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Patient Assistance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Director, US Patient Assistance Program (PAP), will play a critical role in ensuring patients who face financial barriers are able to access therapy through a compliant, scalable, and patient ...

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Patient Assistance information

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$61

How much do patient assistance jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient assistance in the United States is $21.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Patient Assistance vs Patient Advocate?

AspectPatient AssistancePatient Advocate
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma; certifications like Certified Patient Advocate (CPA) are common
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, insurance companiesHospitals, community organizations, legal settings
Employer & IndustryHealthcare providers, insurance companiesHealthcare facilities, legal and social services
Primary FocusHelping patients access services, insurance, and financial aidRepresenting and supporting patients' rights and needs

While both roles support patients, Patient Assistance focuses on helping patients access financial aid and services, whereas Patient Advocates primarily represent and support patients' rights and navigate complex healthcare systems.

What are some common challenges faced in a Patient Assistance role, and how can they be managed effectively?

Patient Assistance professionals often encounter challenges such as navigating complex insurance coverage issues, addressing patients’ emotional concerns, and coordinating care among multiple providers. These challenges can be managed by staying up to date with healthcare policies, developing strong communication skills, and building collaborative relationships with medical staff and social workers. Effective organization and empathy are key to ensuring patients receive timely support and resources, which leads to better outcomes for both patients and the healthcare team.

What is a Patient Assistance representative?

A Patient Assistance representative helps patients access medications, treatments, or healthcare services that they may not be able to afford. They work with patients, healthcare providers, and pharmaceutical companies to navigate assistance programs, complete applications, and ensure eligibility requirements are met. Their goal is to reduce financial barriers and improve patient access to necessary medical care, often by securing free or discounted medications. Patient Assistance representatives often work in hospitals, clinics, or with nonprofit organizations.

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

To thrive as a Patient Assistance Specialist, you need a solid understanding of healthcare processes, insurance eligibility, and medical terminology, often supported by a high school diploma or healthcare-related certification. Familiarity with patient management software, electronic health records (EHRs), and insurance verification systems is typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities help you advocate effectively for patients and coordinate resources. These competencies are crucial for ensuring patients receive timely access to care and support while navigating complex healthcare systems.
More about Patient Assistance jobs
What cities are hiring for Patient Assistance jobs? Cities with the most Patient Assistance job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Patient Assistance jobs? The most popular types of Patient Assistance jobs are:
What states have the most Patient Assistance jobs? States with the most job openings for Patient Assistance jobs include:
Infographic showing various Patient Assistance job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,686 per year, or $22 per hour.
Patient Assistance Program Coordinator - as needed

Patient Assistance Program Coordinator - as needed

Riverside Health System

Newport News, VA • On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Part-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Newport News, Virginia
Overview
The Patient Assistance Program Coordinator is the subject matter expert in performing tasks related to the management of third-party billing or patient financial assistance for patient within the health system and assists with managing and processing high dollar specialty medications and may be responsible for benefits investigation, obtaining prior authorizations, copay/foundation assistance, drug replacement services and patient financial counseling. Additional activities may include patient onboarding, order entry, financial tracking, patient care coordination, medication ordering/tracking, cold chain distribution and shipping activities. This role will assist with training/onboarding of new employees and continually seeks growth through education opportunities and is a liaison to disseminate learned information.
What you will do
  • Timely process of referrals and submit clinical supporting documentation to insurance carriers, manufacturers or foundations to expedite prior authorization and/or patient assistance processes. Collaborate with other departments to assist in obtaining prior authorizations, patient assistance medications or financial assistance. Assist with medical necessity documentations to expedite approvals and ensure that appropriate follow-up is performed. Follow prior authorization and/or patient assistance workflows and polices/procedures. Serves as a subject matter expert in the role and acts as a resources to other team members. Continually seeks growth educational opportunities and serves as a liaison to disseminate learned information.
  • Demonstrates the ability to work independently, prioritize workflow to meet deadlines and possesses excellent time management skills. Perform tasks accurately and efficiently. Possesses excellent interpersonal customer service and communication skills (both written and verbal). Provides timely information, follow-up and responses to key stakeholders.
  • Accurate documentation of all intake referrals and /or prior authorization information in the patient medical record or patient assistance tracking software in compliance with policy and procedure/workflow. Completes timely documentation within the required tracking systems and retrieves necessary documentation and maintains up to date knowledge of the pharmaceutical companies patient assistance programs.
  • Proactively tracks and manages patient refills/outreach to ensure timely prescription/infusion services.
  • Provides oversight and monitoring of prior authorizations and patient assistance enrollments to ensure continuation of treatment programs or drug access services.
  • Secure patients' demographic and medical information in compliance with organization HIPAA policies and procedures.
  • Proactively conducts inspections and audits to ensure program compliance. Provide timely, accurate reports and training to to demonstrate compliance with standards and to provide quality service.

Qualifications
Education
  • Program Graduate, Pharmacy Technician Training Program or equivalent (Required) or
  • Program Graduate, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) (Required) or
  • Program Graduate, Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) (Required)

Experience
  • 5-6 years Experience as Pharmacy Technician, LPN, or CMA (Required)
  • 3-4 years Experience obtaining and managing medication prior authorization or medication assistance programs as part of job function (Required)

Skills and Abilities
  • Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook)
  • Familiar with Pharmacy and Medication Terminology
  • Prescription drug and over-the-counter knowledge
  • Basic math skills, including pharmaceutical calculations
  • Basic pharmacy workflow
  • Understanding pharmacy computer systems
  • Ability to navigate and read electronic health records
  • Knowledge of patient assistance programs
  • Prior authorization of medications

Licenses and Certifications
  • Registered Pharmacy Technician - Virginia Department of Health Professions (VDHP) Licensed Pharmacy Technician Upon Hire(Required) and
  • Pharmacy Technician (CPHT) - Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) Upon Hire(Required) or
  • Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) - Virginia Department of Health Professions (VDHP) Upon Hire(Required) or
  • Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) - American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) Upon Hire(Required)
  • Advanced certification in specialty pharmacy (Pharmacy Technician Certification Board, American Society Health System Pharmacy, National Community Oncology Dispensing Association or other approved programs) (Preferred)

To learn more about being a team member with Riverside Health System visit us at https://www.riversideonline.com/careers.