Behavior Health Nurse
University Of Texas Health Center At Tyler
03.2022 - Current
Hi, I’m
Brittany Thatcher
Nurse
Tyler,TX
Summary
Dedicated and compassionate Licensed Vocational Nurse with a progressive career history in direct patient care, triage and care coordination in fast-paced environment. Proven to remain calm under pressure and skillfully handle difficult patients and high-stress situations. Analytical and strategic Clinic Nurse with excellent problem-solving and time management skills. Organized, efficient and always willing to go extra mile to meet expectations. Consistently developing strong relationships with patients and families through empathetic communication, respectful attitude and excellent customer service.
Work History
University Of Texas Health Center At Tyler, Tyler, TX
Behavior Health Nurse
03.2022 - Current
Job overview
- Promoted a safe and comfortable healing environment by addressing patient concerns promptly and professionally.
- Collected and inputted case data in managed care system and timely and accurately generated required correspondence and review notification for management.
- Maintained meticulous documentation of case management activities, facilitating accurate billing and compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Evaluated patients referred for case management to determine physical, mental, financial and psychosocial status by utilizing comprehensive, standardized criteria to identify existing and potential needs.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to optimize patient-centered interventions and ensure continuity of care.
- Facilitated timely referrals to appropriate specialists, expediting necessary treatments and improving overall health outcomes.
- Managed caseloads efficiently while prioritizing urgent cases requiring immediate intervention.
- Interfaced with third-party payers, insurance companies and providers for utilization review activities and submitted timely reports to clients and providers.
- Served as a liaison between patients, families, and healthcare providers to ensure a collaborative approach to managing chronic conditions.
- Assessed risk factors of patients and made referrals for further services.
- Screened medical records and information for necessity and appropriateness and referred for physician review cases not meeting medical criteria.
- Assisted patients in accessing housing, financial
- Helped patients navigate complex insurance processes, easing their financial burden while ensuring access to necessary treatments.
- Resolved problems, improved operations and provided exceptional service.
- Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
- Learned and adapted quickly to new technology and software applications.
- Used strong analytical and problem-solving skills to develop effective solutions for challenging situations.
- Educated patients, families and caregivers on diagnosis and prognosis, treatment options, disease process, and management and lifestyle options.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge on emerging trends in nursing practice to enhance effectiveness in delivering quality care.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Quickly responded to situations impacting safety and security to unit, actualizing crisis prevention interventions to control and de-escalate situations.
- Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Utilized strong clinical judgment in prioritizing patient needs during high-stress situations, ensuring optimal outcomes.
- Performed accurate documentation of patient assessments, interventions, and outcomes in compliance with regulatory standards.
- Delivered high level of quality care to diverse populations while overseeing patient admission and triaging based on acuity and appropriate department admission.
- Audited charts and reviewed clinical documents to verify accuracy.
- Facilitated therapeutic communication, conflict resolution and crisis intervention by redirecting negative behaviors and helping patients regain or improve coping abilities.
Special Health Resources, Tyler, TX
Infectious Disease Nurse
03.2021 - 03.2022
Job overview
- Promoted patient and family comfort during challenging recoveries to enhance healing and eliminate non-compliance problems.
- Optimized patient flow by efficiently triaging cases and prioritizing those requiring immediate attention from Infectious Disease specialists.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Explained course of care and medication side effects to patients and caregivers in easy-to-understand terms.
- Reduced infection rates by implementing strict hygiene protocols and monitoring adherence among staff.
- Continuously updated clinical knowledge on emerging infectious diseases, ensuring preparedness for new challenges in patient care.
- Learned and adapted quickly to new technology and software applications.
- Used strong analytical and problem-solving skills to develop effective solutions for challenging situations.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Served as a liaison between patients, families, and healthcare teams to facilitate open lines of communication and resolve any conflicts or misunderstandings.
- Provided emotional support to patients during difficult times, fostering trust and rapport while delivering compassionate nursing care.
- Managed complex caseloads efficiently while maintaining high-quality patient care standards.
- Developed strong relationships with local service providers to ensure seamless referrals for additional support services.
- Conducted ongoing assessments to identify evolving patient needs, adapting case management approaches accordingly.
- Gathered and recorded patient health information and data to assess, identify and manage characteristics that affect care outcome.
- Administered medications and injections to patients.
- Monitored patient health conditions to report changes to assigned physician.
- Assessed patients' temperature, pulse, and blood pressure and recorded in electronic medical records.
- Reviewed patient history to verify conditions and current medications.
- Worked with multidisciplinary team to carry out successful treatment plans for diverse acute and chronic conditions.
- Provided patient education on health care issues and prescribed medications.
- Provided diagnosis information, treatment possibilities, disease management tips and wound care advice to patients, loved ones and caregivers.
- Coordinated patient transfers to other facilities.
- Supported diagnoses by taking blood samples from patients for laboratory testing.
- Managed various general office duties such as answering multiple telephone lines, completing insurance forms, and mailing monthly invoice statements to patients.
- Provided exceptional customer service to both patients and healthcare professionals, addressing concerns related to the prior authorization process.
- Ensured accurate data entry into electronic health record systems, resulting in improved tracking of prior authorization statuses.
- Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Enhanced patient care by assessing insurance coverage and obtaining prior authorization for medical procedures.
- Educated patients on their insurance benefits, helping them understand their coverage and limitations regarding specific procedures or medications.
- Demonstrated commitment to professional development by participating in ongoing training opportunities related to the field of Prior Authorization nursing.
- Obtained authorizations from multiple insurance carriers for various levels of care.
Capstone Staffing Group, Tyler, TX
Licensed Practical Nurse
01.2014 - 12.2020
Job overview
- Coordinated patient transfers to other facilities.
- Managed various general office duties such as answering multiple telephone lines, completing insurance forms, and mailing monthly invoice statements to patients.
- Managed patient care through closely monitoring respiration, blood pressure, and blood glucose levels.
- Demonstrated excellent technical skills in wound dressing changes, IV therapy administration, catheter insertion, and other routine nursing procedures.
- Monitored patient health conditions to report changes to assigned physician.
- Educated patients and caregivers on medical diagnoses, treatment options, chronic disease self-management and wound management.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Provided compassionate palliative care for terminally ill patients while supporting their emotional needs during end-of-life stages.
- Assisted with admissions, appointments, transfers, and discharges.
- Answered incoming phone calls from patients to provide basic assistance and triage medical concerns.
- Used aseptic techniques to provide sterilized wound care and dressing applications.
- Documented accurate and complete patient information to address patient problems and expected outcomes.
- Helped long-term care residents with bathing, dressing, feeding, and other daily living activities.
- Assessed patients' temperature, pulse, and blood pressure and recorded in electronic medical records.
- Administered controlled narcotics, inserted IVs, and performed catheterizations.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
Fresenius Dialysis Center, Mineola, TX
Dialysis Licensed Practical Nurse
04.2019 - 06.2020
Job overview
- Provided patient education on health care issues and prescribed medications.
- Reduced time spent on documentation tasks by implementing an electronic health record system for tracking patient progress more efficiently.
- Ensured proper functioning of dialysis equipment through regular inspections, cleaning, and troubleshooting as needed, minimizing downtime and ensuring consistent delivery of treatment.
- Reviewed patient history to verify conditions and current medications.
- Monitored patient health conditions to report changes to assigned physician.
- Assessed patients' temperature, pulse, and blood pressure and recorded in electronic medical records.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Circulated assigned floor to measure and record patients' fluid and food levels, implementing measures to promote healthy intake and output as necessary.
- Provided assistance during emergency situations within the dialysis clinic, acting quickly and effectively to ensure patient safety.
- Facilitated smooth transitions between shifts with clear communication regarding changes in a patient''s condition or treatment plan during handoff reports.
- Administered medications and treatment to patients and monitored responses while working with healthcare teams to adjust care plans.
- Supported patients experiencing anxiety or fear related to their diagnosis or treatment, offering reassurance and fostering trust between the patient and healthcare team.
- Maintained current knowledge on industry advancements through ongoing professional development courses and seminars in nephrology nursing practice.
- Helped prevent complications with diligent assessment of patient pre-and post-dialysis, promptly reporting any changes or concerns to the supervising nurse or physician.
- Ensured compliance with federal and state regulations related to licensure, certification, and continuing education requirements for dialysis licensed practical nurses.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary healthcare teams to create individualized care plans tailored to each patient''s needs.
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
- Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
Epic Health Services, Tyler, TX
Pediatric Licensed Practical Nurse
08.2014 - 12.2018
Job overview
- Reduced hospital readmissions through proactive management of chronic conditions and timely interventions for acute health issues among pediatric patients.
- Mentored junior nurses entering the field of pediatric home health care by sharing knowledge about best practices related to assessment skills, effective communication strategies, and safe medication administration techniques.
- Served as a preceptor for new hires, guiding them through orientation processes while helping them acclimate into their roles as pediatric LPNs.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Administered medications and injections to patients.
- Prevented infection spread by ensuring strict adherence to hygiene standards during all aspects of nursing practice.
- Provided education on disease prevention, medical treatments, and medication administration to patients and their families.
- Demonstrated strong clinical judgment in assessing patient needs and implementing appropriate nursing interventions.
- Maintained accurate patient records, documenting assessments, interventions, and progress in a timely manner.
- Managed time efficiently in fast-paced settings while prioritizing tasks according to urgency levels.
- Monitored patient health conditions to report changes to assigned physician.
- Monitored ongoing metrics for children with chronic health conditions, both remotely, and within office settings.
- Participated in continuing education programs to remain up-to-date on best practices for pediatric nursing care.
- Monitored vital signs and reported abnormalities to supervising nurse or physician, promoting early intervention for potential health issues.
- Worked with multidisciplinary team to carry out successful treatment plans for diverse acute and chronic conditions.
Meadow Lake Senior Living, Tyler, TX
Admissions Coordinator
01.2018 - 12.2018
Job overview
- Equipped patients with tools and knowledge needed for speedy and sustained recovery.
- Fielded telephone inquiries on authorization details from plan members and medical staff.
- Reached out to insurance carriers to obtain prior authorization for testing and procedures.
- Developed and maintained productive working relationships with healthcare providers.
- Prepared and processed patient referrals and transfer requests.
- Tracked referral submission during facilitation of prior authorization issuance.
- Processed patients lacking coverage for planned procedures.
- Organized and maintained patient chart filing system to promote quick data finding for staff.
- Responded to inquiries from healthcare providers regarding prior authorization requests.
- Prepared and distributed denial letters, detailing reasons for denial and possible appeal measures.
- Managed office bookkeeping with insurance billing and patient payments.
- Mitigated risk of denied claims by conducting thorough research on individual policy guidelines before submitting requests.
- Performed various administrative tasks by filing, copying and faxing documents.
- Analyzed medical records and other documents to determine approval of requests for authorization.
- Provided empathetic support for patients navigating complex medical systems, offering guidance and assistance throughout the prior authorization process.
- Input all patient data regarding claims and prior authorizations into system accurately.
- Verified eligibility and compliance with authorization requirements for service providers.
- Scheduled patient appointments in respective doctors' calendars and followed up with reminder phone calls.
- Optimized turnaround times for prior authorization requests, collaborating closely with physicians and clinical staff to expedite necessary treatments.
- Maintained accurate case files, updating relevant information as needed to ensure efficient record-keeping practices.
- Completed administrative patient intakes with case histories, insurance information and mandated forms.
- Researched denied claims and contacted insurance companies to resolve these issues.
- Triaged unscheduled and emergency authorizations, directing submissions to appropriate personnel for rapid response.
- Demonstrated exceptional problem-solving skills, addressing challenges related to patient care coordination and insurance requirements with a solutions-oriented mindset.
- Ensured compliance with state and federal regulations through diligent monitoring of prior authorization processes.
- Exhibited strong attention to detail when evaluating eligibility criteria for medication coverage, minimizing instances of inappropriate denials or delays in treatment access.
- Effectively communicated with patients, families, and staff members to address concerns or questions related to the admissions process.
- Displayed functional familiarity with Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance coverage protocols.
- Conducted comprehensive reviews of medical records to identify potential admission criteria discrepancies or gaps in documentation that may impact reimbursement rates or regulatory compliance measures.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of federal regulations governing hospital admissions processes such as Medicare/Medicaid requirements.
- Monitored bed availability and coordinated placements accordingly, optimizing patient flow through the facility.
- Collaborated with insurance providers to verify coverage, obtain necessary authorizations, and facilitate payment arrangements as needed.
- Streamlined the admissions process for increased efficiency and reduced waiting times.
- Furnished patient treatment information to insurance companies in compliance with established parameters.
- Maintained a high level of confidentiality while handling sensitive patient information during the admissions process.
- Settled incoming patients into rooms and verified adequacy of medical supplies and treatment equipment.
- Initiated referrals for specialty consults, diagnostic testing, or therapeutic interventions as needed based on patient assessments and clinical judgment.
- Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
- Gained extensive knowledge in data entry, analysis and reporting.
- Completed paperwork, recognizing discrepancies and promptly addressing for resolution.
Education
University of Texas At Tyler , Tyler, TX
No Degree from Nursing
01.2015 - Current
Tyler Junior College , Tyler, TX
Vocational Nursing Certification from Nursing
01.2011 - 08.2013
University Overview
- Awarded Outstanding Student Vocational Nurse
Skills
- Patient Education
- Insurance Verification
- Medicare and Medicaid knowledge
- Epic Systems
- Patient Referrals
- Insurance Authorizations
- EHR Software
- Documentation Review
- Regulatory Documentation
- Understanding of insurance details
- Performance metrics analysis
Accomplishments
- Outstanding Student Vocational Nurse award 2013
- 2 Daisy Award Nominations for outstanding patient care
- Successfully collaborated with team of 5 individuals in the development and implementation of the an urgent incoming outpatient pediatric mental health referral and triage system.
Affiliations
- American Psychiatric Nurses Association
- Black Nurse Association
Certification
- Licensed Vocational Nurse - Compact 315921
- AHA BLS Certified 2023-2025
- IV Certification 2017
Additional Information
I am excited to find a company that allows me to work remotely assisting patients with Case Management, Utilization Review, and Prior Authorizations, for medications, medical procedures, and rehabilitation. Over the year I have become adept navigating insurances and learning to utilize all benefits they offer their members, as well as compile and assist patients with community resources that help eliminate non medical barriers to treatment compliance. Examples would include medication co-pay assistance programs, housing, food, clothing, transportation and most importantly access to mental health services in their community.
Timeline
Infectious Disease Nurse
Special Health Resources
03.2021 - 03.2022
Dialysis Licensed Practical Nurse
Fresenius Dialysis Center
04.2019 - 06.2020
Admissions Coordinator
Meadow Lake Senior Living
01.2018 - 12.2018
University of Texas At Tyler
No Degree from Nursing
01.2015 - Current
Pediatric Licensed Practical Nurse
Epic Health Services
08.2014 - 12.2018
Licensed Practical Nurse
Capstone Staffing Group
01.2014 - 12.2020
Tyler Junior College
Vocational Nursing Certification from Nursing
01.2011 - 08.2013
- Licensed Vocational Nurse - Compact 315921
- AHA BLS Certified 2023-2025
- IV Certification 2017
Availability
See my work availability
Not Available
Available
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
swipe to browse
Work Preference
Work Type
Full TimePart TimeContract WorkWork Location
RemoteImportant To Me
Flexible work hoursWork from home optionWork-life balanceCareer advancementCompany CultureSimilar Profiles
LaToshia WilliamsLaToshia Williams
Registered Nurse at UT Health East TexasRegistered Nurse at UT Health East Texas
Emily Roch, LMSWEmily Roch, LMSW
Case Manager/Social Worker at The University of Texas Health Science Center at TylerCase Manager/Social Worker at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler
Sandy MonsivaisSandy Monsivais
Community Health Worker at University Of Texas Health Science Center At TylerCommunity Health Worker at University Of Texas Health Science Center At Tyler