Patient Services Representative

Job Responsibilities of Patient Services Representatives

The workplace responsibilities of Patient Services Representatives vary to some degree from one employment setting to another. They often vary from one state to another as well, depending upon healthcare laws and regulations in each individual state. However, there are some general duties that most people holding this position are expected to perform, including: 

• Welcome and direct patients 
• Field patient questions 
• Assist patients with paperwork 
• Manage patient complaints and feedback 
• Supervise patient intake procedures 
• Collect and verify patient information and insurance coverage 
• Manage written, verbal and electronic communications 
• Patient scheduling 
• Coordinate clinic/office/facility operations 
• Payment/Copayment collection 
• Maintenance of patient charts and or electronic health records (EHRs) 

In some employment settings, Patient Services Representatives may also assist in or manage the medical billing process, among other administrative duties. 

Where Patient Services Representatives Work 

Patient Services Representatives are employed by medical facilities and offices. They may work in acute-care hospitals, rehabilitation centers, skilled nursing facilities or clinics. They may be employed in the offices of primary care physicians, specialists, dentists, optometrists, physical therapists, or chiropractors. Basically, most any medical facility or medical professional who has a steady flow of patients to manage requires the services of a Patient Services Representative to keep their operations running smoothly. 

Additional Training/Requirements

Depending upon the state you live in and the specific employer you wish to work for, there may be additional training and requirements involved in becoming a Patient Services Representative. In most cases, applicants for this job will be required to undergo background checks before being hired, as well as drug testing, since these steps are required for employment in virtually all healthcare or clinical settings. 

Additionally, some employers may require applicants to hold Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) certification, which is obtained by passing an exam administered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). CMA Certified individuals must take continuing education courses in clerical skills and medical office administration throughout their careers to keep their certification valid. This certification may be worthwhile to pursue even if it is not required by your particular employer as a means of opening the door to career advancement. These certifications would be obtained outside of the college.  The Health Services Administration bachelor’s degree program does not lead to a professional certification. External study and testing is required to obtain professional certification. 

Bryant & Stratton College’s programs are education programs and the college makes no representations regarding whether a particular program will qualify a graduate for employment in any specific position, is necessary for attaining any such position, or whether potential employers may require additional training, certification or education.  Before enrolling in a program, applicants are encouraged to consult with any relevant agency or employer with which he/she may wish to seek employment for a complete list of position requirements and pre-requisites. 

For more information on launching a career in the healthcare field, please visit the healthcare degree section on the Bryant & Stratton College blog. By exploring our blog and our website, you will find further career insights, including greater detail on the BS Health Services Administration degree program and lots of other information that can help you plan a solid career path, then put that plan into action.