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Patient Advocacy Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Patient Advocate

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Help improve patient retention and overall healthcare access within your assigned communities What We're Looking For * 1-2 years of experience in community outreach, patient advocacy, healthcare, ...

Patient Advocate

Riverdale, GA · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

May participate in new hire orientation on educating staff on patient safety and advocacy * Identify critical needs with regard to customer service and discuss with supervisor and medical staff.

Patient Advocate

Riverdale, GA · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

May participate in new hire orientation on educating staff on patient safety and advocacy * Identify critical needs with regard to customer service and discuss with supervisor and medical staff.

Patient Advocate

Riverdale, GA · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

May participate in new hire orientation on educating staff on patient safety and advocacy * Identify critical needs with regard to customer service and discuss with supervisor and medical staff.

Patient Educator

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$185K - $190K/yr

Partner with Patient Advocacy and attend patient education symposia as needed. * Partner with Patient Safety and Pharmacovigilance (PV) and Complaint Management Quality Systems and Compliance ...

Serve as a patient advocate, ensuring individual preferences are respected in the care process. * Facilitate clear communication between patients, families, and the healthcare team. 6. Quality ...

... patient advocacy, performance improvement, and leadership & professional development. QUALIFICATIONS * Bachelor's degree required * Master's degree in related field preferred * 5 Years of progressive ...

... patient advocacy, performance improvement, and leadership & professional development. QUALIFICATIONS * Bachelor's degree required * Master's degree in related field preferred * 5 Years of progressive ...

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Patient Advocacy information

See Decatur, GA salary details

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How much do patient advocacy jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient advocacy in Decatur, GA is $20.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $21.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do you need to be a patient advocate?

To become a patient advocate, relevant qualifications often include a background in healthcare, social work, or related fields, along with strong communication and advocacy skills. Certification programs in patient advocacy or healthcare navigation can enhance job prospects, and experience working with healthcare systems is beneficial.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in patient advocacy roles, and how can they be effectively managed?

Patient advocacy professionals often navigate complex healthcare systems while supporting patients with diverse needs, which can be challenging when balancing administrative tasks, emotional support, and communication with medical staff. Managing these challenges typically involves strong organizational skills, empathy, and the ability to build collaborative relationships with healthcare teams. Additionally, staying informed about healthcare regulations and patient rights helps advocates provide accurate guidance. Seeking mentorship and ongoing professional development can also help advocates manage stress and increase their impact.

How does a patient advocate get paid?

Patient advocates are typically paid through salaries, hourly wages, or fees for specific services, often by healthcare organizations, insurance companies, or directly by patients. Compensation can vary based on experience, certifications, and whether they work independently or as part of a team. Some advocates may also earn commissions or bonuses for meeting certain goals or outcomes.

How much do patient advocates make in the US?

Patient advocates in the US typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, with experienced professionals or those working in specialized settings earning higher salaries. Compensation can vary based on education, certifications, location, and years of experience.

What is the difference between Patient Advocacy vs Patient Coordinator?

AspectPatient AdvocacyPatient Coordinator
Required CredentialsVaries; often healthcare or social work background, certifications like Certified Patient Advocate (CPA)Typically healthcare administration or related background, certifications vary
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, insurance companies, nonprofit organizationsHospitals, clinics, outpatient centers
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare providers, advocacy groups, insurance companiesHealthcare facilities, outpatient services
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in patient support and rightsCoordinating patient appointments and care logistics

Patient Advocacy focuses on supporting patients' rights, navigating healthcare systems, and ensuring quality care, often requiring advocacy-specific certifications. Patient Coordinators manage scheduling, patient flow, and administrative tasks within healthcare settings. While both roles serve patients, advocacy emphasizes support and rights, whereas coordinators focus on operational logistics.

What exactly does a patient advocate do?

A patient advocate helps patients understand their medical options, navigate healthcare systems, and communicate with providers. They often assist with insurance issues, coordinate care, and ensure patients' rights are protected, requiring strong communication and knowledge of healthcare policies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Patient Advocate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Patient Advocate, you need a solid understanding of healthcare systems, patient rights, and medical terminology, often supported by a degree in health sciences or a related field. Familiarity with case management software, HIPAA regulations, and, in some cases, certification such as BCPA (Board Certified Patient Advocate) is beneficial. Excellent communication, empathy, and problem-solving skills are essential for effectively supporting patients and navigating complex situations. These skills enable advocates to ensure patients receive appropriate care, understand their options, and have their voices heard within the healthcare system.

What is patient advocacy?

Patient advocacy is a field dedicated to supporting and guiding patients through the healthcare system. Patient advocates help individuals understand their rights, communicate with healthcare providers, navigate insurance and billing issues, and access needed resources and services. They ensure that a patient's voice is heard and that their best interests are represented in medical decision-making. Patient advocates can work independently or for hospitals, nonprofits, or insurance companies, and their goal is to improve the healthcare experience for patients and their families.
What are popular job titles related to Patient Advocacy jobs in Decatur, GA? For Patient Advocacy jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Patient Advocacy jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Patient Advocacy jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Patient Advocacy jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Patient Advocacy job openings:
Infographic showing various Patient Advocacy job openings in Decatur, GA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,980 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Patient Advocate Specialist - Emory University Hospitals

Patient Funding Alternatives

Atlanta, GA

$17 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Company Description

About Patient Funding Alternatives (PFA)
At Patient Funding Alternatives (PFA), we remove the barriers that keep Medicaid-eligible and medically underserved individuals from getting the care they deserve. We partner with hospitals and health systems across the country to help patients secure coverage through employer-sponsored insurance — simplifying the process, protecting patients, and strengthening hospital outcomes.

As the only organization in the U.S. offering a full Premium Assistance Enrollment service supported by dedicated Patient Advocates within partner hospitals, we make access to coverage easier, faster, and more compassionate.

PFA is growing rapidly nationwide, and our success is built on people who care deeply about helping others. We believe our employees are our most valuable resource, and we’re committed to maintaining a healthy work/life balance within a culture grounded in empathy, teamwork, and respect.

If you’re passionate about guiding patients through complex healthcare systems, advocating for fairness, and making a measurable impact every day — PFA is where you belong.

Job Description

The Patient Advocate Specialist plays a critical role in identifying, educating, and enrolling eligible hospital patients into the Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP) Program. This is a full-time, 4-day-per-week on-site role based at Emory Hospitals in the Atlanta area (Emory University Hospital, Emory University Hospital Midtown, Emory Decatur Hospital), where you’ll work directly with patients and hospital partners. You'll clearly explain program details, gather required documentation, and serve as a compassionate, professional advocate throughout each step of the enrollment process. 

This role demands mission-driven advocacy, proactive problem-solving, empathetic communication, and resilience—all while balancing compassion with an urgency to ensure patients receive timely support. By facilitating employer-sponsored health insurance coverage, the Patient Helper Program helps medically complex Medicaid beneficiaries access comprehensive care. 

We’re looking for driven individuals with a “can-do” spirit, unwavering perseverance, and the capacity to support diverse patient populations navigating complex healthcare systems. 

Key Responsibilities 

Patient Engagement & Advocacy 

  • Educate patients and families in a clear, compassionate, and culturally sensitive manner about the HIPP program. 
  • Assess family dynamics and adapt communication style to effectively meet their needs. 
  • Obtain necessary authorizations and documentation from patients/families. 
  • Foster trust with patients while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries. 
  • Demonstrate cultural competence and empathy when engaging with vulnerable populations. 

HIPP Enrollment & Case Management 

  • Accurately collect all essential data for HIPP applications (e.g., employer information, insurance details). 
  • Employ proactive problem-solving to overcome barriers and ensure timely, accurate submissions. 
  • Collaborate seamlessly with the Patient Financial Assistance (PFA) team to finalize enrollments. 
  • Consistently deliver against performance metrics such as enrollments completed, case resolution time, and documentation accuracy. 

Program Maintenance & Benefit Coordination 

  • Clarify how employer-provided health insurance works in coordination with Medicaid. 
  • Verify and update ongoing patient eligibility for HIPP to maintain continuity. 
  • Assist with resolving insurance-related issues upon request from patients or clients. 

Technology & Documentation 

  • Utilize PFA’s CRM/case management system to manage referrals and patient records. 
  • Upload, scan, and securely transmit required documentation. 
  • Record patient interactions meticulously in compliance with privacy and legal standards. 
  • Efficiently operate Apple tools such as iPads and iPhones for enrollment-related tasks. 

Client & Hospital Relationship Management 

  • Represent PFA as the onsite contact at the hospital. 
  • Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with hospital staff, state agency personnel, and community partners. 
  • Always uphold the organization’s values with ethical integrity and professionalism. 
Qualifications

Required Qualifications 

  • High school diploma or GED and completion of formal training in customer service, patient services, healthcare administration, social services, or case management. 
  • Foundational knowledge of healthcare terminology and insurance processes gained via coursework or certification. 
  • Ability to pass hospital credentialing, including vaccinations and drug/alcohol screening. 

Preferred Qualifications 

  • Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Healthcare Administration, Public Health, or related field. 
  • Training in motivational interviewing, trauma-informed care, or medical billing/coding. 
  • Continuing education in Medicaid/Medicare eligibility, health equity, or patient advocacy. 
  • Three-Five years’ experience in patient-facing roles within a healthcare setting. 
  • Full Bilingual proficiency in Spanish is strongly preferred. 

Core Skills & Competencies 

Technical Skills-Preferred 

  • Proficiency with CRM or case management systems. 
  • Knowledge of Medicaid/Medicare eligibility and benefits coordination. 
  • Ability to interpret medical billing and insurance documents. 
  • Strong compliance-based documentation practices. 

Interpersonal Skills 

  • Active listening and empathetic communication. 
  • De-escalation tactics for emotionally distressed patients. 
  • Cultural awareness and sensitivity in communication. 
  • Collaboration with cross-functional teams, including hospital and internal staff. 

Key Traits for Success 

  • Mission-Driven Advocacy – Consistently puts patient needs first. 
  • Ego Resilience – Thrives amid adversity and changing demands. 
  • Empathy – Provides compassionate support while ensuring professionalism. 
  • Urgency – Balances speed and sensitivity in patient interactions. 
  • Detail Orientation – Ensures accuracy and completeness in documentation. 
  • Cultural Competence – Demonstrates respect and understanding of diverse experiences. 
  • Adaptability – Successfully operates in evolving policy and procedural environments. 

Additional Information

Our Benefits – Supporting You Inside and Out
At Patient Funding Alternatives, we know that caring for others starts with caring for our own people. That’s why we offer a comprehensive, industry-leading benefits package designed to support your health, your future, and your wellbeing. Our team members enjoy medical, dental, and vision coverage through UnitedHealthcare and Guardian, employer-paid life and disability insurance, and a 401(k) plan with company match. We also invest in your wellness — with up to $100 annual reimbursement for fitness, mindfulness, and wellness activities, plus access to mental health tools like the Calm Health app and a 24/7 Employee Assistance Program. From flexible spending accounts to nationwide fitness programs and virtual care, PFA is committed to helping you stay healthy, balanced, and thriving — at work and beyond.