Surgery Scheuling & Authorization Specialist

Full-time | Onsite | Gold Beach, OR

Compensation Range: $22.46 - $33.97

• Compensation is based on experience, with a range reflecting entry-level candidates through those with 15+ years of experience. Eligible positions may also qualify for additional compensation with applicable shift, weekend, certification, or other differentials.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS 

Education & Experience 

• High school diploma or equivalent.  
• One year of experience in a medical office of healthcare setting preferred. 
• Knowledge of medical terminology and insurance authorization processes preferred.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Proficiency in computer applications, including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook); preferred familiarity with electronic health records.  
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and listening skills. 
• Strong organizational, prioritization, multitasking, and time-management skills. 
• Understanding of hospital department workflows.

Additional Compensation Differential Opportunities:   

• Licensed Positions: NOC Shift (7:00 PM–7:00 AM): +$3.50/hour. | Weekend Shift (12:00 AM Saturday–11:59 PM Sunday): +$3.00/hour.
• Non-Licensed Positions: NOC Shift (7:00 PM–7:00 AM): +$3.00/hour. | Weekend Shift (12:00 AM Saturday–11:59 PM Sunday): +$2.00/hour.

JOB SUMMARY

Under the general supervision of the Director of Surgical Services, the Surgery Scheduling & Authorization Specialist coordinates surgical scheduling, insurance authorizations, and preoperative clearances. This position collaborates with providers, patients, and perioperative staff to support efficient scheduling and ensure required documentation is completed prior to surgery.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Coordinates surgical case scheduling in accordance with hospital policies, operating room block schedules, and departmental resources to support efficient utilization of surgical services, including timely release of unused block time.

Collaborates with surgeons, provider offices, and perioperative staff to maintain accurate surgical schedules, review upcoming procedures (including next-day, three-day, and seven-day schedules), and communicate scheduling changes or limitations.

Works with the charge nurse and perioperative team to identify resource needs and resolve issues that may affect procedure preparation or timing. Reviews tentative schedules at least 72 hours prior to procedures.

Obtains and verifies required insurance authorizations before scheduled procedures. Collaborates with billing and appropriate departments to address denials, appeals, and necessary corrections.

Coordinates and tracks required preoperative medical and cardiac clearances, including transmitting requests and supporting clinical documentation, following up with external providers, and ensuring completed clearances are received and appropriately documented in the electronic health record before surgery.

Maintains timely communication with providers, perioperative staff, and management regarding scheduling changes, cancellations, outstanding documentation, and other issues affecting surgical procedures. Refers patients to financial counseling services when appropriate.

Ensures scheduling and authorization documentation meets applicable organizational standards and guidelines.

Performs other duties as assigned to support departmental operations and Curry Health Network’s Mission, Vision, and Shared Values.

SHARED VALUES

Service:           We serve with compassion and understanding.

Teamwork:     We are one team – each one of us makes a difference.

Curiosity:        We promote learning.

Integrity:         We live by honesty, trust, and doing the right thing by our organizational values.

What We Offer:   

• Enhanced parental leave: 12 weeks of Oregon Paid Leave (if applicable) followed by 6 additional weeks of CHN-paid parental leave
• 75% discount on CHN patient responsibility costs for employees and eligible dependents
• Choice of two medical plans, including an HSA with employer contributions of up to $1,920 annually
• 403(b) with employer match and 457(b) retirement plans with Pre-Tax and Roth options
• 100% employer-paid medical flight membership for employees and household members
• Employer-paid life insurance equal to one year's annual salary for eligible full-time and part-time employees
• Optional dental and vision insurance
• FSA and Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP)
• Tuition assistance and certification achievement incentives
• Employee recognition programs and career growth opportunities

Join a team that invests in your health, your family, and your future.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Physical Demands

On-the-job time is spent in the following physical activities:

• None of the time: Taste or Smell
• Up to 1/3 of the time: Stand; Reach with hands and arms
• From 1/3 to 1/2 of the time: Walk and Reach with Hands & Arms
• Up 2/3 of the time and more: Sit; Talk or hear; Use hands to finger, handle or feel

This job requires that weight be lifted, or force be exerted as follows:

• None of the time: up to or more than 100 pounds
• Up to 1/3 of the time: up to 50 pounds
• From 1/3 to 1/2 of the time: no requirement
• Up to 2/3 of the time and more: no requirement

This job has special vision requirements as follows:

Close, distance, color, peripheral, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

This job requires exposure to the following environmental conditions:

• None of the time: Extreme heat/cold; Wet/humid; fumes/airborne particles; work with explosives; vibration; outdoor weather; Working near moving mechanical parts; Toxic or caustic chemicals; Risk of electrical shock

The typical noise level for the work environment is: very quiet to moderate noise.

Hearing requirements: ability to hear alarms on equipment and verbal instructions.

Vision requirements: close, distance, color, peripheral vision; ability to adjust focus.

This job requires the following repetitive motion actions:

• From 1 – 2 hours per day: foot control
• From 3 – 4 hours per day: fine dexterity
• From 5 – 6 hours per day: repetitive use of hands; grasping: simple/light

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required. Duties and responsibilities may be modified at any time to meet the needs of the organization.