How to Become a Patient Access Representative in Michigan

Being the first line of patient care is a rewarding but demanding job.

A patient access representative is the front desk face of the business and will determine how patients feel about returning.

Overall, a patient access representative job is rewarding but hard.

Consider reading our guide if you want to become a Michigan patient access representative.

Below, we will explain the steps one must take to become qualified to work as a patient access representative.

We also cover common questions some might have about the job and where to get schooling.

Steps to Become a Patient Access Representative in Michigan

Becoming a qualified patient access representative in Michigan might seem a bit confusing.

However, the process is very straightforward if you understand what the job requires.

Below, we’ve made a step-by-step guide on how you can become a patient access representative in Michigan.

Step 1: Have a GED or High School Diploma

To become a patient access representative, you must have a GED or high school diploma.

This qualification is nationwide, and you must get it before applying for the job.

If you don’t, your application will be automatically rejected.

Step 2: Get Relevant Job Experience

Many people underestimate what relevant job experience can do if you want to work in a specific field.

Medical office work is often recommended if you want to become a patient access representative.

However, working in data entry, management, or customer service positions is also great.

Step 3: Pass Qualifications & Requirements

Each organization will have different requirements and qualifications necessary to work as a patient access representative.

In particular, some require that you have proficiency in Microsoft Office Products.

Others might expect you to lift 20 lbs or 50 lbs during work hours.

Make sure to familiarize yourself with the job qualifications you’re applying to.

Step 4: Get a Certificate

Education isn’t required, but it always boosts your chances of getting hired.

Certificate programs must be provided by the National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM), and the certificate program must be the Certified Healthcare Access Associate (CHAA) certificate.

Otherwise, it will only be a training course, not a certificate.

Step 5: Network & Volunteer

Medical offices are always looking for volunteers to help around the hospital.

If you don’t have qualifications, you can supplement that by gaining their trust and networking.

If you network well, you can apply for positions in that organization.

Step 6: Get a Good Resume

A good resume is key to getting hired for any job position.

Often, people just put on all of their work, which can look cluttered and irrelevant to the job.

Tailor your resume by including data management positions, specific skills, and qualifications unique to the patient access representative job.

Step 7: Practice Interview

Set up a practice interview with friends or family and have them act as the recruiter.

By practicing interviewing, you can showcase your interpersonal and communication skills.

A patient access representative must be clear, concise, and friendly.

If you demonstrate this during your interview, you will boost your chances of getting hired.

Step 8: Interview

Intervening might seem scary at first, but it’s a straightforward process.

Dress to impress and make sure to make eye contact.

Also, be sure to research the organization beforehand and understand its mission and goals.

Demonstrate and mention any relevant experience and qualifications to your interviewer.

Schools in Michigan

Patient access representative jobs don’t require that you have schooling.

However, if you want to boost your chances of being hired, you can take a few certificate programs.

Below, we will show you what’s available in the state of Michigan.

Extended Education NMC

The extended education programs at NMC offer Ed2go’s official Patient Access Representative training program.

The training program prepares students to sit for the CMAA or CEHRS certifications.

Here, you will learn all the skills you’d need to know to be a successful patient access representative.

Length of Program

The program consists of 250-course hours, which are self-paced.

You will be taking them online, and you can complete them within a 12-month period.

Students can complete the class sooner or later, depending on their own schedule.

Course Cost

The course does not provide financial aid, which means you will need to fund your own schooling.

The course total is $2,695, but you can use Affirm to pay.

The Ed2go institution partners with Affirm, allowing students to lower payments and pay as little as $131 monthly.

Course Overview

The course helps prepare you to sit for the exams and gain a certificate.

However, you will also learn about a real-world experience using the unique EHR simulators.

Here, you will be able to do tasks that are simulated to mimic real-world settings.

In addition, you will learn how to use Microsoft programs, work with patients, and learn about confidential laws such as HIPAA compliance.

Lastly, you will learn how to explain financial responsibility to patients and be able to communicate with insurance companies.

Patient Access Representative Schools in Michigan – Summary Table

Salary

The average annual salary of a patient access representative in Michigan makes an average of $49,976 annually.

On the low end, you can expect to make $45,476. On the higher end, you can expect to make $55,863.

Regional Salary in Michigan