If you’re thinking about working in the medical field, but don’t want to spend the time or money it takes to become a doctor or nurse, then you may want to consider becoming a patient access representative.
These healthcare professionals are an integral part of all medical teams.
They are often the first people to see patients.
A patient access representative will usually sit at the front desk and greet patients.
But the job entails much more.
As a patient access representative, your job is to screen and register patients so they can receive care.
You’ll help them fill out forms, enter their information into the computer database and onto their charts.
Most of the time, the representative will be in charge of insurance and billing, communicate via phone and email with patients, insurance companies, and other professionals.
A patient representative may also schedule appointments, answer questions from patients, and review aftercare procedures with them.
Patient access representatives are able to work in doctor’s offices, clinics, hospitals, surgical centers, and nursing homes.
It’s a fast-paced and interesting job where you’ll meet a variety of people.
You’ll be able to help with the health and wellness of others, without having to be involved in the clinical aspect.
If this sounds like something you might like, and live in the state of Montana, read on for some helpful information on this profession.
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Steps To Becoming A Patient Access Representative In Montana
Montana does not require patient access representatives to be certified or licensed, nor do they require a specific degree.
However, you must have a high school diploma, and most employers in this field will expect certain skills and knowledge to be hired.
If you want to be hired as a patient access representative in Montana, you should be familiar with medical terminology and have basic knowledge of body systems.
You’ll also need basic computer skills like Microsoft Office and Excel, be organized, have excellent written and verbal skills, and an ability to multitask.
As far as formal education, some employers may hire based on other factors, but most will prefer that you have an associate’s degree or certificate of completion from an accredited school.
Below are a few schools in Montana that can help you gain the knowledge you’ll need to become a patient access representative.
Schools In Montana That Offer Patient Access Representative Programs
1. Flathead Valley Community College 
About The School
Flathead Community College offers a variety of associate degrees and individual courses for local and state residents to expand their knowledge and workforce skills.
Established in 1967 to provide students with an affordable alternative to university education, Flathead continues that tradition today, offering low-cost tuition and generous financial aid packages.
They pride themselves on connecting students with the campus and community by offering lectures, concerts, theater performances, a farmers’ market, and clubs.
Student housing is available for a small percentage of students.
About The Course
Flathead offers an associate’s degree in healthcare office management, which is perfect for preparing students to become patient access representatives.
The program courses include healthcare delivery, health data content, medical document formatting, medical terminology, coding, medical office procedures, electronic health records, data analytics, medical law and ethics, and computer technology.
The cost of the degree is $9,000 before financial aid.
A high school diploma is required to apply.
Address: 777 Grandview Dr. Kalispell, Montana 59901
Phone: (406)7563822
Website: Flathead community college
2. City College At Montana State University
About The School
The City College at Montana State has been offering degrees and training programs since 1969.
They are accredited by the American Association of Community Colleges and specialize in providing education in the professions that have the most need.
The school of health sciences offers 18 programs for people interested in the medical profession.
One program, health administration, would be perfect for someone wanting to pursue a career as a patient access representative.
About The Program
The health administration program at the City College of Montana offers a bachelor’s degree, but students are welcome to take individual classes to expand their knowledge and skills.
Courses include the American healthcare system, health administration, healthcare economics, health law and ethics, managing healthcare organizations, operations management, medical terminology, and health communication.
The cost of tuition is $4,100 per semester.
A high school diploma is required.
Address: 3803 Central Ave.cBillings, Montana 59102
Phone: (406)2473000
Website: https://www.msubillings.edu
Patient Access Representative Schools in Montana – Summary Table
Top 2 Schools in Montana
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Flathead Valley Community College | 777 Grandview Dr, Kalispell, MT 59901, United States |
| City College At Montana State University | 3803 Central Ave. Billings, Montana 59102, United States |
Salary For Patient Access Representatives In Montana
The average salary for a patient access representative in Montana is $31,775 per year.
This is below the nationwide average of $37,700 per year.
However, there are reported salaries as high as $42,650 per year.
Salary depends on several factors, including experience, type of facility, and location.
The top-paying cities in Montana for this profession are Belgrade, Billings, and Missoula.
Annual Salary Range:Average Salary of Patient Access Representatives in Montana
| City Name | Salary |
|---|---|
| Billings | $48,476 |
| Missoula | $42,555 |
| Great Falls | $44,379 |
| Belgrade | $42,555 |
| Bozeman | $42,555 |
| Helena | $43,311 |
| Kalispell | $45,127 |
| Havre | $43,623 |
| Capitol | $43,583 |
| Miles City | $47,720 |
Regional Salary in Montana
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Billings, MT | 210 | $48,880 | $23.5 | $58,320 | $37,660 |
| Great Falls, MT | 70 | $47,890 | $23.02 | $58,150 | $35,860 |
| Missoula, MT | 110 | $47,180 | $22.68 | $57,960 | $33,260 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are patient access representatives in demand in Montana?
According to Zippia, there are currently 976 openings for patient access representatives in Montana.
That would indicate pretty high demand.
Do patient access representatives need to wear a uniform?
It depends on the facility.
Sometimes they wear scrubs and sometimes they are able to dress in a business casual style.
What are the main qualities that a patient access representative must possess?
The most important qualities a patient access representative must have are good interpersonal skills, patience, ability to multitask, computer literacy, and organizational skills.
Do patient access representatives get benefits?
Yes.
Most full-time patient access reps get medical and dental benefits.
Many also get a prescription plan, a retirement plan, and vacation time.
