CAREER SNAPSHOT
Summary
Patient service representatives welcome patients into the healthcare setting, explain what to expect during the visit and help them complete paperwork.
Career Level
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Salary
National average, per year
$39,180
JOB OPENINGS
Current national estimate
53,299
DEMAND OUTLOOK
Actual salaries can vary substantially based on region, job description and employer expectations; does not include additional compensation. Data source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statisticcs.
By Raising Careers Staff | Updated: May 2019
OVERVIEW
Patient Service Representative Job Description
The patient service representative is usually the first person a patient sees when entering the healthcare setting. They will greet the patient, explain what the patient can expect during the visit and help the patient complete any necessary paperwork. They are responsible for ensuring the patient’s information is accurate and complete. They verify insurance coverage and may collect any required co-pays. They schedule patient appointments and make reminder calls.
The patient service representative spends much of their time on the phone verifying information and contacting resources. They are also responsible for general office duties. They often deal with patient complaints and must direct these complaints to the appropriate department. It is important that they always maintain a professional demeanor and appearance.
Patient Service Representative Job Responsibilities
Patient service representatives may perform the following job duties. Actual duties may vary by job and location.
- Greet patients/visitors as they enter the healthcare setting
- Investigate and direct patient questions or complaints to the appropriate healthcare member
- Be professional and courteous at all times
- Perform general office duties
- Answer telephone and direct calls to appropriate department
- Help patients complete necessary paperwork
- Direct patients to appropriate department for tests, blood work, etc.
- Maintain confidentiality of all patient information
Patient Service Representatives Salary
The actual salary of the patient service representative can vary substantially depending on region, job description and employer expectations. Most recent data shown.
National average per year: $32,890*
National average per hour: $15.81*
- $31,366 per year, $15.08 per hour**
- $33,086 per year (average), $14.65 per hour***
- $39,612 to $57,842 per year****
- $39,520 per year, $19.00 per hour*****
* Bureau of Labor Statics
** Indeed.com
*** Payscale.com
**** Salary.com
***** Glassdoor.com
Medical Biller Career Pros and Cons
What are the ups and downs of being a medical biller? Here are a few items to keep in mind.
Pros
- Stable job outlook
- Variety of health care settings to work in
- Start a job quickly
- Set schedule and routine
- On-the-job training
- Not as physically demanding as other healthcare jobs
Cons
- Must often work evenings, weekends and holidays
- Daily job can get busy
- Must deal with patient complaints
CAREER PATH AND TRAINING
How Do I Become a Patient Service Representative?
If you are considering a career as a patient service representative, you will need to obtain your high school diploma or GED. No further education is typically needed, although some employers do prefer some college coursework.
Suggested Career Path
The position of the patient service representative is at the beginning of the medical career pathway. A sample career path could look like this:
Patient Service Representative > Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) > Registered Nurse (RN)
Typical Minimum Education
Actual requirements may vary by state. Please check with your state government.
- High school diploma/GED
Typical Work Experience Required
Varies depending on healthcare setting.
Typical Skills Required
Common skills listed. Actual skills required may vary by job and location.
- Detail-oriented
- Strong communication skills
- Time management and prioritization skills
- Organizational skills and ability to multi-task
- Patience
- Problem-solving skills
- Strong customer service skills
- Ability to maintain professional demeanor and appearance
- Listening skills
Patient Service Representative Certifications
None
Patient Service Representative Licenses
None
Patient Service Representative Training and Preparation
Patient service representatives typically only need a high school diploma. They will receive on-the-job training to learn the specific skills needed for the job.
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