Billing Assistant in Lafayette, Louisiana at Louisiana Gastroenterology

Position Summary

The Billing Assistant supports the billing and revenue cycle functions of the practice by assisting with claim processing, payment posting, patient account maintenance, and collection activities. This position requires strong attention to detail, accuracy, organization, and the ability to maintain confidentiality while working with patient financial and insurance information.

The Billing Assistant works closely with the billing team to ensure charges and payments are accurately processed, outstanding balances are appropriately addressed, and patient accounts remain current.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Billing & Claims

• Assist with daily billing activities and claim submission processes.
• Review claims for completeness and accuracy prior to submission.
• Identify missing or incorrect patient, insurance, or billing information and obtain necessary corrections.
• Assist with claim follow-up and resolution of billing issues.
• Review claim status and assist with identifying unpaid or rejected claims.
• Maintain accurate billing records and documentation.
• Assist with processing and correcting claim errors as directed.
• Communicate with insurance companies as needed regarding claim status and payment issues.

Payment Posting

• Post patient, insurance, and electronic payments accurately and timely.
• Apply payments and adjustments to the appropriate patient accounts.
• Balance and reconcile daily payment batches.
• Identify posting discrepancies and work with appropriate staff to resolve them.
• Process refunds, credits, and adjustments according to established policies and procedures.
• Maintain accurate documentation of posted payments and account activity.

Patient Accounts & Collections

• Review patient accounts for outstanding balances and account discrepancies.
• Assist with collection activities on past-due accounts.
• Contact patients regarding outstanding balances when appropriate.
• Assist patients with questions regarding statements, balances, payments, and account activity.
• Document patient account communications and collection activity accurately.
• Assist with payment arrangements in accordance with practice policies.
• Identify accounts requiring additional review or escalation and refer them to the appropriate team member.
• Maintain confidentiality of all patient financial and protected health information.

General Responsibilities

• Follow established billing, payment posting, collection, and financial policies and procedures.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the practice management system.
• Meet established productivity and accuracy standards.
• Protect patient confidentiality and comply with HIPAA and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Maintain a professional and courteous manner when communicating with patients, insurance representatives, and coworkers.
• Work collaboratively with the billing and administrative teams to support efficient revenue cycle operations.
• Assist with additional billing office duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous medical billing, healthcare administrative, or medical office experience preferred.
• Knowledge of medical insurance and revenue cycle processes preferred.
• Strong computer and data-entry skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to handle confidential information appropriately.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and work effectively in a team environment.

Physical and Work Requirements

• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced medical office environment.
• Ability to sit and work at a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to communicate effectively by telephone, electronic communication, and in person.
• Regular attendance and punctuality are essential functions of the position.