How to Become a Patient Access Representative in New Jersey

Patient access representatives are vital to the healthcare industry, as they perform essential responsibilities that contribute to the smooth functioning of healthcare facilities.

One primary responsibility is patient registration, which involves collecting accurate and timely information from patients for medical records and billing purposes.

Road to Becoming a Patient Access Representative in New Jersey

If you’re considering a career as a patient access representative in New Jersey, here are the steps you should follow.

1. Complete Your Education

In New Jersey, obtaining a high school diploma or GED is a core requirement for all jobs.

But, for those seeking professional growth, pursuing an Associate’s Degree is a good option.

When considering an Associate’s Degree, aspiring patient access representatives have a variety of options available to them.

Programs in healthcare administration are well-suited for future patient access representatives.

These comprehensive programs equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their roles.

Aside from the Associate’s Degree, a Bachelor’s Degree is another very good diploma to obtain.

2. Get a Certification

In New Jersey, specific certifications are not legally required.

However, obtaining a nationally recognized certification can significantly enhance career prospects within this field.

There are several such certifications to choose from, such as:

• 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)

Future patient access representatives are strongly advised to get the Healthcare Access Associate certification (CHAA).

This credential is offered by the National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM).

The CHAA certification covers topics such as customer service, patient access services, and regulatory standards.

Additionally, the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) also offers two very useful certifications.

These are the CMAA and CEHRS.

Any of the certifications mentioned earlier validate the expertise and proficiency of individuals, making them more desirable candidates for employment.

3. Gain Some Work Experience

Building professional experience is crucial for individuals aspiring to pursue a career as patient access representatives.

There are several occupations that can provide valuable skills and knowledge applicable to the role of PARs.

Working as a data entry clerk can significantly contribute to mastering a fundamental requirement for patient access representatives: data entry.

This occupation hones your skills in accurately and efficiently inputting data, which is essential for the seamless processing of patient information and appointments.

Those with experience in the billing and/or coding field acquire a good understanding of billing procedures and possess solid knowledge of medical coding.

This expertise proves valuable for patient access representatives as they assist patients with insurance inquiries, verify coverage, and ensure accurate billing processes.

Furthermore, keeping records is another occupation that fosters proficiency in maintaining accurate and well-organized records.

This skill is essential for aspiring patient access representatives as it ensures proper management of patient information and contributes to the smooth functioning of healthcare operations.

While the aforementioned occupations are directly related to the medical field, it is important to note that entry-level positions in any healthcare-related job can provide the necessary skills for a career as a patient access representative.

Training Schools for Patient Access Representatives in New Jersey

If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a patient access representative in New Jersey, there are several programs you might consider.

Below are a few examples.

Rutgers School of Health Professions

This school offers a program covering:

• Medical terminology,
• Health data management,
• Health services organization
• Delivery

Students gain a broad understanding of the healthcare industry and administrative responsibilities, preparing them for patient access representative roles.

Rowan College

The program available at this college focuses on essential courses like:

• Medical terminology
• Healthcare information systems
• Office administration.

The acquired skills and knowledge are highly relevant to a career as a patient access representative.

Camden County College

This program provides students with a strong foundation in:

• Medical terminology,
• Health data management
• Healthcare documentation
• Health information law

The comprehensive curriculum prepares students for various healthcare roles, including a PAR.

Atlantic Cape Community College

This college has a program with coursework in:

• Medical terminology
• Medical office procedures
• Billing
• Healthcare information systems

Students gain the necessary knowledge and skills to work effectively as patient access representatives.

Berkeley College

This program prepares students for diverse roles in the healthcare field, including a PAR.

It provides knowledge in medical terminology, healthcare systems, and health services management.

By exploring these programs, you can find the educational path that aligns with your career goals.

Each program offers unique coursework and valuable skills to support your professional growth in the healthcare industry.

Salaries for Patient Access Representatives in New Jersey

New Jersey offers abundant opportunities for individuals seeking a career in the healthcare industry.

One promising occupation within this field is that of a patient access representative, with competitive salaries available.

In New Jersey, the average annual salary for patient access representatives is approximately $55,799 per year.

Regional Salary in New Jersey

Patient Access Representative by State