Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

ALVARO CAMARENA

Antioch,CA

Summary

Focused and attentive Medical and Administrative Assistant with over 9 years of experience in fast-paced environments handling confidential paperwork, administering medication and providing quality patient care. Proven experience in diverse environments and able to establish positive rapport with patients, family, and staff. Experienced in private physician offices and large medical group setting. Strong leader and problem-solver dedicated to streamlining operations to decrease costs and promote organizational efficiency. Uses independent decision-making skills and sound judgment to positively impact company success.

Overview

11
11
years of professional experience

Work History

Medical Assistant

John Muir Physician Network –Cardiology
2020.11 - Current
  • Performs Medical Assistant, Prior Authorization Specialist, Registration Check in and Patient Call Representative daily task.
  • Follows established Back Office clinic protocols, EKGS and Heart Monitors.
  • Obtains high volume of prior authorization request for diagnostic services and procedures (Echo, Echo Stress, ZIO monitors, Nuclear Medicine exams, CTA’s, Left and Right Heart catheterization, Device implantable (ex; Pacemakers, Defibrillators, Loop Recorders) and other cardiac procedures to be done in hospital setting.
  • Schedules procedures for patients and provides necessary preparatory instructions before scheduled procedure/surgery.
  • Interfaced with medical and pharmaceutical vendors to gather and relay information to physicians to reduce none-value added time/work
  • Backup Manager, with proven ability to work alone, or with team.
  • Processing 91 and 31 day remote reports clinic billing for Pacemakers, defibrillator, and implantable loop recorders.
  • Facilitated communication between medical staff members to maintain cohesive team focused on providing exceptional patient care.
  • Implemented new processes for managing patient flow, minimizing wait times while maintaining high-quality care standards throughout practice.
  • Utilized data analysis techniques to identify areas for improvement within practice, implementing targeted changes to drive positive outcomes for both patients and staff members.
  • Identified opportunities to streamline processes and improve office operations and efficiency.

Medical Assistant/Referral and Authorization Coordinator/Call Center Representative/Front Desk Administration

John Muir Physician Network – JMH/UCSF Multi Specialty
2019.12 - 2020.11
  • Performs Medical Assistant, Prior Authorization Specialist, Registration Check in and Patient Call Representative daily task.
  • Managed Cardiology, Rheumatology, ENT, Pulmonology,
    Gastroenterology, Orthopedic Surgery, OBGYN, Urology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology and Optometry.

Maintains competency in obtaining and inputting medical information to and from clinical and /or other information systems including accessing information as required to complete referral process.

  • Prepares and provides multiple, complex details to insurance or worker's compensation carrier to obtain prior authorizations for both standard and complex requests such as imaging, non-invasive procedures, sleep studies etc.
  • Communicates medical information to insurance carrier, and coordinates peer-to-peer reviews for denied services.
  • Manages large amounts of inbound and outbound calls in timely manner.
  • Follows communication “scripts” when handling different topics.
  • Identifies patient’s needs, clarifies information, research every issue and provide solutions and/or alternatives.
  • Completed EKGs and other tests based on patient presentation in office.
  • Completely registers patient into EPIC/APEX charts by acquiring demographics, insurance information and registration documents
  • Explained procedures to patients to reduce anxieties and increase patient cooperation.
  • Oriented and trained new staff on proper procedures and policies.
  • Updated inventory, expiration and vaccine logs to maintain current tracking documentation.
  • Conducted monthly and quarterly inventory of supplies using facility cost reporting records.
  • Improved patient care by efficiently coordinating authorizations for medical procedures and treatment plans.
  • Streamlined authorization processes by implementing centralized tracking system for pending and approved requests.
  • Enhanced communication between healthcare providers and insurance companies, reducing delays in patient treatment approvals.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure timely submission of documentation required for insurance approval.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge of insurance policies, enabling accurate evaluation of coverage eligibility criteria for patients.
  • Conducted thorough reviews of medical records to identify and address potential issues affecting authorization approvals.
  • Decreased processing time for authorizations by establishing strong relationships with insurance representatives and case managers.
  • Developed comprehensive training materials for new Authorization Coordinators, contributing to their successful onboarding process.
  • Stayed informed about regulatory changes relevant to healthcare industry, ensuring compliance in all authorization activities.
  • Optimized workflows within department by identifying areas of improvement and proposing actionable solutions.
  • Assisted with financial counseling for uninsured or underinsured patients, connecting them with resources for affordable care options when necessary.
  • Coordinated seamless transitions of care for patients requiring referrals to specialty services, facilitating smooth handoffs between providers.
  • Participated in regular audits of authorization files, addressing discrepancies and implementing corrective actions as needed.
  • Contributed to development of departmental policies and procedures relating to authorization management, promoting standardization across teams.
  • Mastered multiple software systems for seamless navigation during calls, improving efficiency and reducing hold times for customers.
  • Developed rapport with customers through empathetic listening skills, creating positive experiences even during difficult conversations.
  • Mentored new hires as they navigated our systems and protocols, fostering teamwork within call center.
  • Sought out extra training opportunities to enhance customer relationship management abilities.
  • Cross-trained and backed up other customer service managers.
  • Increased efficiency and performance by monitoring team member productivity and providing feedback.
  • Trained staff on operating procedures and company services.
  • Cross-trained and provided backup support for organizational leadership.

Medical Assistant/Prior Authorization Specialist

John Muir Physician Network - Rheumatology
2016.05 - 2019.08
  • Performs Medical Assistant, Prior Authorization Specialist, Registration Check in and Patient Call Representative daily task.
  • Interfaced with medical and pharmaceutical vendors to gather and relay information to physicians to reduce none-value added time/work.
  • Creates schedules for department staff.
  • Liaised with patients and addressed inquiries, appointment requests and billing questions.
  • Collected pertinent data and calculations to aid physician in interpreting results.
  • Collaborated with medical and administrative personnel to maintain patient-focused, engaging and compassionate environment.
  • Assisted physicians with minor surgeries, including preparing operating room and sterilizing instruments.

Receptionist & Medical Assistant

Rheumatology Private Practice for Dr. Midori Nishio
2013.06 - 2016.05
  • Registers follow up appointments and confirms appointments for efficient office workflow.
  • Streamlined front desk operations for increased efficiency by effectively managing phone calls, emails, and walk-in clients.
  • Improved appointment scheduling system, reducing wait times and increasing client satisfaction.
  • Assisted in planning of office events and meetings, ensuring smooth execution and positive outcomes.
  • Contributed to team success by cross-training in various administrative roles, providing backup support when necessary.
  • Assists patients in obtaining medical records and completing necessary release forms.
  • Inputs internal/external referrals to increase patient volume to office.
  • Manages cash, check and credit/debit cards for deductible or copayments due.
  • Maintains accurate electronic and paper medical records for patient care, condition, progress and concerns.
  • Registers vital signs, such as blood pressure and pulse to help with consultation workflow.
  • Obtains patient's medical history, medication history, and procedure histories for efficient consultation.
  • Maintains clean and safe environment for patients.
  • Performs clerical duties, such as word processing, data entry, and answering high volume of calls.
  • Performs minor procedures and uses equipment as delegated by licensed professional.
  • Provides subcutaneous injection training to patients in order for them to administer self-injectable medications properly.
  • Collects Specimens from joint aspirations and prepares specimen to send out for cell count or culture.
  • Submits, track and obtain prior authorization for medications, IV medication, referrals and procedures ordered by physicians.
  • Complies with and adheres to all regulatory compliance areas, policies and procedures.
  • Protect patients’ personal information and abide by HIPAA regulations.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by promptly addressing inquiries and providing accurate information.

Education

BLS Certified -

American Heart Association
Online
01.2024

Completion of Medical Assistant Program -

Contra Costa Medical College
Antioch, CA
07.2014

Completion of Phlebotomy Technician Program -

Contra Costa Medical College
Antioch, CA
01.2013

High School Diploma -

Deer Valley High School
Antioch, CA
01.2008

Skills

  • Managing 800 calls monthly
  • QEI Certified for Spanish Interpreting
  • EPIC Certification in May 2016.
  • UCSF Apex (Electronic Medical Records) knowledgeable
  • Ability to multitask, manage details and organize efficiently and effectively.
  • Medical inventory management.
  • ADP/Payroll processing
  • Data Entry
  • Medical office administration
  • Medical Coding
  • Billing Procedures
  • Authorizations
  • Retro-Authorizations
  • Adaptability and Flexibility
  • Time management abilities
  • Clinical Leadership
  • Employee Performance Evaluations
  • Decision-Making
  • CPR/AED
  • Training and mentoring

Timeline

Medical Assistant

John Muir Physician Network –Cardiology
2020.11 - Current

Medical Assistant/Referral and Authorization Coordinator/Call Center Representative/Front Desk Administration

John Muir Physician Network – JMH/UCSF Multi Specialty
2019.12 - 2020.11

Medical Assistant/Prior Authorization Specialist

John Muir Physician Network - Rheumatology
2016.05 - 2019.08

Receptionist & Medical Assistant

Rheumatology Private Practice for Dr. Midori Nishio
2013.06 - 2016.05

BLS Certified -

American Heart Association

Completion of Medical Assistant Program -

Contra Costa Medical College

Completion of Phlebotomy Technician Program -

Contra Costa Medical College

High School Diploma -

Deer Valley High School
ALVARO CAMARENA