How to Become a Patient Access Representative in Maine

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How to Become a Patient Access Representative in Maine

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.

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!

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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
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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:
$44K
$48K
$54K
10%
50%
90%
Annual Salary by Location:
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, ME100$45,040$21.65$61,730$33,390
Lewiston-Auburn, ME30$49,310$23.71$71,380$35,410
Portland-South Portland, ME300$48,470$23.3$69,700$37,720
* Salary information based on the May 2023 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Medical Records Specialists, OCC Code 29-2072, BLS.
* 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.

USA Patient Access Representative by State


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