Patient Financial Advocate

Patient Financial Advocate

Location: Boone, North Carolina | Full-Time | Monday–Friday, Standard Hours

Why You'll Love Working Here

As a Financial Advocate at UNC Health Appalachian, you'll help patients navigate insurance benefits and financial liability, serving as their trusted point of contact for financial assistance questions. You'll be part of a mission-driven health system committed to patient safety, quality outcomes, teamwork, and professional growth.

Nestled in the scenic Appalachian Mountains, Boone offers the perfect blend of community, culture, and outdoor adventure.

• Compensation: Starting at $16.97 per hour, based on education and experience.
• Benefits: Comprehensive medical/dental/vision, retirement with match, PTO, tuition reimbursement, paid parental leave, wellness incentives, and employee discounts.

What You'll Do as a Financial Advocate

• Help patients navigate and understand their insurance benefits and potential financial liability.
• Serve as the patient's point of contact for financial assistance questions.
• Collect payments, set up payment arrangements, and create cost estimates.
• Advise patients in person and over the phone on their insurance benefits and coverage.
• Assess patient referrals for appropriateness, as needed.
• Handle interactions with patients and families in an ethical manner, practicing compassion and respect.
• Communicate effectively with patients, families, visitors, colleagues, physicians, leadership, and volunteers.
• Adhere to UNC Health Appalachian policies, regulatory requirements, and standards of behavior.
• Approach work with a bias for action, efficiency, and personal accountability, modeling UNC Health Appalachian's Mission, Vision, and Values.

Qualifications

• Education:
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Associate degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field preferred.
• Experience:
  • 2 years of experience in Patient Financial Services and the revenue cycle required.
  • 1 year of prior experience in a similar role and scope preferred.
• Licensure/Certifications:
  • Licensure not required.
• Skills & Abilities:
  • Strong communication skills; ability to work within the chain of command using positive verbal and non-verbal techniques.
  • Collaborates with patients in planning and decision-making to reach optimal financial solutions.
  • Knowledge of the continuum of care provided within the organization.
  • Exceptional customer service for patients, families, staff, and physicians.

Physical & Work Environment

• Prolonged sitting, with periods of standing and walking, often 8+ hours per day; occasional bending, squatting, twisting, and turning.
• Occasionally lift, carry, push, or pull up to 20 lbs; manual dexterity and mobility required.
• Frequent hand, finger, and wrist repetition; near visual acuity and close eye work; speaking, reading, and writing for extended periods.
• Standard office environment, with occasional exposure to hazards from electrical/mechanical equipment.
• May be subject to irregular hours (days, evenings, nights, weekends, holidays) and emergencies.

What Sets Us Apart

• Career Growth: Structured advancement pathways, tuition reimbursement, and ongoing development through our Career Pathways Program.
• Impactful Work: As a Financial Advocate, you'll bring clarity and support to patients navigating one of the most stressful parts of their care journey, across our three community hospitals and outpatient facilities.
• Community & Lifestyle: Boone ranks among the best small towns in America, offering outdoor recreation, arts, culture, and a welcoming atmosphere.
• Inclusive Culture: UNC Health Appalachian is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring every team member feels valued and supported.

Ready to help patients navigate their financial journey with confidence? Apply today to join UNC Health Appalachian and make a lasting impact on our community.

About UNC Health Appalachian
UNC Health Appalachian is a premier healthcare provider in the High Country, operating three hospitals and a variety of medical services. We are committed to improving the health and quality of life for residents of the region.

About UNC Health
As part of the University of North Carolina system, UNC Health includes 14 hospitals and over 500 clinics, dedicated to advancing the health and well-being of North Carolinians.

Diversity and Inclusion
UNC Health Appalachian is committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. Employment is contingent upon successful background checks and drug screening. For accommodations or additional information, contact arhsrecruitment@unchealth.unc.edu.