JOB SUMMARY AND SCOPE
The Medical Referral Specialist schedules testing and procedures for patients, as directed by the referring providers. The Referral Specialist interacts with patients, families and staff member to maximize successful patient satisfaction and outcomes.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
- Processes referral requests from providers checking for accuracy and complete information within communicated time frames.
- Prioritizes referrals with provider or manager.
- Maintains ongoing tracking and appropriate documentation on referrals to promote team awareness and ensure patient safety. This tracking will consist of a completed referral spreadsheet that mirrors documentation in the EMR.
- Contact the necessary organizations and insurance companies to ensure that any and all prior approval requirements are met.
- Review details and expectations about referrals with patients.
- Communicates effectively and professionally with provider practices and staff.
- Documents patient information as required by consultation specialist or test ordered.
- Sends records, orders and insurance referral to facilities as needed.
- Reviews referral spreadsheet weekly to ensure referral process is complete and patient has been notified of appointment by referred provider or facility. Follows up with referral facility to ensure an appointment has been made and communicated.
- Ensures reports have been linked to patient charts.
- Closes out referrals that have been completed on tracking spreadsheet and EMR.
- Maintains confidentiality with all related records and business of the provider practices.
- Demonstrates a clear understanding of, and commitment to, the hospital’s mission, vision and values as well as the service excellence standards while completing all tasks and responsibilities.
- Seeks out needed information, staying informed and involved by attending meetings, reading memos, policies, meeting minutes, newsletters, email and other appropriate information in a timely manner.
- Reliable attendance and punctuality, including observing appropriate break times and extending a scheduled shift when necessary to meet patient demands
- Performs duties in a safe manner, in compliance with all safety policies and procedures
- Complies with the Code of Conduct and all appropriate policies and procedures
- Other duties, as assigned, that are relevant to the position and department
*DECH is an equal opportunity employer.
Requirements
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
- Associate degree from a medical secretary program or 2 years’ experience in an office setting.
- Proficient in typing, telephone communication, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Outlook)
PHYSICAL EFFORT AND ENVIRONMENT
Moderate: Occasionally lifts up to 25 pounds independently. Occasionally pushes/pulls 100 pounds. Stands or walks often. Office environment
EXPOSURE RISK
Exposure Category III: Employee not reasonably expected to be at risk for exposure to blood borne pathogens.
QUALITY IMPROVEMENT
- Maintains current knowledge of the hospital-wide Quality Improvement Program.
- Collaborates with management to improve the effectiveness of the department through the Quality Improvement plans and processes.
- Participates in the departmental and hospital-wide Quality Improvement activities as directed by the manager.
COMPLIANCE
- Adheres to the federal, state, and local statutes and regulations.
- Adheres to the Compliance Program policies and procedures of Down East Community.
- Adheres to all Privacy and Security policies and procedures of Down East Community.
- Communicates any concern related to compliance issues to manager of department or Compliance Officer.
- Communicates any concern related to confidentiality issues to the Privacy Officer.