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Patient access representatives play a critical role in the healthcare industry, undertaking various responsibilities essential to the smooth functioning of healthcare facilities.
One of the primary responsibilities of patient access representatives is patient registration.
They meticulously gather accurate and timely information from patients, ensuring that all necessary details are collected for medical records and billing purposes.
Article Table of Contents
Road to Becoming a Patient Access Representative in Nebraska
Let’s see the steps you need to take to become an access patient representative in Nebraska.
1. Educational Requirements
In Nebraska, a high school diploma or GED is a fundamental requirement for individuals aspiring to become patient access representatives.
However, for those seeking enhanced professional opportunities, obtaining an Associate’s Degree is highly recommended.
When considering pursuing an Associate’s Degree, students have various options depending on their preferences and career goals.
Programs in healthcare administration or related fields are particularly beneficial.
These degree programs provide students with comprehensive knowledge and skills in healthcare management, operations, and leadership.
By pursuing an Associate’s Degree, aspiring patient access representatives gain a solid foundation in various aspects of healthcare administration.
They acquire a deep understanding of healthcare systems, regulations, ethical considerations, and effective management practices.
This knowledge prepares them to excel in their roles and take on responsibilities related to patient access, communication, and administrative support.
2. Get a Certification
In Nebraska, specific certifications are not legally required for individuals aspiring to work as patient access representatives.
However, obtaining national certifications can significantly enhance career prospects in this field.
Numerous certifications are available for those looking to pursue a career as a patient access representative in Nebraska.
Some notable certifications 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 aspiring patient access representatives.
The CHAA 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, namely CMAA and CEHRS, which can also be valuable for individuals interested in pursuing a career as patient access representatives.
By obtaining these certifications, individuals can enhance their qualifications, demonstrate their commitment to professional growth, and gain a competitive edge in the field.
3. Work Experience
Gaining professional experience is crucial for individuals aspiring to embark on a career as patient access representatives.
By securing positions in the following areas, individuals can acquire the necessary experience.
Record Keeping
Developing proficiency in maintaining accurate and well-organized records is essential for aspiring patient access representatives.
Data Entry
A job in the data entry field is a fundamental requirement for patient access representatives.
Billing and/or Coding
Gaining an understanding of billing procedures and possessing basic knowledge of medical coding proves valuable for patient access representatives.
Familiarity with billing systems and coding practices equips them to assist patients with insurance inquiries, verify coverage, and ensure accurate billing processes.
By actively engaging in these methods, individuals can enhance their work experience and develop the essential skills needed for success as patient access representatives.
Training Schools for Patient Access Representatives in Nebraska
The patient access representative programs you can join in Nebraska are detailed below.
Metropolitan Community College 
This college offers 3 programs under the Health Information Management Systems (HIMS) umbrella.
You can earn these types of diplomas:
- Associate in Applied Science: Medical Coding and Billing (HIMC1)
- Associate in Applied Science: Medical Office Management (HIMO1)
- Certificate of Achievement: Medical Office Assistant (HIACE)
Any of these is useful for a patient access representative career.
The program features subjects like:
- Healthcare delivery
- Health data content
- Medical document formatting
- Medical terminology,
- Coding,
- Medical office procedures
- Electronic health records
- Data analytics,
- Medical law
- Ethics
- Computer technology
Another program you could consider is Health Data and Information Management which also has at least 3 diplomas to choose from.
Northeast Community College
At this college, you have a Health Information Management Systems program through which you can earn a diploma or an AAS degree.
The program offered by this college includes classes on:
- The American healthcare system,
- Health administration,
- Healthcare economics,
- Health law,
- Ethics,
- Managing healthcare organizations,
- Operations management,
- Medical terminology
- Health communication.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Metropolitan Community College | 5300 N. 30th St., Omaha, NE 68111 |
| Northeast Community College | 801 E Benjamin Ave, Norfolk, NE 68701 |
Salaries for Patient Access Representatives in Nebraska
Nebraska provides many opportunities for people interested in pursuing a career in the healthcare field.
In Nebraska, the average annual salary for patient access representatives is about $47,558 per year.
Your salary may also depend on where you live, the employing entity, and the region you live in.
If you want to know where you have higher chances of earning more, check this next table.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Wauneta | $48,262 |
| Omaha | $47,505 |
| Bellevue | $47,505 |
| Rulo | $47,462 |
| Washington | $47,243 |
| Springfield | $47,243 |
| Wallace | $47,112 |
| Lincoln | $47,085 |
| Waverly | $47,042 |
| Shelton | $46,432 |
Regional Salary in Nebraska
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Island, NE | 90 | $52,560 | $25.27 | $70,440 | $34,980 |
| Lincoln, NE | 300 | $48,920 | $23.52 | $63,390 | $34,240 |
| Omaha-Council Bluffs, NE-IA | 780 | $60,610 | $29.14 | $69,100 | $36,070 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a PAR in Nebraska?
This depends solely on the duration of the training program.
The duration can be anywhere from 1 year and up to 4 years.
Where will I find Employment as a PAR in Nebraska?
Future PARs from Nebraska 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
How does my salary as a PAR in Nebraska compare to other states?
In Nebraska, PARs earn less compared to the median salary at the national level.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Patient Access Representative
Patient Access Representative by State