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Initial Clinical Reviewer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Maintains current knowledge base related to review processes and clinical practices related to the review processes, functions as the initial resource to nurse reviewers regarding all review process ...

Maintains current knowledge base related to review processes and clinical practices related to the review processes, functions as the initial resource to nurse reviewers regarding all review process ...

Maintains current knowledge base related to review processes and clinical practices related to the review processes, functions as the initial resource to nurse reviewers regarding all review process ...

Supervise initial clinical reviews and provide documented recommendations based on appropriate clinical guidelines * Review and approve initial evaluations and clinical documentation against clinical ...

Supervise initial clinical reviews and provide documented recommendations based on appropriate clinical guidelines * Review and approve initial evaluations and clinical documentation against clinical ...

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Conducts initial medical necessity clinical screening and determines if initial clinical information presented meets medical necessity criteria or requires additional medical necessity review.

Conducts initial medical necessity clinical screening and determines if initial clinical information presented meets medical necessity criteria or requires additional medical necessity review.

Conducts initial medical necessity clinical screening and determines if initial clinical information presented meets medical necessity criteria or requires additional medical necessity review.

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Initial Clinical Reviewer information

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$46

How much do initial clinical reviewer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for initial clinical reviewer in the United States is $35.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.25 and $40.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some challenges initial clinical reviewers commonly face when assessing medical claims, and how can they effectively manage these challenges?

Initial Clinical Reviewers often encounter challenges such as interpreting incomplete documentation, staying current with evolving clinical guidelines, and balancing efficiency with accuracy under tight deadlines. To manage these challenges, reviewers typically rely on strong critical thinking skills, ongoing training, and collaboration with colleagues or senior clinicians for complex cases. Effective time management and clear communication with providers or other team members also help ensure thorough and timely reviews.

What is the difference between Initial Clinical Reviewer vs Claims Reviewer?

AspectInitial Clinical ReviewerClaims Reviewer
Required CredentialsHealthcare license, clinical experience, certifications (e.g., RN, LPN)Insurance knowledge, certification in claims processing (e.g., CPC)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, healthcare organizationsInsurance companies, third-party administrators
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare providers, managed careInsurance carriers, claims processing firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding clinical review roles in healthcareUnderstanding claims processing and review roles

The main difference is that Initial Clinical Reviewers focus on evaluating patient care and medical necessity based on clinical standards, while Claims Reviewers primarily assess insurance claims for accuracy and compliance. Both roles require industry-specific certifications and work within healthcare or insurance environments, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an initial clinical reviewer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Initial Clinical Reviewer, you need in-depth clinical knowledge, attention to detail, and a degree in nursing or a related healthcare field, often accompanied by an active RN or similar licensure. Familiarity with utilization management software, electronic health records (EHR), and knowledge of regulatory standards such as CMS and NCQA are typically required. Strong analytical skills, critical thinking, and effective communication help professionals excel in this role. These competencies are crucial to accurately assess medical necessity, ensure compliance, and facilitate quality healthcare decisions.

What is an initial clinical reviewer?

An Initial Clinical Reviewer is a healthcare professional who evaluates medical records, treatment requests, and clinical documentation to determine if services are medically necessary and meet established guidelines. They often work for insurance companies, healthcare organizations, or third-party administrators, reviewing cases before approval or further review. Their assessments help ensure that patients receive appropriate care while controlling healthcare costs and maintaining compliance with regulations.
More about Initial Clinical Reviewer jobs

What states have the most Initial Clinical Reviewer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Initial Clinical Reviewer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Initial Clinical Reviewer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,707 per year, or $35.9 per hour.

Clinical Reviewer (SCA-Remote)

Acentra Health

Mclean, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Acentra Health rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

182nd of 223 rated it services


Job description

Company Overview

Acentra Health exists to empower better health outcomes through technology, services, and clinical expertise. Our mission is to innovate health solutions that deliver maximum value and impact.

Lead the Way is our rallying cry at Acentra Health. Think of it as an open invitation to embrace the mission of the company; to actively engage in problem-solving; and to take ownership of your work every day. Acentra Health offers you unparalleled opportunities. In fact, you have all you need to take charge of your career and accelerate better outcomes - making this a great time to join our team of passionate individuals dedicated to being a vital partner for health solutions in the public sector.

Job Summary and Responsibilities

Acentra seeks a Clinical Reviewer to join our growing team.

Job Summary:

The Clinical Reviewer utilizes clinical expertise during beneficiary interaction in conjunction with contract requirements, critical thinking and utilize decision-making skills to assist with communicating medical appropriateness, while maintaining production goals and QA standards. Ensures day-to-day processes are conducted in accordance with NCQA and other regulatory standards.

*Shift Information: This position requires availability to work between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, and 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET on weekends and holidays.*

Job Responsibilities:

  • Assures accuracy and timeliness of all applicable review type cases within contract requirements
  • Assesses, evaluates, and addresses daily workload and call queues; adjusts work schedules daily to meet the workload demands of the department
  • In collaboration with Supervisor, responsible for the quality monitoring activities including identifying areas of improvement and plan implementation of improvement areas
  • Maintains current knowledge base related to review processes and clinical practices related to the review processes, functions as the initial resource to nurse reviewers regarding all review process questions and/or concerns
  • Functions as providers' liaison and contact/resource person for provider customer service issues and problem resolution
  • Performs all applicable review types as workload indicates
  • Fosters positive and professional relationships and act as liaison with internal and external customers to ensure effective working relationships and team building to facilitate the review process
  • Attends training and scheduled meetings and for maintenance and use of current/updated information for review
  • Cross trains and perform duties of other contracts to provide a flexible workforce to meet client/customer needs
  • Read, understand, and adhere to all corporate policies including policies related to HIPAA and its Privacy and Security Rules

The list of accountabilities is not intended to be all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other education- and experience-related duties that management may deem necessary from time to time.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

  • Active, unrestricted LPN or RN license in the applicable state and/or a Compact State license.
  • Knowledge of the organization of medical records, medical terminology, and disease process required
  • Strong clinical assessment and critical thinking skills required
  • Medical record abstracting skills required
  • 2+ years of clinical experience in a hospital or post-acute environment required.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Minimum of one year UR and/or Prior Authorization or related experience.
  • Requires excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Office and internet/web navigation
  • Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in a related field
  • Some knowledge of Case Management, UR and/or Prior Authorization or related experience is preferred
  • Experience in call center environment a plus
  • Experience in a behavioral health setting a plus
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus

Why us?

We are a team of experienced and caring leaders, clinicians, pioneering technologists, and industry professionals who come together to redefine expectations for the healthcare industry. State and federal healthcare agencies, providers, and employers turn to us as their vital partner to ensure better healthcare and improve health outcomes.

We do this through our people.

You will have meaningful work that genuinely improves people's lives nationwide. Our company cares about our employees, giving you the tools and encouragement, you need to achieve the finest work of your career.

Thank You!

We know your time is valuable, and we thank you for applying for this position. Due to the high volume of applicants, only those who are chosen to advance in our interview process will be contacted. We sincerely appreciate your interest in Acentra Health and invite you to apply to future openings that may interest you. Best of luck in your search!

~ The Acentra Health Talent Acquisition Team

Visit us at https://careers.acentra.com/jobs

EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability

Acentra Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by applicable Federal, State, or Local law.

Benefits

Benefits are a key component of your rewards package. Our benefits are designed to provide additional protection, security, and support for your career and life away from work. Our benefits include comprehensive health plans, paid time off, retirement savings, corporate wellness, educational assistance, corporate discounts, and more.

Compensation

The pay range for this position is below:

"Based on our compensation philosophy, an applicant's placement in the pay range will depend on various considerations, such as years of applicable experience and skill level."

Pay Range
USD $28.37 - USD $35.00 /Hr.

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