The Referral Coordinator coordinates all aspects of the referral process to ensure comprehensive patient care including referral activity between the patient, physician, specialty office, and primary care office. Additionally, the coordinator is responsible for assessing the current process, identifying opportunities for improvement and implementing changes as necessary.
Role and Responsibilities
Maintain ongoing tracking and appropriate documentation on referrals to promote team awareness and ensure patient safety. This tracking will use an IT platform.
Ensure complete and accurate registration, including patient demographic and current insurance information.
Assemble information concerning patient's clinical background and referral needs. Per referral guidelines, provide appropriate clinical information to specialist.
Present necessary medical information such as history, diagnosis and prognosis. Provide specific medical information to financial services to maximize reimbursement to the hospital and physicians.
Review details and expectations about the referral with patients.
Assist patients in problem solving potential issues related to the health care system, financial or social barriers (e.g., request interpreters as appropriate, transportation services or prescription assistance).
Be the system navigator and point of contact for patients and families, with patients and families having direct access for asking questions and raising concerns.
Identify and utilize cultural and community resources. Establish and maintain relationships with identified service providers.
Refer to care team for additional program service opportunities.
Ensure that referrals are addressed in a timely manner.
Remind patients of scheduled appointments via email, text, mail or phone.
Qualifications and Education Requirements
Medical assistant, LVN certification or medical office experience preferred
High School Graduate
Strong customer service focus
Effective verbal and written communication skills
Teamwork orientation
Organized and able to manage competing priorities
Good judgment
Resourcefulness in problem solving
Able to take and follow through with delegated tasks and accountability