A radiology coordinator is a medical administrative assistant who supports the radiology operation of a healthcare facility. In addition to traditional administrative duties, such as monitoring telephones, scheduling appointments and greeting patients, the coordinator verifies insurance coverage, maintains patient records and, in certain environments, handles some billing responsibilities. This is an entry-level role.
Radiology coordinators support the radiology department of medical facilities.
Job Responsibilities
Coordinators answer the telephone.
A radiology coordinator serves as the face of the radiology department or center. She answers all telephone calls, schedules and confirms patient appointments and admits patients to the facility. To record all of a patient's information, the coordinator enters it into a computer system, notating all insurance information. Additionally, she may contact the insurance company to verify coverage. Once a patient's visit is complete, the radiology coordinator checks him out of the facility, updating his records and scheduling a follow-up appointment if necessary. In some environments, the coordinator is also responsible for preparing statements for billing and sending all documents to insurance companies and/or patients.
Job Opportunities
These jobs are often advertised in the newspaper.
The role of the radiology coordinator is entry-level. As a result, available job opportunities are often posted online on career boards as well as advertised in newspaper classifieds. Proprietary educational institutions that offer training in medical administration also usually possess a career services office that provides job placement assistance to graduating students.
Qualitative Requirements
Coordinators must understand medical terms.
To successfully perform the duties of a radiology coordinator, a candidate must be interpersonally skillful. This professional interacts with colleagues and patients throughout the workday and must do so in an affable yet professional manner. When dealing with billing and patient records, it is important that close attention to detail be paid. Applicants must also have a grasp of medical terminology. Additionally, technological adeptness and the ability to learn new things quickly are important.
Educational Requirements
Coordinators must be high school graduates.
A formal post-secondary education is not required for candidates who wish to become radiology coordinators. Employees do require, however, that applicants possess a high school diploma or its equivalent. The ideal candidate also has previous professional experience within a medical environment. Additionally, those seeking to enter this field may pursue specialized training as a medical administrative assistant at proprietary schools across the country.
Average Compensation and Employment Outlook
Coordinators earn more that $50K.
A visit to SimplyHired.com indicates that in 2009 the average radiology coordinator working in the United States makes a yearly salary of $51,000. Additionally, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates job growth of those in the health care field to increase by 22 percent through 2016, creating approximately 3 million new jobs.
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