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Financial Services Associate II
Company : Catholic Health Initiatives
Location : San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401
Job Type : Full Time
Salary : 24-32.74 HOUR
Date Posted : 9 January 2026
Job Summary and Responsibilities
In keeping with the PHC philosophy, the Financial Services Associate I serves as the liaison for patients and provides education to patients regarding insurance coverage and guidelines. The Financial Services Associate I will evaluate insurance options and clinical services to meet the needs of the patients. The Financial Services Associate I is responsible for the tracking of insurance requirements, ensuring accurate documentation of completed requirements in GE, pre-authorizations, complete the check out process with patients included cash collections. The role will promote quality, cost-effective outcomes, managing financial and clinical care needs through the continuum of care utilizing effective verbal and written communication skills. The Financial Services Associate is responsible for facilitating a positive patient experience through coordination and advocacy in terms of obtaining financial clearance, required pre-certifications, authorizations and/or referrals, identifying eligibility for payment assistance programs/preparing payment plans and other interactions with the patient. The Financial Services Associate will also provide support with other clinic activities when needed. PHC is committed to excellent patient care and service. We strive to develop cohesive teams where all levels of employees can work together. That being said, we have developed the job descriptions to define the
primary tasks and responsibilities. However, it does not preclude all staff to support the functions of the entire clinic. Some PSA and FSAs may be asked to do work that is outside their daily assignments, especially when working in smaller locations or when trying to address staff vacancies. This team approach will support our goal of keeping the Patient as our focus.
Job Requirements
- 6 months experience working in an outpatient/physician office environment including financial counseling , insurance verification and authorization.
- Strong customer service skills.
- Communicates effectively and works cooperatively with others.
- Ability to prioritize multiple tasks
- Demonstrates ability to work closely with physicians to ensure quality in delivery of clinic services as related to patient care and front desk procedures are required.
- Must possess a proactive flexible approach to problem solving
- Ability to lead and participate in teams
- Ability to execute directives toward established goals
- Ability to meet deadlines and work well under pressure while maintaining attention to detail and a positive outlook/attitude
- Ability to interpret patient invoices
- Knowledge of payer and regulatory guidelines for medical insurance claims processing and reimbursement.
- Knowledge of the processes and procedures related to the eligibility requirements of various insurance entities including government and private payers.
- Thorough knowledge of Medicare, Medi-Cal, Physicians Choice and CenCal.
Dignity Health’s Pacific Central Coast Health Centers (PHC) is a non-profit Community clinic organization comprised of more than 40 health centers located primarily from Ventura to Templeton, spanning the coast. Our experienced physicians and advanced practice providers offer a wide range of primary and specialty care services. PHC is a part of Dignity Health Central Coast’s award-winning network of outstanding hospitals, imaging centers, laboratories, and post-acute services.
One Community. One Mission. One California
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Frequently asked questions
Professionals in this position use thorough knowledge of Medicare, Medi-Cal, and private insurance policies to assess patient coverage accurately. They coordinate pre-authorizations and payment plans, ensuring compliance while streamlining patient financial clearance in outpatient clinic settings.
This associate level demands advanced skills in insurance verification, clinical service coordination, and proactive problem-solving. Unlike entry roles, it requires leading team efforts, interpreting intricate patient invoices, and managing deadlines under pressure with detailed accuracy.
Progression often involves moving into supervisory or specialist roles within healthcare finance, such as financial counseling leadership or operations management. Gaining expertise in payer regulations and developing strong interdepartmental communication can open doors to higher responsibility positions.
Catholic Health Initiatives emphasizes continuous learning, providing access to workshops on insurance guidelines, patient advocacy, and compliance procedures tailored to Financial Services Associates. This support helps employees maintain up-to-date expertise relevant to healthcare finance.
At Catholic Health Initiatives, the role integrates closely with clinical teams across multiple community health centers, emphasizing a patient-centered approach and team collaboration. The nonprofit environment fosters flexible task management, supporting both financial and patient care objectives uniquely.
Salaries generally range between $45,000 and $58,000 annually, influenced by experience and clinic size. San Luis Obispo's cost of living and demand for healthcare finance professionals contribute to competitive compensation packages within regional outpatient settings.
Certifications related to medical billing, coding, or healthcare finance, such as Certified Healthcare Financial Professional (CHFP), enhance employability. Local employers also value familiarity with California-specific insurance programs like Medi-Cal and Medicare regulations.
The community’s emphasis on integrated care means associates often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. Regional demand for outpatient services drives a dynamic workload, requiring adaptability and strong communication skills to navigate diverse patient financial needs effectively.
Managing multiple insurance authorizations simultaneously and resolving discrepancies in patient billing require meticulous attention. Balancing patient advocacy with organizational financial goals and adapting to evolving regulatory standards also present ongoing challenges.
While primarily healthcare-focused, the role hones skills in financial analysis, client communication, and regulatory compliance, which are transferable to broader financial services careers. However, additional industry-specific credentials would be necessary for investment-related positions.