Patient Financial Counselor in Lincoln, Nebraska at NEBRASKA HEMATOLOGY ONCOLOGY (NHO)

JOB TITLE: Patient Financial Counselor (Oncology)

JOB SUMMARY: The Patient Financial Counselor is responsible for providing comprehensive financial counseling and support to oncology patients to ensure understanding of financial obligations and access to appropriate financial resources. Reporting to the Director of Patient Financial Services, this role supports revenue cycle operations by identifying financial barriers to care, facilitating financial assistance, and promoting timely account resolution.

This position works collaboratively with clinical teams, Patient Financial Services, and revenue cycle staff to ensure accurate financial communication, coordination of benefits, and alignment between patient care and financial processes. The Patient Financial Counselor plays a key role in enhancing the patient financial experience while supporting organizational financial performance.

REPORTS TO: Patient Financial Services Supervisor

PRINCIPAL DUTIES: (This list may not include all duties assigned.)

· Provides financial counseling to patients receiving oncology services, including infusion and oral therapies, ensuring clear understanding of insurance coverage and out-of-pocket responsibilities.

· Identifies uninsured and underinsured patients prior to treatment and proactively addresses potential financial barriers to care.

· Verifies insurance benefits and evaluates coverage details to identify gaps, limitations, or atypical benefit structures.

· Estimates patient financial responsibility and communicates cost expectations in a clear, compassionate, and professional manner.

· Educates patients regarding insurance coverage, billing processes, and available financial options; addresses patient questions and concerns related to cost of care.

· Collaborates with providers and clinical staff when financial concerns may impact a patient’s decision to proceed with treatment.

· Establishes payment plans and secures deposits in accordance with organizational policies and procedures.

· Assists patients in accessing internal and external financial assistance programs, including charity care, medication assistance programs, and foundation support.

· Completes, submits, and tracks financial assistance applications; follows through on outcomes and facilitates reapplication when necessary.

· Reviews and monitors patient accounts to identify individuals who may benefit from additional financial support; conducts follow-up as appropriate.

· Ensures effective communication and coordination of financial and authorization information across departments, including nursing, providers, pharmacy, social work, and revenue cycle teams.

· Participates in multidisciplinary meetings to support coordinated patient care and address financial needs.

· Maintains accurate and timely documentation of financial counseling activities in accordance with organizational standards.

· Works closely with Patient Financial Services and billing teams to support timely account follow-up and resolution.

PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS: Strong interpersonal and communication skills are required, with the ability to discuss sensitive financial matters with empathy and professionalism. The role requires the ability to analyze insurance benefits, interpret financial data, and identify appropriate solutions for patients.

· Knowledge of insurance plans, reimbursement processes, and prior authorization requirements

· Understanding of medical terminology and healthcare billing practices

· Ability to manage multiple priorities and maintain attention to detail

· Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills

· Ability to collaborate effectively with patients, providers, and interdisciplinary teams

· Knowledge of financial assistance programs and resources available to patients preferred

TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Requires full range of motion including manual and finger dexterity and eye-hand coordination. Occasionally lifts and carries items weighing up to 25 pounds. Requires corrected vision and hearing within normal range.

EDUCATION:

· High school diploma or GED required.

· Associate degree in healthcare administration, business, or a related field preferred.

EXPERIENCE:

· Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in healthcare billing, patient financial services, or revenue cycle operations

· Working knowledge of insurance plans, reimbursement processes, and pre-certification requirements

· Experience with automated billing systems and patient account management

· Oncology or specialty care experience preferred

ALTERNATIVE TO MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree