Patient Service Specialist

About the role

Optum, part of UnitedHealth Group, is hiring a friendly, patient-focused and detail-oriented Patient Service Specialist in Southborough, Massachusetts. The specialist completes set processes and protocols, works with the care team to deliver excellent customer service and follows Lean processes, supporting the team in meeting financial, clinical and service goals. The schedule is Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

Key responsibilities

• Verify, re-verify and authorize patient insurance coverage and eligibility using the computer-based patient registration/scheduling system
• Update patient demographic, insurance and other information, and collect and post co-pays and outstanding balances
• Answer patient-care calls through an incoming work queue and respond to emergencies by contacting physicians or providers within guidelines
• Enter new referrals or link existing referral numbers so managed care requirements are met, and educate patients about managed care plans and referrals
• Schedule and coordinate patient visits and procedures for inpatients and outpatients, and notify providers and patients of changes such as rescheduling, no-shows or emergency appointments
• Check patients in and out and schedule follow-up appointments, plus other duties as assigned

Required profile

• High school diploma or GED
• 1+ year of customer service experience
• Reliable transportation and a valid US driver's license; must be able to travel 10% of the time to other locations as needed

Required skills

• Preferred: beginner-level proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and similar software
• Independent work, strong organization and time management, multitasking and clear verbal and written communication

What we offer

• Hourly pay of $18-$32 depending on full-time employment
• Paid time off starting in the first pay period plus 8 paid holidays
• Medical plan options, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan
• Education reimbursement, employee discounts, employee assistance program and referral bonus