Scheduler, Healthcare

Overview

The US Oncology Network is looking for a Scheduler to join our team at the Texas Oncology McAllen West clinic. This is a full-time position and can be at Level 1, Level 2, or Senior level based on experience.

Texas Oncology is the largest community oncology provider in the country with approximately 600+ providers across 220+ sites in Texas and southeastern Oklahoma. We focus on delivering high-quality, high-touch, evidence-based cancer care and offer a competitive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-term and Long-term disability, PTO, a 401(k) with company match, Wellness programs, Tuition Reimbursement, Employee Assistance, and discounts on select retailers.

Under direct supervision, the Scheduler is responsible for scheduling patient appointments and tests in an efficient and timely manner. They answer all incoming calls, direct calls to appropriate personnel, and act as a liaison between patients and medical staff. The role may include outside scheduling and/or surgical scheduling responsibilities. The Scheduler supports and adheres to the US Oncology Compliance Program, including the Code of Ethics and Business Standards.

• Answer all incoming calls; assess callers’ needs, direct to appropriate personnel, and page clinic staff as needed. Obtain and communicate messages accurately and promptly.
• Schedule new patients, patient referrals, and returning patients in the computer system in accordance with physician/office guidelines. Prepare new/referral patient records with proper documentation and coding. Cancel/reschedule appointments as physician schedules change; notify appropriate clinic personnel.
• Obtain and enter all insurance authorizations and referrals in patients’ charts/EMR.
• Collect co-pays, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket amounts at the time of visit.
• Maintain primary office scheduling template including physician meetings, satellite schedule, rounding, and call coverage.
• Arrange for patients to receive financial counseling as needed.
• Demonstrate understanding of patient confidentiality to protect patients and clinic information.
• Follow policies and procedures to improve front office efficiency and cover other front office functions as requested.
• Prepare correspondence, memos, forms, and other typing as requested by supervisor.
• May schedule outpatient appointments, testing, surgeries, and hospital admissions upon request; obtain necessary pre-certification as required.

• May communicate scheduling information to patients regarding surgeries or tests and coordinate prep work with necessary parties; gather patient information as needed.
• May follow up on all pre-operative tests to ensure clearance for surgery and coordinate with physicians and patients if further testing is required.
• May schedule post-operative follow-up appointments with physicians.
• Where applicable, apply basic medical terminology understanding for tests and procedures, including coding and lookup of codes for diagnoses, surgeries, and scheduling procedures.

The ideal Scheduler will have the following background and experience:

• Level 1 – High school diploma or equivalent required. Entry level with 0-3 years in a medical office setting preferred. Knowledge of medical terminology, scheduling, and/or authorization experience preferred. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel) required.
• Level 2 – In addition to Level 1:
  Minimum three years office experience, preferably in a medical office setting.
• Level Sr – In addition to Level 1 and 2:
  Minimum five years office experience, preferably in a medical office setting. Knowledge of medical terminology and coding required.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made. The role may require sitting for long periods, plus occasional stooping, bending, and stretching. Occasional lifting of up to 30 pounds. Manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment. Vision must be correctable to 20/20 and hearing normal for telephone contacts.

Prolonged computer use is required.

The work environment is an office setting with potential contact with patients and the public. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.