How to Become a Patient Access Representative in Hawaii

A patient access representative is responsible for administrative duties in a healthcare setting.

As of 2023, the job outlook will decline slightly by 2%.

However, that doesn’t mean that the job will go away.

If you’re interested in becoming a patient access representative and have no idea where to start, don’t worry.

We’ve crafted a step-by-step guide on how you can become a patient access representative in Hawaii.

Steps to Become a Patient Access Representative in Hawaii

A patient access representative in Hawaii requires a few skills that other states might not.

This might include keystroke counts, experience, and education.

Below, we’ll explain a step-by-step process so that you can become a patient access representative in Hawaii.

Step 1: Obtain High School Diploma or GED

A patient access representative must have a high school diploma or equivalent education in Hawaii.

This includes the completion of a GED program.

Applicants must have graduated by the time of hire.

Otherwise, they will not be accepted without a certificate or relevant job experience.

Step 2: Gain Experience in the Field

In Hawaii, you will be required to have experience depending on the level of patient access representative position you apply for.

There are three levels, each requiring at least one year of minimum experience.

You will need two years of experience for level two, and for level three, you will need three years.

You will also need relevant experience using Microsoft Excel, Word, and more.

Step 3: Research Qualifications & Requirements

Other qualifications include education, good verbal and written, and interpersonal skills.

Patient access representatives will also need to be able to work independently, can work in changing situations, and can be confidential with healthcare records.

In addition, prior experience with medical terminology, third-party payer regulations, and financial requirements is necessary.

Other qualifications might include lifting up to 25 lbs and being able to type a certain amount of words per minute.

In addition, many companies ask for at least one year of experience in medical office work, admissions, or insurance billing.

Step 4: Gain Certifications

While it’s not required in Hawaii that you have an official patient access representative certificate, it does help.

If you’re looking to further your education and better your chances of being hired, getting a certificate can help.

Focus on getting a certificate that the National Association of Healthcare Access Management accredits.

Step 5: Network & Attend Job Fairs

Hawaii might not be that big regarding landmass, but it has a decent-sized population.

With limited job openings, networking is crucial as a possible patient access representative.

Attending volunteer workshops, connecting with other healthcare professionals, and attending job fairs are all excellent ways to get more connections.

Step 6: Tailor Your Resume & Cover Letter

Tailoring your resume and cover letter to fit the job is always a good choice.

When applying for a patient access representative job, the recruiters look for specific experience and skills.

Listing relevant job experience in customer service, administration, and management can help boost your application.

Also, including your keystrokes, Microsoft program experience, and more can help boost you to the top.

Step 7: Practice Interviewing

Talking to a recruiter is also crucial during the interview process.

During this time, they will be looking for applicants who can be sympathetic and polite but also accurate.

Since you will communicate with patients, they want someone cheerful and comforting.

Practice talking to an interviewer and learn to answer questions quickly but accurately.

Step 8: Interview

The interview process will consist of a few rounds.

If you get a callback, you’ll likely get the position.

During the interview, be sure to dress appropriately.

You will want to be business casual and look professional.

Aside from that, mention your skills and demonstrate good interpersonal skills with the recruiter.

Schools in Hawaii

Hawaii doesn’t require that you get an official certificate.

However, completing schooling can help boost your application and also ensure that you get a higher salary.

So, taking a training course can help your overall application.

Ensure that the training program you complete is accredited by the National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM).

Leeward Community College

Leeward Community College is part of Hawaii’s Continuing Education & Workforce Development.

Here, students can find a wide range of classes for training, certificates, and degrees.

The college also offers financial student aid, which can be helpful for recent high school graduates.

Length of Program

The program includes 100 instructional hours and is delivered in person at Leeward Community College.

Classes are Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8:30 am until 2:30 pm.

The course takes a minimum of seven weeks to complete.

All class sizes are kept small, with only 8-20 students.

Course Cost

The course total comes to $1,600.

You will have to pay before attending the classes in person.

You can contact Leeward Community College’s financial aid office if you can’t afford it.

They can help you find resources so that you can take the course.

Course Overview

The patient service representative program will allow students to learn the foundations of the healthcare delivery system.

Students will learn to be frontline customer service agents in a medical office or hospital setting.

After completing the course, students will be ready to work in entry-level positions as a PSR.

Learning outcomes include utilizing therapeutic communications in a professional setting.

Being able to use technology to their advantage while also using appropriate skills and tools.

They can perform entry-level work with medical terminology, treatment, and insurance.

They will also demonstrate an understanding of HIPAA compliance and legal issues.

Patient Access Representative Schools in Hawaii – Summary Table

Salary

A patient access representative will earn an average of $52,870 as of 2023.

The low range falls at $48,109.

On the other hand, the higher end for senior levels is $52,097.

This number can be higher or lower depending on what level you are and how much experience you have.

Regional Salary in Hawaii