How to Become a Patient Access Representative in Virginia

In the realm of healthcare, numerous patients seek additional support throughout their treatment journey.

This invaluable assistance is provided by dedicated professionals known as patient access representatives.

These professionals hold a vital role in facilitating communication between patients and healthcare providers.

Check out this article to learn more about becoming a patient access representative in Virginia.

Steps to Becoming a Patient Access Representative in Virginia

How does a PAR career start?

It starts with a few preparatory steps, as seen below!

Complete Your Education

First, you must first acquire a high-school diploma or GED, as it serves as a primary requirement for this profession.

However, for those aspiring to boost their income potential, pursuing an Associate’s Degree becomes a good option.

While not obligatory for the patient access representative role in Virginia, obtaining a college degree can undoubtedly enhance your career prospects.

It is important to acknowledge that there are no specialized degrees explicitly tailored for patient access representatives.

Opting for a degree program in healthcare administration or medical assistance presents the most suitable alternatives.

Furthermore, it is worth noting that some candidates may have achieved a Bachelor’s Degree, which can provide additional advantages in the job market.

The degrees mentioned above last between 2 and 4 years.

Become Certified

In Virginia, obtaining certification as a patient access representative is not a legal requirement.

However, acquiring certification can significantly enhance your chances of securing the desired position.

Opting for a nationally recognized certification is highly recommended.

There are several reputable national certifications available for individuals aspiring to become patient access representatives.

Some of the noteworthy certifications include:

• Certified Healthcare Access Associate (CHAA)
• Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)
• Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
• Certified Electronic Health Record Specialist (CEHRS)
• Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM)
• Certified Healthcare Access Manager (CHAM)
• Certified Professional Biller (CPB)
• Certified Billing & Coding Specialist (CBCS)
• Certified Professional Coder (CPC)

Earning any of these certifications will not only showcase your expertise but also set you apart as a strong contender in the job market.

A good choice is the CHAA certification offered by the National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM).

This certification exam thoroughly assesses your proficiency in critical areas like customer service, patient access services, and regulatory standards.

Alternatively, you can opt for certifications from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), such as CMAA and CEHRS.

You will need to finish a training program to apply for any of these certifications.

Gain Some Work Experience

Aspiring to work in the healthcare industry as a patient access representative requires more than just theoretical knowledge.

Practical experience plays a pivotal role in not only enhancing your qualifications but also equipping you with valuable skills that are essential for the job.

To acquire the necessary job experience in this field, consider exploring opportunities in various areas such as:

• Record keeping
• Data entry
• Medical software utilization
• Handling billing tasks

Additionally, another valuable option to gain practical experience is by either securing employment or volunteering at a local healthcare facility.

Training Schools for Patient Access Representatives in Virginia

For those aspiring to become patient access representatives in Virginia, the availability of specialized programs is a key consideration.

Fortunately, there are several educational institutions offering courses tailored to prepare individuals for this rewarding career path.

Whether you prefer the flexibility of online learning or the traditional classroom setting, you have options to choose from.

Penn Foster

This online institution offers a comprehensive program designed to equip you with the necessary skills to excel in the industry.

By enrolling in this program, you will be well-prepared to take and successfully pass the Certified Medical Administrative Assistant exam and the Certified Electronic Health Records Specialists exam.

The course typically spans six to nine months, allowing you to study at your own pace and accommodate other commitments.

Throughout the program, you will study various essential topics, including:

• Medical Office Procedures,
• Body Systems and Medical Terminology
• Pathology and Pharmacology,
• Electronic Medical Records,
• Medical Billing and Coding
• Health Insurance,
• Law,
• Ethics,
• Confidentiality

This diverse curriculum ensures that you gain a comprehensive understanding of the responsibilities and knowledge required to thrive as a patient access representative.

Salaries for Patient Access Representatives in Virginia

For many individuals, securing a patient access representative certification is a significant milestone in their healthcare career.

But beyond the sense of achievement, it’s only natural to wonder about the financial rewards that lie ahead.

In Virginia, patient access representatives are well-regarded and rightfully compensated for their valuable contributions.

On average, these professionals earn an impressive annual salary of approximately $50,381 per year.

This figure serves as a promising sign of the rewarding prospects that await those who venture into this field.

However, it is essential to recognize that several factors can sway individual earnings in this role.

Your level of experience and expertise can hold sway over your income, as well as the specific geographical location of your workplace.

To gain a more detailed insight into the salaries for patient access representatives in Virginia, read the table below.

Regional Salary in Virginia

Patient Access Representative by State