Job Description

The Clinic Clerk is responsible for the efficient and courteous registration, transfer, and discharge of patients in accordance with established policies and procedures. This position compiles and enters medical information for patient records and statistical reports, while maintaining accurate and current patient account receivable information.

Responsibilities

• Greets patients courteously, determines their needs, and provides appropriate assistance.
• Registers patients by completing required procedures, including preparation of records, reports, notices, service charge slips, and payor information.
• Interviews patients, relatives, or other responsible parties to determine payment arrangements and refers unusual cases to the immediate supervisor.
• Assists self-pay patients with establishing payment arrangements for balances due beyond initial deposits or third-party payments, as appropriate.
• Responds to patient account inquiries and advises patients regarding insurance benefits.
• Receives payments and deposits, issues receipts, and ensures proper accounting of all funds received.
• Posts charges to patient accounts on a daily basis.
• Posts payments to patient accounts on a daily basis.
• Bills patients in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Determines appropriate billing methods for third-party payors.
• Maintains required registers for Medicare, Medicaid, and other payors as required.
• Contacts insurance carriers and agencies to obtain precertification for ancillary services, admissions, and surgical procedures.
• May transport patients by wheelchair as needed.
• Operates office equipment, including copiers, fax machines, and other assigned equipment.
• Maintains income registers and reports of adjustments to accounts receivable.
• Operates communication systems, including answering and placing telephone calls, paging staff, and maintaining related records.
• Maintains records of incoming toll-charge calls.
• Serves as a clinic receptionist by providing non-clinical information or directing inquiries to the appropriate individual.
• Provides general information regarding a patient's condition or status in accordance with guidelines established by nursing or other authorized personnel.
• Schedules and maintains appointments for clinic physicians.
• Obtains required signatures on reports and records related to the release of information in accordance with clinic policies.
• Assists physicians and nursing personnel as needed.
• Contacts patients, physicians, and other parties to obtain information necessary for accurate insurance and billing processes.
• Types memos, correspondence, billing forms, and other related documents as needed.
• Maintains files, including patient charts, in accordance with established procedures to support efficient clinic and business office operations.
• Compiles periodic reports, statistical reports, and other data as directed.
• Maintains logs of patient charts, including issued and missing records.
• Maintains a clean and safe work environment.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required Education

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent required, preferably with coursework in filing, office methods, and business English.

Required Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• Basic computer proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Knowledge of medical terminology, CPT coding, and ICD-9 coding.
• Ability to accurately type a minimum of 60 words per minute (WPM).
• Ability to operate various office machines and equipment.
• General knowledge of clerical and business office procedures.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to work effectively under stressful conditions.

Required Training

• Three (3) to six (6) months of on-the-job training required to attain proficiency in assigned duties and responsibilities.