What does a Patient Account Representative do?
A patient account representative manages several tasks related to patient accounts for hospital and clinical facilities. Daily duties include processing claims, collecting payments, resolving problems, attending to inquiries regarding an account. Due to the nature of the job, patient account representatives have to interact with and manage patients on a regular basis.
Although most companies accept a minimum of a high school diploma, most prefer an associate's degree. Proven experience as a patient account representative is often required with a mandatory proficiency in computer software and technology. Strong candidates possess a strong understanding of calculations and medical terminology with exceptional analytical, verbal and written communication skills. The physical ability to sit in front of a computer screen for long hours at a time is required.
- Process and manage patient claims
- Collect payments from patients for processing
- Resolve any issues relating to the patient account
- Answer any questions patients may have about their account
- Assist patients with terms for repayment structures
- Negotiate any overdue balance to recover payment from patients
- Generate bills for patients including payment plan options
- Explain insurance benefits to patients
- Associate's degree preferred
- Experience in medical billing and collections in a clinical setting
- Proficient in computer software and technology
- Good with Microsoft Office applications
- Exceptional verbal and written communication skills
- Strong understanding of calculations and medical terminology
- Proven analytical and problem-solving skills
- High time management and organizational skills
- Ability to sit in front of a computer for long hours every day
Patient Account Representative Salaries
Average Base Pay
Patient Account Representative Career Path
Learn how to become a Patient Account Representative, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Patient Account Representative Insights
CHRISTUS Spohn Health System“I also enjoyed work with Charge Nurse Connie from ICU.... Great Nurse and great person.”
MaineHealth“The individuals I work with are amazing and I love working with most of them.”
Northside Hospital“The whole process job fair was smooth and I look forward to working at Northside.”
Bright Tiger Dental“My insurance counterpart was a phenomenal asset and I enjoyed working through problems with her.”
“Benefits are not the best because you have to wait 90 days before you get any holiday of sick pay”
Crutchfield Dermatology“The pay was good which is the only reason I stuck it out for a year.”
Memorial Hermann Health System“Memorial Hermann does a good job in training their employees to do well in their roles.”
Atrium Health“Management needs to be said twice Promotion is based on who kisses who’s you know what.”
Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of a Patient Account Representative
When working as a Patient Account Representative, the most common skills you will need to perform your job and for career success are Typing, Calculations, Windows XP, Excellent Customer Service and Effective Communication.
- Collector
- Accounts Receivable Specialist
- Accountant
- Billing Specialist
The most common qualifications to become a Patient Account Representative is a minimum of a Associate's Degree and an average of 0 - 1 of experience not including years spent in education and/or training.