Health Insurance I

The Health Insurance I course is one of five courses comprising the Patient Access Specialist certification program. Patient Access Specialists represent the front line of the healthcare service for patients entering a practice, hospital or clinic with a constant eye toward excellent customer services and the overarching goal of achieving a positive experience for the patient. Patient Access Specialists must possess strong communication skills, an understanding of medical terminology and anatomy as well as a comprehensive understanding of the importance of the revenue cycle and medical insurance options available to patients. A clear understanding and successful transmission of information from the patient and medical insurance companies is paramount in guaranteeing prompt administration of medical treatment to the patient and quick financial reimbursement to the medical facility.

In order to optimize these processes and provide the best access for patients, healthcare professionals must have a clear understanding of the intricacies of navigating the health insurance system. In Health Insurance I, students will be introduced to the ins and outs of various health insurance coverage options for patients and operating processes for medical practices. The course will review employment opportunities that involve patient access and billing. Students will gain an understanding of basic health insurance information, including an overview of Healthcare reform. In addition, the course will introduce students to the concepts involved in working with managed care contracts as well as the basics of diagnostic and procedural coding. As one of five courses necessary to gain the Patient Access Specialist certification, the Health Insurance I course will ensure participants have the foundations necessary for success in this position.

The Health Insurance I course will address the following primary course objectives:

• Describe the employment skills and requirements in the patient access career field
• Explain the history and types of health insurance available in the United States
• Identify types of managed care contracts and their purposes
• Describe the purpose and guidelines of diagnostic coding and how it affects the billing process
• Describe the purpose and guidelines of procedural coding and its importance in the billing cycle

Certification:   This course constitutes 1 of the 5 courses necessary to become Certified Healthcare Access Associate
Certifying Body:   National Association of Healthcare Access Management.

Click HERE for Certification Information