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Having a comprehensive understanding of the key aspects of the patient access representative role is essential for individuals aspiring to pursue a career in this field in Ohio.
Patient access representatives play a vital role within the healthcare system, carrying out essential tasks that contribute to the smooth operation of healthcare facilities.
One of their primary responsibilities is patient registration, which involves collecting accurate information for medical records and billing purposes.
They ensure that all necessary details are efficiently gathered in a timely manner.
Article Table of Contents
Road to Becoming a Patient Access Representative in Ohio
If you are considering a career as a patient access representative, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the responsibilities and expectations associated with this role.
This knowledge will enable you to navigate the profession effectively and prepare you for success in your position.
Complete Your Education
To embark on a career as a patient access representative in Ohio, a high school diploma or GED is the minimum requirement.
However, it is worth noting that obtaining an Associate’s Degree can significantly enhance career opportunities in this field.
An Associate’s Degree typically takes 2 to 4 years to complete and offers students comprehensive knowledge across various aspects of healthcare management.
Throughout the program, students delve into subjects such as medical terminology, healthcare regulations, ethical considerations, and healthcare operations.
This will give you the chance to get the needed skills to pass the exam and get your certification.
Get a Certification
As of now, there are no specific certification or licensing requirements for individuals pursuing a career as patient access representatives in Ohio.
However, there are several national certifications available that can significantly benefit those interested in this field.
The most popular certifications for this occupation are:
- 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)
Obtaining any of these certifications can enhance the prospects of securing a position as a patient access representative.
Among these certifications, the CHAA certification provided by the National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM) is particularly well-suited for this role.
The CHAA certification exam covers essential topics such as customer service, patient access services, and regulatory standards, ensuring that certified professionals possess the necessary expertise.
Additionally, the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) offers two widely recognized certifications, CMAA and CEHRS, which can also be beneficial for individuals seeking career opportunities as patient access representatives.
Gain Some Work Experience
If you want to work as a patient access representative, you will first have to get some job experience.
You can get the experience you need by taking positions such as:
Record Keeping Clerk
This role involves the effective management and documentation of patient information and medical records.
Data Entry Clerk
Data entry entails accurately and efficiently inputting patient data and information into various systems and databases.
Front Office Personnel
Absolutely, working in a role like a front office person provides valuable experience in handling a wide variety of individuals, each with their unique needs and concerns.
This exposure enhances your interpersonal skills and adaptability, making you more effective in providing excellent patient care and support.
Billing and/or Coding Clerk
Experienced professionals in billing and/or coding have a strong grasp of billing procedures and extensive knowledge of medical coding.
This expertise becomes highly valuable for patient access representatives, enabling them to assist patients with insurance inquiries, verify coverage, and ensure precise billing procedures.
Training Schools for Patient Access Representatives in Ohio
Right now, Ohio does not provide many physical options when it comes to training programs.
But, there are some schools you can consider.
One of these schools is actually a community college course that can provide adequate preparation for this career path.
If you are seeking guided educational support, it is recommended to consider this option.
Cuyahoga Community College 
Located in Cleveland, this school provides a patient access representative certification class.
It will cover topics that include medical terminology, electronic health records, and the fundamentals of patient access services.
The curriculum also includes comprehensive training on billing processes, ensuring that you acquire knowledge in this crucial area.
Reimbursement lessons are provided to help you gain practical experience.
While completing this virtual program, you will receive guidance throughout the certification process, enabling you to develop important skills necessary for the role of a patient access representative.
It’s important to note that upon finishing the course, you will not earn a degree.
However, you will be well-prepared to undertake your certification test, which can significantly enhance your career prospects in the field.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Cuyahoga Community College | 4250 Richmond Rd, Highland Hills, OH 44122 |
Salaries for Patient Access Representatives in Ohio
You should know that the median yearly salary for patient access representatives in Ohio is about $49,710.
How much you make depends on where you live and your employer.
If you want to know more about the salaries you can get in this state, check out this table.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Lakewook | $50,034 |
| Cleveland | $49,600 |
| Bedford | $49,580 |
| Addyston | $49,545 |
| Columbus | $49,335 |
| Cincinnati | $49,136 |
| Lorain | $49,075 |
| Caledonia | $49,034 |
| Dayton | $48,774 |
| Xenia | $48,663 |
Regional Salary in Ohio
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Akron, OH | 490 | $50,880 | $24.46 | $71,710 | $35,990 |
| Canton-Massillon, OH | 170 | $46,590 | $22.4 | $62,980 | $32,040 |
| Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN | 1,480 | $52,250 | $25.12 | $71,850 | $37,280 |
| Cleveland-Elyria, OH | 1,260 | $54,780 | $26.34 | $74,230 | $37,120 |
| Columbus, OH | 1,300 | $53,820 | $25.87 | $74,780 | $37,280 |
| Dayton, OH | 440 | $50,220 | $24.14 | $71,130 | $35,910 |
| Lima, OH | 130 | $46,760 | $22.48 | $69,250 | $31,820 |
| Mansfield, OH | 40 | $44,570 | $21.43 | $62,160 | $34,200 |
| Springfield, OH | 40 | $44,530 | $21.41 | $60,090 | $27,030 |
| Toledo, OH | 350 | $47,100 | $22.64 | $62,550 | $35,430 |
| Youngstown-Warren-Boardman, OH-PA | 160 | $41,800 | $20.1 | $57,430 | $30,270 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What skills do I need to work as a patient access representative in Ohio?
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
Does my certification need renewal?
Nationally-recognized certifications usually need renewal.
How often this must be done depends on the institution issuing the certification.
How does my salary as a PAR in Ohio compare to other states?
In Ohio, patient access representatives close to the median salary at the national level.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Patient Access Representative
Patient Access Representative by State