The Health Access Coordinator manages patient referrals and care transitions by coordinating with clinical staff and external partners. They ensure accurate documentation in electronic medical records and facilitate patient access to necessary medical and social services.
Requirements overview
Candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent and possess strong communication and relationship-building skills. Proficiency with electronic health record systems and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are required.
St. Petersburg Free Clinic, Inc. is a multi-service, independent, not-for-profit human services agency. With compassion and respect, St. Pete Free Clinic changes lives by providing health care, nutritious food, recovery housing, and education for our neighbors in need throughout Pinellas County, Florida for over 50 years.
Founded in 1970, St. Petersburg Free Clinic began as a single walk-in medical facility that provided basic health care services to people without health insurance and without the means to provide adequate health care for themselves and their families. In subsequent years, as additional needs of the community have been identified, it has expanded its services, becoming a multi-service, multi-site agency to address the need for food, supportive housing and health care.
HealthcareCustomer Service & SupportAdministrativeSocial Services
Description
Description
The Health Access Coordinator (HAC) coordinates patient referrals and care transitions to ensure patients receive timely, appropriate services within and outside the SPFC Health Center. The HAC works closely with staff and volunteer providers, Resource Navigators, Welcome Service Coordinators, and external partner sites. The Health Access Coordinator ensures that patient access combines empathy, professionalism, and a patient-centered attitude.
Supervisory Responsibilities
None
Position Responsibilities
Collect patient referral needs from clinicians and/or care team.
Verify referral information (demographics, diagnosis/visit reason, urgency).
Prioritize referrals based on clinical urgency and access barriers.
Ensure referrals are routed to the correct specialty/service line.
Schedule and track referrals, follow-ups, and appointments from submission to completion for both internal referrals to SPFC specialists and lab and external referrals for labs, studies, imaging, and other medical follow-up provided by SPFC partners.
Ensure patients with needs for social and other non-medical services are referred to SPFC Navigator(s).
Educate patients on referral and next steps.
Maintain accurate, timely notes in the electronic medical records (EMR).
Communicate with staff and volunteer submission, facilities receiving referrals, and families as appropriate.
Track barriers, progress, and assigned metrics toward patient care goals.
Ensure appointment follow-through and support reducing no-shows.
Collaborate with Health Center staff and volunteer providers, Navigation Department, and other SPFC departments as appropriate to ensure patient needs are met.
All other duties assigned.
Agency-wide Responsibilities
Maintains documentation and records in compliance with policies and procedures.
Maintains confidentiality.
Supports the St. Petersburg Free Clinic’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Adheres to agency policies and procedures and all Federal and State regulations and local ordinances.
Requirements
Required Skills & Abilities
Strong relationship-building skills with both internal and external stakeholders.
Commitment to and modeling of St. Petersburg Free Clinic mission and values.
Ability to document accurately and consistently.
Proficiency with EHR systems and referral tracking tools.
Excellent phone/email communication skills; comfort with handling sensitive topics.
Ability to work in fast paced environment.
Bilingual skills are highly preferred.
Education & Experience:
High School Diploma or equivalent
Customer Service
Passionate for compassionate, patient-centered care
Willingness to learn and grow professionally
Physical Requirements
Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Prolonged period of sitting and or standing assisting the doctors.
Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds at times.
SPFC is a Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace.