Sarah Kuntz
Alden
Summary
Results-driven Prior Authorization Team Lead with expertise in payer compliance, workflow optimization, and revenue cycle management. Skilled in streamlining authorization processes to enhance patient access and expedite approvals. Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, implement strategic SOPs, and drive efficiency while minimizing denials. Adept at collaborating with healthcare providers and insurance companies to optimize reimbursements and ensure seamless compliance with payer regulations.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Prior Authorization and Medical Records Team Lead
University at Buffalo Surgeons Inc
06.2021 - Current
- Managed an industry-leading volume of 485 prior authorizations per month, consistently exceeding benchmarks for efficiency and approval turnaround times.
- Eliminated prior authorization denials by 100% through strategic SOP implementation and workflow optimization, ensuring compliance and reducing delays.
- Optimized workflows and payer collaboration to reduced authorization processing time by 75%, ensuring faster patient access to care.
- Designed and implemented medical records infrastructure, enhancing audit readiness and improving payer compliance verification processes.
- Increased team efficiency by introducing streamlined workflows and cross-training initiatives.
- Collaborate with Physicians, Surgical staff and payers to expedite approvals and minimize delays in patient care.
- Enhanced departmental productivity by developing training protocols that improved authorization processing speed and accuracy.
- Promoted a positive work environment by fostering teamwork, open communication, and employee recognition initiatives.
- Collaborated with other department leads to streamline workflows, improve interdepartmental coordination, and achieve collective revenue goals.
Prior Authorization Specialist
Eye-care Professionals Of WNY
09.2015 - 06.2021
- Improved patient financial literacy by simplifying insurance benefit explanations, reducing billing inquiries by 15%.
- Communicated with insurance companies to determine coverage and benefit eligibility.
- Served as the first point of contact for patients assisting with check-ins, insurance processing, and financial transactions.
Adninistrative Assistant
Dr. Chouchani, Sayegh and Bagnarello OBGYN
01.2011 - 12.2014
- Provided prior authorization support in compliance with payer guidelines.
- Assisted patients with understanding their insurance benefits and financial responsibilities.
- Managed multi-line phone systems, directing calls and assisting patients.
- Collected copays, processed transactions, and maintained accurate records.
Education
High School Diploma -
Fair Lawn Highschool
Fair Lawn, NJ06.2002
Skills
- CPT Coding & ICD-10 Guidelines
- HIPAA Compliance & Insurance Policies
- EMR Super User Allscripts, Medent, Epic, Cerner
- Microsoft Office
Timeline
Prior Authorization and Medical Records Team Lead
University at Buffalo Surgeons Inc
06.2021 - Current
Prior Authorization Specialist
Eye-care Professionals Of WNY
09.2015 - 06.2021
Adninistrative Assistant
Dr. Chouchani, Sayegh and Bagnarello OBGYN
01.2011 - 12.2014
High School Diploma -
Fair Lawn Highschool
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