Eligibility Specialist 1

Savista; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare improvement service provider in Johannesburg seeks an Eligibility Specialist I to advocate for patients by helping uninsured individuals access financial assistance for medical care. The ideal candidate will possess at least a high school diploma, with strong empathy and organizational skills. Responsibilities include guiding patients through application processes and collaborating with healthcare agencies. This full-time role offers a salary range of $18.00 to $20.00 per hour, depending on experience and skills. Flexible hours are required, with shifts available between Monday and Saturday.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably in healthcare or financial counseling.
• Proficiency in English and Spanish.
• Flexibility to support at various hospital locations.

Responsibilities

• Meet with patients to assess eligibility for financial assistance.
• Facilitate applications for government and charity-funded programs.
• Liaise between patients and healthcare agencies.

Skills

Empathy

Detail-oriented

Organizational skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Problem-solving

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Here at Savista, we enable our clients to navigate the biggest challenges in healthcare: quality clinical care with positive patient experiences and optimal financial results. We partner with healthcare organizations to problem solve and deliver revenue cycle improvement services that enable their success, support their patients, and nurture their communities, all while living our values of Commitment, Authenticity, Respect and Excellence (CARE).

The Eligibility Specialist I is a critical advocate for patients, helping uninsured and underinsured individuals access financial assistance for medical care. This role involves conducting detailed assessments, guiding patients through application processes for government and charity-funded programs and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations. Successful candidates are empathetic, detail-oriented, and skilled at navigating healthcare systems to support patients in receiving the care they need.

Work Schedule and Location

Work Hours: Full time, 40 hours per week, hourly position. Flexibility required, with shifts available between Monday through Saturday from 8:00am to 7:00pm to meet business needs.

Primary Locations

• Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital - 2201 Chapel Ave West Cherry Hill, NJ 08002

Key Responsibilities

• Meet with patients in-person, including bedside visits, to assess financial assistance eligibility and provide compassionate guidance on available programs.
• Facilitate the application process for programs such as Medicaid, Medicare, Disability, and hospital charity care, ensuring timely submission of accurate documentation. Knowledge in Medicaid such as PE's, Emergency Medicaid, ABD Medicaid, and full NJFC Medicaid.
• Act as a liaison between patients, hospital staff, and government agencies to establish eligibility, secure funding and resolve coverage issues.
• Manage multiple patient cases, prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines and ensure effective follow-up on pending applications.
• Clearly communicate financial obligations, funding options, and program details to patients in an empathetic and professional manner.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records in compliance with HIPAA and organizational policies.
• Consistently achieve productivity and quality metrics, contributing to the organization's financial counseling objectives.
• Efficiently use multiple systems and databases to gather, track, and report on patient data.
• Assist with vacancy coverage, as needed.
• Complete special projects, as assigned.

Required Qualifications & Competencies

• High school diploma or GED
• Proficiency in English and Spanish
• At least 1 year of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably in healthcare or financial counseling.
• Flexibility to provide support at nearby hospital locations within assigned market area, as needed for vacancy coverage.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to handle multiple priorities and maintain accuracy and attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain complex information clearly and empathetically.
• Ability to identify solutions to financial challenges, leveraging program knowledge to benefit patients.
• Capability to work in a fast‑paced environment with changing priorities and patient needs.
• Demonstrate genuine care for patients’ needs and concerns, building trust and rapport.
• Work effectively with colleagues, hospital staff, and external agencies to achieve shared goals.
• Ensure all documentation is accurate, complete, and submitted on time.

Preferred

• Experience in healthcare revenue cycle, financial counseling, or insurance verification.
• Basic knowledge of state and federal assistance programs such as Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security Disability.
• Knowledge of medical terminology and healthcare accounts receivable processes.

Savista is required by state specific laws to include the salary range for this role when hiring a resident in applicable locations. The salary range for this role is from $18.00 to $20.00 per hour. However, specific compensation for the role will vary within the above range based on many factors including but not limited to geographic location, candidate experience, applicable certifications, and skills.

SAVISTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, age, veteran status, disability, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, gender identity or any other federal, state or local protected class.