Patient Relations Coordinator in Portland, Oregon at Oregon Health & Science University

Patient Relations Coordinator

US-OR-Portland

Requisition ID: 2026-39022
Position Category: Dental
Job Type: AFSCME union represented
Position Type: Regular Full-Time
Posting Department: School of Dentistry, Clinical Operations Admin
Posting Salary Range: $31.16 - $42.12 hourly, commensurate with qualifications and experience
Posting FTE: 1.00
Posting Schedule: Monday - Friday
Posting Hours: 8:00am - 5:00pm
HR Mission: Academics
Drug Testable: No

Department Overview

The School of Dentistry shares the mission of the Oregon Health & Science University to provide educational programs, basic and clinical research, and high quality care and community programs. We strive to foster an environment of mutual respect where the free exchange of ideas can flourish. The dental school prepares graduates in general dentistry and the dental specialties to deliver compassionate and ethical oro-facial health care.

Function/Duties of Position

The School of Dentistry is committed to providing excellent patient care while educating the next generation of dental professionals. The Patient Relations Coordinator plays a vital role in this mission by serving as the primary contact for patients who have questions, concerns, or complaints. This position also serves as the primary point of contact for faculty, students, residents and staff as they negotiate complex patient interactions. This position ensures that every patient voice is heard, respected, and addressed with fairness, consistency and compassion, while also supporting the school's educational environment.

The Patient Relations Coordinator investigates concerns by reviewing patient records and collaborating with faculty, students, residents, and staff, then communicates clear, consistent and thoughtful resolutions. By balancing the needs of patients with the school's academic and clinical standards, the Patient Relations Coordinator helps foster open communication and trust, improve the patient experience, and contribute to the growth of future dental providers. The Patient Relations Coordinator serves as a liaison between the patient and the dental care team to ensure clear communication and to effectively manage and de-escalate conflicts. The ultimate goal is to provide fair and effective resolutions that enhance patient satisfaction while upholding the integrity of the school's clinical and educational standards. The role interacts with SOD Leadership, OHSU Risk Management, OHSU Patient Relations, OHSU Legal, the Oregon Board of Dentistry and other local, state, and federal entities when warranted.

Required Qualifications

• Associate degree in a healthcare related field that may include such areas as nursing, community health education, psychology or sociology is required
• Bachelor's degree in health care related field that may include such areas as community health education, psychology or sociology is preferred
• Minimum of two (2) years of healthcare setting, such as hospital, clinic or health plan, experience is required
• Prior experience in case management in a health care setting, such as hospital, clinic or health plan is preferred
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to navigate sensitive or complex situations
• Ability to work collaboratively across diverse groups
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and conflict resolution skills
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion, confidentiality and diplomacy
• Ability to interact effectively with diverse populations to include patients, staff, and faculty
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail. Ability to conceive, develop, manage and evaluate projects
• Proficiency with electronic health or dental record systems and Microsoft Office applications
• Reliable attendance, punctuality, and successful performance at past and present employers
• Busy clinic environment with frequent interruptions
• Environmental exposures include: blood, body fluids, nitrous oxide, and minimum radiation
• Exposure to educational and clinical workspaces will occur
• This position requires the ability to take the tram to and from the main campus for meetings, trainings, and other purposes

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of HIPAA and patient rights regulations
• Conflict resolution or mediation training
• Experience in an academic healthcare or dental school environment
• Experience in case management in a health care setting, such as hospital, clinic or health plan is preferred
• Bilingual or multilingual communication skills
• Training and experience in project management and/or process improvement
• Certification in Conflict Management or Resolution