Collections Specialist

Welcome to Bay Area Clinical Associates (BACA), where we are dedicated to providing top-tier, evidence-based, and compassionate mental health services to children, teenagers, and their families. At the heart of our commitment is the provision of Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) and Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), designed for those experiencing moderate to severe mental health symptoms requiring a more focused approach than standard outpatient services.

Purpose: The Collections Specialist plays a crucial role in our organization by managing accounts receivable and ensuring timely collection of outstanding debts. This role requires exceptional attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a compassionate approach when interacting with clients facing mental health challenges. The ideal candidate will have experience in collections, preferably within the mental healthcare sector, and possess excellent communication skills to effectively negotiate payment arrangements, and resolve insurance denials and billing discrepancies.

Essential Functions:

• Manage accounts receivable by monitoring outstanding balances, following up on delinquent accounts, and implementing collection strategies to minimize bad debt.

• Communicate with clients via phone, email, and written correspondence to discuss payment options, resolve billing issues, and provide compassionate support throughout the collections process.

• Communicate with insurance companies via phone, email, and written correspondence including carrier portal to discuss claim statuses, appeals, and denials for a prompt payment process.

• Collaborate with internal departments, including billing and finance, to reconcile accounts, update records, and ensure accurate billing information.

• Maintain detailed documentation of all collection activities, including notes on client interactions, payment arrangements, and any adjustments made to accounts.

• Stay up-to-date on industry regulations and best practices related to collections and billing processes in the healthcare and nonprofit sectors.

• Identify opportunities for process improvement and contribute to the development of policies and procedures to enhance efficiency and effectiveness within the collections department.

Competencies:

• Strong understanding of billing processes, insurance claims, and reimbursement procedures within the healthcare industry.

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to empathetically communicate with clients experiencing mental health challenges and navigate sensitive situations professionally and tactfully.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office & Google Suites and preferred with experience with RCM software AdvancedMD.

• Detail-oriented with strong analytical skills and the ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively.

• Commitment to upholding ethical standards and confidentiality when handling sensitive financial information and client records.

Travel Requirements:

Once a week travel to the SJ clinic for deposits and mail distribution, and occasionally travel to a clinic for team meetings and/or training.

Required education and experience:

• Associate's degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or related field preferred.

• 2+ years of experience in collections, accounts receivable, or a related financial role, with experience in healthcare or nonprofit settings required.

Other Duties:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.