Employment Type:

Shift:

Description:

Authorization Specialist Job Description

• Mission Statement:

·We, St Joseph’s Health and Trinity Health, serve together in the spirit of the Gospel as a compassionate and transforming healing presence within our communities.

Vision:

·To be world-renowned for passionate patient care and outstanding clinical outcomes.

Core Values:

·In the spirit of good Stewardship, we heal by practicing Justice in fostering right relationships to promote common good, Reverence in honoring the dignity of every person, Excellence in expecting the best of ourselves and others; Integrity in being faithful to who we say we are.

• POSITION SUMMARY:

Reviews, analyzes, and interprets complex medical information, applying specific knowledge of coding requirements and conventions to correctly classify, code and abstract health information.  Works collaboratively with the medical staff and other clinical services staff. This role focuses on monitoring expirations of referrals, verifying insurance updates prior to procedure, and supporting authorization and denial processes.

EDUCATION, TRAINING, EXPERIENCE, CERTIFICATION AND LICENSURE:

Certified Coding Specialist, Accredited Record Technician (or eligible), Registered Record Administrator (or eligible) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) with a minimum of 5 years’ experience in an appropriate health care setting. Ideally, has a background in referrals, denials, and/or authorization processes.  Working knowledge of ICD-9-CM, CPT & E & M coding conventions as applicable.

Participates in orientation and continuing education.  Updates and maintains knowledge and skills related to specific areas of expertise. 

SPECIAL EQUIPMENT, SKILLS OR OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

Knowledge of office equipment, PC/CRT skills.  Close visual/concentration efforts required (due to potential to review records continuously).  Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, as well as good interpersonal skills required.  Ability to work with confidential material in a responsible manner.  Customer service orientated. Strong communication skills with both colleagues and patients.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND HAZARDS:

Exposure Class II – No exposure to blood, body fluids, excretions or secretions.  Office setting.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Light work: sitting, standing, walking, lifting, pulling, pushing, and carrying.  Depending on specific performance criteria exposure to a CRT and repetitive motions (data entry).

WORK CONTACT GROUP:

All services, medical staff, employees, limited contact with patients and visitors, and various regulatory and professional agency staff on a limited basis.

SUPERVISED BY: Manager and Department Coordinator

SUPERVISES: None

CAREER PATH: Coordinator/Manager

Original:  July 1997

Revised:  October 2009

Revised:  August 2011

General Performance Criteria:  Coding Specialist

                                                                                                                       Expectations

                                                                                                       Exceeds   Meet   Below

·    Reviews the record for information regarding diagnoses and

       procedures performed.

• Uses established coding/classification systems to accurately

Code diagnoses, procedures and evaluation and management,

in compliance with hospital policy/procedures and industry standards.

• Abstracting/Data entry.
• Works closely with referrals, authorizations, and denial teams.
• Interacts with medical and clinical services staff in a positive and

professional manner.

Educates staff as needed.

• Completes state-specific registry abstracts as required.
• Meets established quality/productivity standards.
• Maintains certification/credentialing.
• Adheres to established hospital policy and procedure related to job

functions.

• Maintains confidentiality related to patients, staff, and visitors.

Pay Range based on location and experience. :$19.50-$25.15

Our Commitment

Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.