ER patient representatives assist patients during their time in the hospital.
ER patient representatives assist patients and their families with concerns, questions and special needs including finding interpreter services. They help to educate patients on their available options and are the gateway to further information beyond the representative's knowledge.
Job Description
ER patient representatives work with the health care administration to evaluate patient satisfaction within the emergency room of the hospital. They help patients and families with special needs such as finding a translator, referrals for additional care and specific questions about the hospital. They can also help set up meetings with doctors, staff and health care representatives. For example, if a patient wanted to transfer to a hospital closer to home, he should contact a patient representative to ensure both hospitals and the insurance provider approve the transfer and take all necessary steps to ensure a smooth transition.
Educational Requirements
There is no set educational requirement to become an ER patient representative. Some hospitals may only require a high school diploma, while others require a bachelor's degree in a health-related field and experience. It is best to check with the hospitals you are interested in working at to find out educational requirements. Some many be willing to substitute work experience for educational requirements.
Salary
Salaries for ER patient representatives vary widely depending on location and experience. Salary can range anywhere from $20,000 to over $60,000 annually. However, as of November 2010, the national average for a is $42, 561. For a location-specific number, visit the link in the Resource section and search by ZIP code.
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