Referral Coordinator

​​​​​​Referral Coordinator

Location: Boone, North Carolina | Clinic/Outpatient Services | Non-Exempt

Why You'll Love Working Here

As a Referral Coordinator at UNC Health Appalachian, you'll play a crucial role in ensuring patients receive timely access to specialized care. Serving as the connection between primary care providers, specialists, diagnostic facilities, and patients, you'll help coordinate referrals, streamline communication, and support a seamless healthcare experience.

This position is ideal for a detail-oriented professional who enjoys organization, problem-solving, and helping patients navigate the healthcare system while contributing to high-quality care and positive patient outcomes.

Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone, North Carolina offers exceptional outdoor recreation, vibrant community living, and outstanding quality of life.

• Compensation: Hiring compensation ranges from $15.50 - $22.48/hour, based on education, experience, certification, and internal equity.
• Schedule: [Schedule Details Needed]
• Applicable Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement plan with employer match; paid time off; tuition reimbursement; wellness incentives; employee support programs; and professional development opportunities.
• Benefits Eligibility: Applicable benefits begin the first of the month following 60 days of employment from new hire orientation.
• Status: Non-Exempt

What You'll Do as a Referral Coordinator

Referral Management

• Receive and process referral requests from primary care providers.
• Verify insurance information and obtain necessary authorizations for referrals.
• Ensure all referral documentation is complete, accurate, and submitted in a timely manner.
• Track referral status and facilitate efficient processing throughout the referral cycle.

Communication & Coordination

• Coordinate with specialists, diagnostic facilities, and healthcare providers to schedule appointments.
• Maintain effective communication between referring providers and specialists.
• Update patients on referral status and provide appointment-related information.
• Serve as a resource for patients regarding referral processes and scheduling requirements.

Appointment Coordination

• Schedule and coordinate appointments for referred patients while considering urgency and patient preferences.
• Provide patients with detailed appointment instructions and preparation requirements.
• Ensure timely follow-up on referral requests and scheduling activities.

Record Keeping & Quality Assurance

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of referral activity.
• Enter and update information within the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
• Monitor referral outcomes to ensure timely and appropriate patient care.
• Identify and help resolve barriers or delays within the referral process.

What We're Looking For

Education

• High School Diploma required.

Experience

• One (1) year of prior experience in a medical or office setting preferred.
• Familiarity with medical terminology, insurance procedures, and healthcare regulations preferred.
• Experience using Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems preferred.

Licensure & Certifications

• Certification in Medical Office Administration or a related field preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to communicate courteously and effectively with patients, families, staff, physicians, and the public.
• Exceptional customer service and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong computer skills, typing ability, word processing, and basic mathematical skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to coordinate multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously.
• Knowledge of healthcare workflows, insurance processes, and patient scheduling practices.

Physical & Work Environment

Physical Demands

• Ability to sit and use a computer for extended periods.
• Manual dexterity to operate a keyboard, telephone, and office equipment.
• Ability to lift and carry light objects up to 20 pounds as needed.

Working Conditions

• Continuous sitting or standing for extended periods throughout the day.
• Frequent speaking, reading, and writing activities.
• Frequent hand, finger, and wrist movements requiring moderate dexterity.
• Frequent close visual work using computer systems and electronic records.
• Occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling of materials weighing less than 30 pounds.
• Office-based healthcare environment with regular interaction with patients, providers, and healthcare staff.

What Sets Us Apart

• Career Growth: Access tuition reimbursement, continuing education opportunities, and professional development programs.
• Impactful Work: Help connect patients with specialized care and improve access to healthcare services throughout the High Country.
• Team Culture: Join a collaborative, patient-focused team dedicated to service excellence and quality care.
• Mountain Lifestyle: Enjoy the natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and strong sense of community that make Boone one of North Carolina's most desirable places to live and work.

Ready to Make a Difference in Patient Access and Care Coordination?

Apply today to join UNC Health Appalachian as a Referral Coordinator and help ensure patients receive timely, coordinated access to the specialized care they need.

About UNC Health Appalachian

It's official. UNC Health Appalachian earned an "A" Leapfrog Patient Safety Grade. UNC Health Appalachian, the leader for healthcare in the High Country, comprises three hospitals, 13 medical practices, the Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation.

UNC Health Appalachian remains committed to promoting health in the High Country, enhancing quality of life, and simply "making life better."

About UNC Health

UNC Health is a state entity and an affiliated enterprise of the University of North Carolina system, comprised of 14 hospitals, 18 hospital campuses, and more than 500 clinics, along with the clinical patient care programs of the UNC School of Medicine.

It exists to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others we serve while furthering the teaching mission of the University of North Carolina School of Medicine. Over the past three years, UNC Health has provided more than $400 million in uncompensated and charity care to the citizens of North Carolina. Our hospitals have received numerous awards and recognitions for quality care, patient safety, and the overall patient experience.

For more information, visit unchealth.org.

Equal Opportunity Employer

UNC Health Appalachian embraces diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.

We value a workforce that reflects a variety of backgrounds and perspectives, as it enhances our ability to provide outstanding care. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.

UNC Health Appalachian is committed to providing a fair and inclusive hiring process and a workplace where all team members feel respected and empowered.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening.

For accommodations or additional information, contact [click to reveal email address]arhsrecruitment@unchealth.unc.edu.