Patient Access Associate

Patient Access Associate

Location: Placentia, California 92870

Work Type: Full-Time, On-Site

Compensation: $25.00 - $26.00 per hour (Based On Experience)

Are you a compassionate, detail-oriented professional looking to make a real difference in healthcare? Join our dynamic patient access team at our Irvine clinic and become the welcoming gateway to quality care. As a Patient Access Associate, you'll be the first point of contact for our patients, setting the tone for their healthcare experience while expertly managing critical administrative functions. This is more than a front-desk role—it's an opportunity to grow your skills, mentor teammates, and directly impact patient satisfaction in a fast-paced, supportive environment.

• Deliver exceptional customer service by greeting patients, families, and visitors with warmth and professionalism, upholding our Patient's Bill of Rights
• Complete comprehensive patient registration by collecting, verifying, and accurately inputting demographics, insurance eligibility, and health information into our EHR system
• Master insurance verification and benefits analysis—generate accurate estimates, perform reverifications, and communicate financial responsibilities clearly to patients
• Manage the full appointment lifecycle including scheduling, rescheduling, confirmations, follow-ups, and referral coordination with clinical staff and provider offices
• Process patient payments including co-pays and outstanding balances with accuracy and discretion
• Obtain and maintain required patient signatures for consents, financial agreements, and regulatory compliance documentation
• Handle incoming calls with professionalism and efficiency, directing patients to appropriate clinic areas
• Identify and resolve patient data discrepancies proactively, ensuring data integrity across all systems
• Independently manage escalated scheduling and registration issues with problem-solving skills and composure
• Serve as a mentor and subject matter expert for new Patient Access Associates, contributing to team development
• Provide cross-clinic support as needed to maintain seamless operational coverage
• Maintain professionalism, empathy, and emotional intelligence when assisting patients in high-volume settings, including those experiencing frustration or distress
• Perform additional administrative duties as assigned to support clinic operations

• High School Diploma or GED
• 1-2 years of insurance verification experience in a healthcare setting
• 1-2 years of experience in a patient-facing clinical or healthcare role
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with strong customer service orientation
• Demonstrated ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
• Proficiency with computer systems and software including Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and Power Point
• Strong organizational and planning abilities with attention to detail
• Ability to maintain professionalism and composure when handling complex or sensitive situations

• Experience with Next Gen EHR system
• Bilingual proficiency:
  English-Spanish, English-Farsi, or English-Mandarin
• Previous experience training or mentoring team members
• Certification as a Patient Access Associate or similar healthcare administration credential

• Ability to work an 8-hour day with prolonged periods of sitting
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds occasionally
• Local travel as needed for clinic support

We're committed to creating a supportive, inclusive workplace where every team member can thrive. You'll work alongside compassionate healthcare professionals who value collaboration, professional growth, and patient-centered care. This role offers the opportunity to develop expertise in healthcare administration, mentor colleagues, and build a meaningful career in a field that truly matters.