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Patient access representatives play a vital role in the healthcare industry, performing essential responsibilities that contribute to the smooth functioning of healthcare facilities.
One of their primary responsibilities is patient registration, which involves collecting accurate and timely information from patients for medical records and billing purposes.
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Road to Becoming a Patient Access Representative in New Mexico
If you’re considering a career as a patient access representative in New Mexico, there are some things you should know first, so read on.
Complete Your Education
To become a patient access representative in this state, you need at least a high school diploma or a GED.
You should consider getting an Associate’s Degree if you are looking for better career opportunities.
For that, you can easily join a healthcare administration program.
Getting a degree usually lasts 2 to 4 years, depending on your chosen program.
During the program, you will learn more about healthcare management, medical terminology, healthcare regulations, and ethics.
You will also learn how to communicate with patients, medical records management, and healthcare operations.
Get a Certification
In New Mexico, specific certifications are not legally required.
But, you should consider getting one in order to have better job prospects.
There are several certifications available, such as:
- Certified Healthcare Access Associate (CHAA)
- Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM)
- Certified Healthcare Access Manager (CHAM)
- Certified Professional Biller (CPB)
- Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS)
- Certified Professional Coder (CPC)
- Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)
- Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
- Certified Electronic Health Record Specialist (CEHRS)
Out of these, the best choice for future patient access representatives is the CHAA certification offered by the National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM).
The CHAA certification exam covers topics like customer service, patient access services, and regulatory standards.
Another good option is to go through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
The entity offers two certifications, CMAA and CEHRS.
These certifications validate the expertise and proficiency of individuals, making them more desirable candidates for employment.
Gain Work Experience
If you want to become a patient access representative, you will need some experience in the field.
There are several positions you can take, including:
- Record keeping clerk
- Data entry clerk
- Billing and Coding Specialist
- Customer support
These occupations will equip you with skills you’ll need the most in your new job as a PAR.
Of course, there are many other entry-level jobs that help you develop useful skills or expertise for patient access representatives.
Once you get some experience under your belt, it will be much easier to pursue your dream job.
Training Schools for Patient Access Representatives in New Mexico
In New Mexico, currently, there is one school that offers PAR training with a focus on preparing individuals for the Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) exam.
The program provides hands-on training to develop the necessary skills for this profession.
However, if this course does not meet your preferences, there are alternative options available.
One option is to consider online classes offered by out-of-state institutions.
You’ll have to pay attention to the type of certification you’ll be eligible to get.
The University of New Mexico 
This school offers an online PAR course at a cost of $2,695.
This program also provides hands-on training and covers important aspects such as proper paperwork management and patient handling techniques.
Moreover, it prepares students for both the CMAA and Certified Electronic Health Record Specialist (CEHRS) exams.
Meeting the eligibility requirements for these exams includes completing one of the following:
- Medical assistant training or education programs within the last five years
- Having one year of supervised work experience
All of these options can be fulfilled through the UNM’s training.
Penn Foster 
Alternatively, Penn Foster for Organizations offers PAR training that prepares individuals for the CMAA or CEHRS exams.
Their program includes wraparound learner support, assistance from instructors and coaches, and job training guidance.
While this program is typically pitched to employers, it is open to anyone interested in pursuing PAR training.
The main benefits of Penn Foster’s program include the flexibility of online learning and the potential to complete the course at a faster pace compared to other programs.
It is important to note that the training provided by Penn Foster is similar to what is offered by UNM.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Penn Foster | 925 Oak Street, Scranton, PA 18515 |
| The University of New Mexico | Albuquerque, NM 87131 |
Salaries for Patient Access Representatives in New Mexico
In New Mexico, the average annual salary for patient access representatives is around $46,752 per year.
However, it’s essential to consider that actual salaries may vary based on several factors, including geographical location, employing organization, and regional economic dynamics.
These factors can influence salary ranges and compensation packages for patient access representatives in different areas of New Mexico.
Metropolitan regions or areas with high demand for healthcare services may offer higher salaries compared to more rural locations.
Similarly, larger healthcare organizations or facilities might provide more competitive compensation packages.
To gain a better understanding of salary ranges and expectations in the field, check out the table below.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Albuquerque | $47,656 |
| Santa Fe | $47,482 |
| Coralles | $47,193 |
| Abiquiu | $47,137 |
| Lamy | $47,181 |
| Rio Rancho | $47,093 |
| Isleta | $46,992 |
| Hernandez | $46,729 |
| Navajo | $46,597 |
| Mentmore | $46,490 |
Regional Salary in New Mexico
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Albuquerque, NM | 760 | $49,260 | $23.68 | $64,510 | $34,830 |
| Farmington, NM | 80 | $46,940 | $22.57 | $65,670 | $30,990 |
| Las Cruces, NM | 80 | $38,910 | $18.71 | $53,450 | $29,090 |
| Santa Fe, NM | 80 | $50,930 | $24.49 | $60,750 | $33,990 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What skills do I need to work as a patient access representative in New Mexico?
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
How does my salary as a PAR in New Mexico compare to other states?
In New Mexico, PARs earn less compared to the median salary at the national level.
Despite this, these professionals still earn more than many other individuals working entry-level jobs, even in the medical field.
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