Legal Assistant - Collections

Legal Assistant

The Legal Assistant shall assist the Associate Collection Counsel (ACC) in executing the day-to-day legal collection activities of West Virginia United Health System (WVUHS) and its affiliated entities. The LA interprets and applies the financial policies of WVUHS entities to make appropriate financial decisions and payment arrangements to ensure the financial viability of WVUHS and its entities. Corresponds with patients to resolve patient liability by adhering to all applicable statutes, rules and regulations including state and federal versions of the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act. Demonstrates the ability to assertively pursue necessary information and to secure financial resolution on accounts. Projects a mature problem-solving attitude while dealing with interpersonal conflict, dissatisfied patients and time constraints. Has and uses excellent customer service, written and oral communication skills.

Minimum Qualifications:

1. High School diploma or Equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Associates degree in business/office management, secretarial sciences, or related legal field.

2. One year experience in collections or in a law firm.

Core Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Interprets and applies the financial policies of WVUHS entities.

2. Makes appropriate financial decisions and payment arrangements to ensure the financial viability of WVUHS and its entities

3. Corresponds with patients and takes all necessary steps to resolve patient liability by adhering to all applicable statutes, rules and regulations including state and federal versions of the Fair Debt Collections Act.

4. Is knowledgeable of standards that regulate health care collections and works to ensure compliance with these standards.

5. Responds in a timely manner to requests for advice or information.

6. Maintains proper attendance and reports to work on time in accordance with applicable policies.

7. Provides adequate notice prior to absence or tardiness in accordance with applicable policies.

Physical Requirements:

1. Manual dexterity used in operating standard office equipment.

2. Prolonged periods of sitting.

Skills and Abilities:

1. Knowledge of and experience in health care collections preferred

2. Knowledge of and ability to comply with state and federal collection legislation, including, but not limited to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act

3. Knowledge of health care reimbursement systems.

4. Ability to communicate and interact with patients, financial services staff, nursing staff, administration, department heads, and other health care related personnel.

5. The ability to identify and resolve problems related to the collection of accounts.

6. Creativity, flexibility, and the ability to work under stress.