chapel Hill, NC
Working Title: UTS- Temporary Patient Accounts Representative at UNC Chapel Hill
Work Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Is Time Limited: Yes
If Yes, Appointment Length: TBD
Anticipated Hiring Range: $20.00/hourly
Job Open Date: 04/13/2026
Quick Link: https://jobs.ncsu.edu/postings/229468
EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity. If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu. Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit. NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.