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Patient access representatives in Maine fulfill a crucial role in the healthcare industry.
These dedicated professionals act as intermediaries between patients and healthcare insurance providers, ensuring effective communication and providing valuable assistance throughout the healing process.
They are also responsible for various tasks, including registering patients, verifying insurance coverage, collecting and updating patient information, and scheduling appointments.
Article Table of Contents
Steps to Get Hired as a Patient Access Representative in Maine
Let’s see which steps you need to take to get hired for this job!
1. Educational Requirements
To be a patient access representative, you need a minimum of a high school diploma or GED.
However, individuals who wish to maximize their earning potential and enhance their qualifications are encouraged to obtain a degree.
A college degree is not needed in Maine, but it can provide a competitive edge over other candidates in the field.
No specialized degree programs are exclusively tailored for patient access representatives, but excellent options are available.
One such choice is a degree in healthcare administration.
The choice of degree program depends on various factors, including the duration of study, which can range from 2 to 4 years.
2. Get a Certification
In Maine, you don’t need a certification to work as a patient access representative.
But, getting a national certification can increase your career prospects.
There are several reputable certifications available for individuals aspiring to become patient access representatives in Maine.
These certifications encompass a range of specialized areas, including healthcare access, medical office management, billing, coding, and administrative support.
Some notable certifications offered in Maine include:
- Certified Healthcare Access Associate (CHAA)
- Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM)
- Certified Healthcare Access Manager (CHAM)
- Certified Professional Biller (CPB)
- Certified Billing & Coding Specialist (CBCS)
- Certified Professional Coder (CPC)
- Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)
- Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
- Certified Electronic Health Record Specialist (CEHRS)
Among these certifications, the CHAA certification provided by the National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM) is highly recommended for individuals pursuing a career as patient access representatives.
This certification exam covers essential topics such as customer service, patient access services, and regulatory standards, equipping professionals with the necessary expertise to excel in their roles.
Additionally, the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) offers two certifications, CMAA and CEHRS, which can also be valuable for those interested in the patient access representative role.
3. Work Experience
Gaining professional experience is a vital step for individuals who aspire to pursue a career as patient access representatives.
There are several key methods to acquire this experience.
Record Keeping
Patient access representatives need to develop strong skills in maintaining accurate and organized records.
This involves effectively documenting patient information and ensuring its accessibility when needed.
Data Entry
Proficiency in data entry is crucial for patient access representatives.
They are responsible for accurately inputting patient data into electronic systems or databases, ensuring that all information is recorded correctly.
Medical Software Proficiency
Familiarity with various medical software systems is essential for patient access representatives.
They need to navigate electronic health record systems and other software tools to retrieve and update patient information efficiently.
Billing
Understanding billing procedures and having a basic knowledge of medical coding is valuable for patient access representatives.
By gaining experience in these areas, individuals can develop the necessary skills and knowledge to excel as patient access representatives and contribute effectively to the healthcare industry.
Training Schools for Patient Access Representatives in Maine
Maine offers a range of healthcare training programs designed specifically for aspiring patient service representatives.
Next, we’ll have a look at some of the available programs.
University of Maine at Augusta 
This university offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management program.
This program equips students with the knowledge and skills to manage healthcare data, including medical terminology, medical record management, and insurance reimbursements.
It also includes training in administration and management.
University of Southern Maine 
Through this university, you can obtain a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences.
This degree provides a broader understanding of health sciences while covering relevant areas such as health data, health policy, health behavior, and healthcare delivery systems.
Additionally, there is a Certificate in Health Informatics program that focuses on the collection, storage, retrieval, dissemination, and utilization of healthcare information.
Kennebec Valley Community College 
This college offers an Associate of Applied Science in Medical Office Management training program.
This program prepares students for managing medical office environments, including tasks like scheduling, billing, and electronic health records.
Southern Maine Community College 
If you want an Associate of Applied Science in Health Science diploma, you will have to enroll in this college.
This comprehensive program provides students with a broad overview of the healthcare field, equipping them for various roles within the industry.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Kennebec Valley Community College | 92 Western Ave, Fairfield, ME 04937 |
| Southern Maine Community College | 2 Fort Rd, South Portland, ME 04106 |
| University of Maine at Augusta | 46 University Dr, Augusta, ME 04330 |
| University of Southern Maine | 96 Falmouth St, Portland, ME 04103 |
Salaries for Patient Access Representatives in Maine
In Maine, individuals interested in pursuing a career as patient access representatives can find numerous opportunities within the thriving healthcare industry.
With a diverse range of healthcare facilities and organizations throughout the state, the demand for skilled professionals in this field is high.
On average, patient access representatives in Maine earn an annual salary of approximately $48,860 per year.
It is important to note that actual salaries may vary based on factors such as individual experience, geographical location, and the specific employer.
For a more detailed breakdown of salary ranges, please refer to the next table.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| York | $51,804 |
| Acton | $51,044 |
| Alfred | $50,752 |
| Sanford | $50,577 |
| Windham | $49,957 |
| Saco | $49,889 |
| Portland | $49,558 |
| Scarborough | $49,558 |
| Auburn | $49,055 |
| Bremen | $49,055 |
Regional Salary in Maine
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bangor, ME | 260 | - NA - | - NA - | - NA - | - NA - |
| Lewiston-Auburn, ME | 30 | $43,300 | $20.82 | $58,820 | $33,570 |
| Portland-South Portland, ME | 340 | $45,580 | $21.91 | $65,770 | $35,670 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where will I find Employment as a PAR in Maine?
Future PARs from Maine can work in these types of settings:
- Acute care hospitals
- Extended care and mental health facilities
- State and federal agencies
- Insurance companies
- Colleges
- Transcription services and consulting
What skills do I need to work as a patient access representative in Maine?
These are some of the best skills to have for a PAR job:
- Customer service
- Communication
- Problem-solving,
- Organization,
- Computer
- General office
- Being calm
- Accuracy
Does my certification need renewal?
Nationally-recognized certifications usually need renewal.
How often this must be done depends on the institution issuing the certification.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Patient Access Representative
Patient Access Representative by State