Job Description
Job DescriptionPosition SummaryThe Desk Nurse serves as a key clinical liaison between patients and healthcare providers, ensuring efficient communication, coordination of care, and timely resolution of patient needs. This role is responsible for managing referrals and diagnostic testing, processing medication refill requests, and facilitating communication between patients, providers, pharmacies, and external healthcare partners.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Referral Coordination
- Initiate, schedule, and track referrals to specialists and ancillary services.
- Obtain and manage prior authorizations as required by insurance carriers.
- Follow up on referral status and ensure receipt of consultation reports.
- Communicate referral information, appointment details, and instructions to patients.
Diagnostic Imaging and Testing Coordination
- Schedule diagnostic imaging and other ordered tests.
- Track completion of studies and monitor receipt of results.
- Coordinate prior authorization requests when necessary.
- Ensure providers receive results for review and facilitate communication of results to patients.
Medication Management
- Process medication refill requests in accordance with provider directives and practice protocols.
- Review refill requests for completeness and compliance with clinical guidelines.
- Communicate with pharmacies regarding prescription clarification, refill status, and medication issues.
- Notify providers of refill requests requiring additional review or approval.
Documentation and Administrative Responsibilities
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the EMR.
- Monitor provider task queues, messages, and patient communications.
- Ensure compliance with HIPAA and confidentiality standards.
- Assist with care coordination initiatives and quality improvement efforts.
Qualifications
- Current Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license or Medical Assistant (CMA) certification in good standing.
- Strong knowledge of medical terminology, medications, and clinical workflows.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit for extended periods while working at a computer and telephone.
- Ability to communicate effectively by phone and in person.
- Ability to perform repetitive keyboarding and data entry tasks.