Kara Whitman
Erie,PA
Summary
Professional with strong background in healthcare coordination, adept at managing complex scheduling tasks to ensure optimal patient care. Skilled in utilizing medical software, handling sensitive patient information, and coordinating with medical teams to streamline operations. Known for reliability, flexibility, and collaborative approach, consistently meeting evolving demands and achieving desired outcomes efficiently.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
Work History
Surgical Scheduler Coordinator
Allegheny Health Network- St. Vincent
Erie, PA
12.2023 - Current
- Coordinated surgical scheduling to optimize operating room utilization and enhance patient flow.
- Managed communication between surgeons, patients, and nursing staff to ensure seamless coordination of procedures.
- Implemented electronic scheduling system, improving accuracy and reducing appointment conflicts.
- Resolved scheduling conflicts efficiently, ensuring timely patient care and adherence to surgical timelines.
- Provided exceptional customer service to patients, addressing their concerns promptly while maintaining professionalism at all times.
- Trained new staff on scheduling protocols and software, fostering a collaborative team environment.
- Demonstrated adaptability by managing unexpected schedule changes or emergencies, ensuring minimal disruption to other scheduled surgeries.
- Collaborated with insurance providers to obtain necessary authorizations for scheduled surgeries, minimizing delays or cancellations due to coverage issues.
Clinical Manager/Patient Care Specialist
Compassionate Certification Centers
Erie, PA
09.2020 - 08.2023
- Managed patient care processes, optimizing workflow efficiency and reducing wait times.
- Provided compassionate support to patients, addressing inquiries and concerns effectively and empathetically.
- Ensured compliance with HIPAA regulations by safeguarding confidential patient information at all times.
- Handled job duties for staff members which were unavailable or out of office.
- Monitored all phone calls and scheduled appointments.
- Optimized inventory management systems to ensure availability of critical supplies.
- Led transition to telehealth services, ensuring uninterrupted patient care during challenging times.
- Facilitated patient intake processes, ensuring accurate data collection and compliance with health regulations.
Corporate Medical Records Coordinator
Life NWPA
Erie, PA
12.2017 - 12.2019
- Managed patient health records ensuring compliance with regulations and standards.
- Collaborated with healthcare teams to streamline documentation processes and enhance data accuracy.
- Trained staff on medical records management practices, enhancing team performance and knowledge retention.
- Conducted regular audits of medical records to ensure completeness and accuracy in patient information.
- Maintained accuracy, completeness, and security for medical records and health information.
- Scanned and uploaded medical records into electronic medical records system.
Rehabilitation Coordinator
Stairways Behavioral Health
Erie, PA
03.1998 - 08.2011
- Developed and implemented personalized rehabilitation plans for diverse client needs.
- Collaborated with external agencies to ensure comprehensive support services for clients transitioning from rehabilitation.
- Executed and complied with policies regarding patient admission, care and records to maintain standards of excellence for patients and families.
- Led interdisciplinary team meetings to review patient progress, discuss challenges, and strategize on best approaches for successful outcomes.
- Fostered strong relationships with patients, families, and community resources to promote holistic recovery approaches.
- Conducted assessments to identify barriers to rehabilitation, implementing solutions for continuous improvement.
Education
Master Of Arts - Clinical Psychology
Edinboro University
Erie, PADiploma - Billing And Coding/Health Information Technology
Institute Of Medical And Business Careers
Erie, PABachelor Of Arts - Criminal Justice
Mercyhurst University
Erie, PASkills
- HIPAA compliance
- Office workflow support
- Verbal and written communication
- Insurance authorizations
- Strong organization
- Office administration
- Patient scheduling
- Insurance verification
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Data entry proficiency
- Schedule coordination
- EHR systems expertise
- Scheduling tests and procedures
- Medical terminology
- Analytical thinking
Timeline
Surgical Scheduler Coordinator
Allegheny Health Network- St. Vincent
12.2023 - Current
Clinical Manager/Patient Care Specialist
Compassionate Certification Centers
09.2020 - 08.2023
Corporate Medical Records Coordinator
Life NWPA
12.2017 - 12.2019
Rehabilitation Coordinator
Stairways Behavioral Health
03.1998 - 08.2011
Master Of Arts - Clinical Psychology
Edinboro University
Diploma - Billing And Coding/Health Information Technology
Institute Of Medical And Business Careers
Bachelor Of Arts - Criminal Justice
Mercyhurst University