Financial Counselor I - Full Time

Staff Position Description

Position Title: Financial Counselor 1 Position Code: FinCoun1-8115

Department: Patient Financial Services Safety Sensitive: Yes

Reports to: CBO Cash App/Customer Serv.

Supervisor Exempt Status: No

Position Purpose

All KHI employees are expected to perform their respective tasks and duties in such a way that supports KHI's vision of providing the region's best clinical care and patient service through an environment that fosters respect for others and pride in performance.

Financial Counselors interview patients, or responsible individuals, to arrange methods of payment or extension of credit. Financial Counselors secure information relative to patient's financial status, evaluate credit history, and determine payment based on patient's ability to pay and hospital policy.

Financial Counselors are responsible for self-pay accounts not paid at time of discharge until paid in full or turned over to an outside collector. Collection procedures include collection letters and telephone calls. This position verifies AHCCCS eligibility or other insurance as required.

Key Responsibilities

Accuracy: Consistently reviews past due bills and follow-up documentation in an efficient and thorough manner ensuring accuracy and completeness of account information. Assist in reconciling accuracy with outside vendors.

Timeliness: Consistently ensures payment, establishes effective settlement plans on accounts, and processes financial assistance applications received. All Financial Assistance Program (FAP) applications must be processed within thirty (30) days of when the completed application and appropriate paperwork has been received.

Productivity: Meets with patients to process FAP applications as required, reviews guidelines with patients; gathers necessary documentation for FAP.

Analyzes financial information to determine eligibility and level of discount for FAP. Mails out FAP letters and applications to patients as needed. Backs up the front desk as needed.

Process Improvement: Participates in business division meetings, performance improvement activities, and committees as assigned. Utilizes Issue Logs when necessary.

Required Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Experience: Minimum two (2) years' experience in credit and collection work, preferably in a hospital or similar institution preferred.

Skills and Knowledge: Verbal and numerical intelligence; ability to understand and respond effectively when spoken to; can perform basic arithmetic accurately and quickly; aptitude for tactfully dealing with people regarding financial obligations; computer knowledge; knowledge of collection practices.

Preferences

Degree program in a field of finance

Special Position Requirements

Blood Borne Disease Exposure Category II: Expected duties have possible, but not routine, potential for exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissues.

Work Requirements

Ability to sit for six to seven hours daily at a computer terminal; occasionally lifts and carries up to 15 pounds of files to storage area; must be able to deal calmly and effectively with frustrated and/or angry clients.