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PATIENT ACCESS SPECIALIST I (1280M)

Memorial Health · Springfield, IL · $16.00–$23.64 an hour · Part time

Posted Sep 28, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about a time you had to explain a form or document to someone who did not understand it.

What they are checking: Whether they make sure patients understand what they sign, which ties to Patient Rights and compliance.

Tell me about a time you made a mistake in data entry. How did you catch it and fix it?

What they are checking: Whether they own errors and build habits to prevent them from happening again.

How do you keep up with changing payer requirements?

What they are checking: Whether they take responsibility for staying current in an area that changes often.

What would you do

A patient's insurance comes back inactive while they are standing at your desk. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they can solve the problem calmly and explain options without embarrassing the patient.

How would you ask a patient for a copay or past balance when they seem upset about money?

What they are checking: Whether they can handle financial collections with tact while still doing the job.

The waiting room is full and someone is frustrated about the wait. How do you handle them while keeping the line moving?

What they are checking: Whether they can stay accurate under pressure without rushing and making errors.

About the work

Walk me through how you register a new patient, from greeting to the moment they head to their appointment.

What they are checking: Whether they know the full registration workflow and where errors tend to creep in.

Why does it matter so much that demographic and insurance information is entered exactly right?

What they are checking: Whether they understand that a small registration error can cause a denied claim or a patient safety issue.

Scheduling mammography screenings has its own rules for insurance, exam type and timing. How would you make sure you get those right?

What they are checking: Whether they would follow protocols carefully for a service the posting calls out specifically.

What does HIPAA mean for you at a busy registration desk where other people can overhear?

What they are checking: Whether they protect patient privacy in practical ways, not just in theory.

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The full job description

As published by Memorial Health.

Focused on the Future of Care We're looking for talented, passionate healthcare professionals to join the team at Memorial Health as we build the future of healthcare. If you're ready to be part of a transformative organization that puts people first, take a look at what we have to offer. Position Type: On-site Job Description Summary: The Patient Access Specialist is responsible for coordinating patient entry into hospital and affiliated healthcare services. The position ensures accurate and efficient patient registration while supporting financial, compliance, and customer service functions. Key Responsibilities - Accurately process patient registration and admission information - Collect and verify patient demographic details and insurance (third-party payer) information - Perform financial collections and explain payment responsibilities - Present and explain required legal, ethical, and compliance documents during registration - Maintain confidentiality and compliance with healthcare regulations - Schedule services such as mammography screenings - Serve as a liaison between ancillary departments and Patient Access Services teams - Provide service in patient care environments while maintaining professionalism and compassion Knowledge & Compliance Requirements - JCAHO standards - Patient Rights and Responsibilities - HIPAA privacy regulations - HMOs and commercial insurance payers - Departmental policies and procedures Work Schedule - Shift: Day - Hours:8:00am - 12:00pm - Weekends: Rotation as Specified by Department - FTE: 0.5 (Part-Time) Job Description: Education - High School Diploma required. Licensure / Certification / Registry - Must successfully complete assigned annual education through Healthcare Business Insights. Experience - Minimum of one (1) year of business office experience preferred, including: - Patient Access - Billing and collections - Insurance principles and practices - Accounts receivable - Completion of twelve (12) hours of coursework in a business or healthcare-related field may substitute for business office experience. - Previous Patient Access experience strongly preferred. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities - Comprehensive understanding of Patient Access Service functions to support accurate registration and reimbursement processes. - Strong interpersonal and patient relations skills with demonstrated professionalism, tact, and sensitivity when interacting with patients, families, staff, and the public. - Ability to maintain emotional composure and professionalism in fast-paced or high-stress environments. - Proficient computer skills including data entry, electronic documentation, and use of registration software and healthcare systems. - Excellent attention to detail with strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. - Effective oral and written communication skills with exceptional customer service focus. - Demonstrated flexibility, sound judgment, and initiative when managing competing priorities. - Ability to work independently while contributing positively to team and organizational goals. - Skilled in patient education, persuasion, and negotiation related to financial and registration processes. - Knowledge of medical terminology, CPT procedural coding, ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding, and hospital billing claims preferred but not required. Pay Transparency $16.00 - $23.64 Additional compensation in the form(s) of participation in our annual incentive program are dependent on role. Pay is based on factors such as work experience, education, certification(s), training, skills, and competencies related to the role. Memorial Health also offers a comprehensive benefits plan, which includes paid time off, 401(k) match, and health/ dental/ vision insurance options. All benefits can be found at https://jobs.memorial.health/about/benefits/ If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete this application or participate in the hiring process, please contact askHR@mhsil.com . Requests will be handled confidentially.

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