How to Become a Patient Access Representative in Arizona

Many patients require support during their treatment, which is provided by specialized personnel known as patient access representatives.

These professionals collaborate with patients and healthcare providers to ensure clear information and emotional support are provided.

Let’s see how you can become a patient access rep in Arizona!

Steps to Becoming a Patient Access Representative in Arizona

Just like any other job, becoming a patient access representative involves a series of steps to follow in order to secure employment.

These steps are below!

1. Complete Your Education

To begin, you will need a high school diploma or GED, which is the minimum educational requirement for this occupation.

However, if you desire a higher income, as we will discuss later, you should consider obtaining an Associate’s Degree as well.

In Arizona, a college degree is not mandatory for this position, but having one will make your resume stand out.

Although there is no specialized degree for this job, your best options are a healthcare administration degree or an assistance degree.

Some candidates may even possess a Bachelor’s Degree.

The differences between these diplomas include the duration of study (2 to 4 years), the cost of education, the career advancement opportunities, and the specific career paths available.

2. Obtain a Certification

Currently, there are no certification or licensing requirements for patient access representatives in Arizona.

However, at the national level, several certifications are available for those aspiring to become patient access representatives.

Here are some certifications you can pursue:

• 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)

Any of these certifications will be beneficial in obtaining the desired position.

The most suitable certification for a patient access representative is the CHAA offered by the National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM).

This certification exam covers topics such as customer service, patient access services, and regulatory standards.

The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) also offers two certifications, CMAA and CEHRS.

All these certifications are recognized nationally. It’s important to note that these certifications can only be obtained by completing specialized training programs.

3. Gain Job Experience

Having relevant job experience is crucial for securing a position in the medical field.

For this particular role, it is beneficial if your previous work experience is somehow related.

Examples of related jobs include record keeping, data entry, medical software, and billing.

The best way to start is by getting hired or volunteering at local hospitals or other healthcare facilities.

It is advisable to begin this step as early as possible. Additionally, you can acquire the necessary training through your current job.

Training Programs for Patient Access Representatives in Arizona

Now, it’s time to have a look at the training options available for future patient access representatives in Arizona.

Penn Foster Career School

Penn Foster Career School offers an approved online training program.

The program covers topics such as Medical Terminology, Medical Coding, Electronic Medical Records, and Body Systems.

It lasts between 6 to 9 months to finish and is perfect for students who prefer virtual classes.

GateWay Community College

This school offers an all-encompassing training program that covers the fundamental skills and knowledge necessary to thrive as a Patient Access Representative.

Furthermore, it provides practical training opportunities alongside classroom-based learning.

These hands-on experiences enable students to acquire valuable real-world expertise.

By combining theoretical teachings with practical application, graduates are equipped with the necessary tools to excel in their roles as Patient Access Representatives.

Paradise Valley Community College

This institution offers a program that will teach you everything you need to know to get certified.

It includes both theory and practice, which will help you gain more experience in the field.

The program doesn’t last very long, and at the end of it, you can apply for certification.

Rio Salado College

If you need an online college, this school offers a program that you can attend virtually.

The program will cover the main topics that a patient access rep needs to know.

The classes are flexible, so this program is ideal for students who already have a job.

When the program finishes, you can apply for certification and successfully start your career.

Salaries for Patient Access Representatives in Arizona

It’s natural to be curious about the potential salary once you secure a job in your chosen field.

In Arizona, the median annual salary for a patient access representative is about $49,496.

This figure can be influenced by factors such as your level of experience, the location of your employment, your educational background, and other relevant factors.

For instance, you will earn more in a bigger city compared to smaller areas.

The following are some cities in Arizona where the income tends to be higher:

Regional Salary in Arizona

Patient Access Representative by State