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Patient Service Associate Jobs in Santa Maria, CA

Pacific Eye Surgeons

Clinical Manager

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

... resolving patient service concerns and escalate issues to management as appropriate. Work ... Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor's degree preferred.

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All JobsPatient Service Associate JobsPatient Service Associate Jobs in Santa Maria, CA

Patient Service Associate information

See Santa Maria, CA salary details

$13

$19

$25

How much do patient service associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient service associate in Santa Maria, CA is $19.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $21.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a patient service associate?

Patient Service Associates are healthcare professionals who serve as the first point of contact for patients in medical facilities. They handle administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, verifying insurance information, and assisting with patient check-in and check-out procedures. Their role is essential for ensuring a smooth and efficient patient experience and supporting the overall operations of clinics, hospitals, or medical offices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a patient service associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Patient Service Associate, you need strong customer service abilities, attention to detail, and familiarity with healthcare procedures, usually supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Competence in using electronic health record (EHR) systems, scheduling software, and basic office applications is typically required. Excellent communication, empathy, and problem-solving skills help you effectively support patients and collaborate with medical teams. These competencies ensure efficient clinic operations, positive patient experiences, and accurate management of sensitive health information.

What are some common challenges patient service associates face and how can they effectively handle them?

Patient Service Associates often encounter high patient volumes and must balance multiple administrative tasks while maintaining excellent customer service. Managing stressed or anxious patients and navigating scheduling conflicts are common challenges. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and remaining calm under pressure are key to success. Many employers provide training and mentorship to help Patient Service Associates develop these skills and adapt to the fast-paced healthcare environment.

What is the difference between Patient Service Associate vs Medical Receptionist?

AspectPatient Service AssociateMedical Receptionist
CredentialsHigh school diploma; some roles may require certification in healthcare customer serviceHigh school diploma; often no formal certification required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, outpatient facilitiesDoctor's offices, clinics, outpatient centers
Job ResponsibilitiesPatient check-in, scheduling, insurance verification, patient communicationScheduling appointments, answering phones, greeting patients, managing records

The Patient Service Associate and Medical Receptionist roles share similar duties like patient interaction and administrative tasks. However, Patient Service Associates often have more responsibilities related to insurance and patient flow in healthcare settings, while Medical Receptionists focus more on appointment scheduling and front desk duties. Both roles are essential for smooth healthcare operations and are commonly searched for by those interested in healthcare administrative careers.

More about Patient Service Associate jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Patient Service jobs in Santa Maria, CA?

The most popular types of Patient Service jobs in Santa Maria, CA are:

What cities near Santa Maria, CA are hiring for Patient Service Associate jobs?

Cities near Santa Maria, CA with the most Patient Service Associate job openings:

Patient Service Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Patient Service Associate job openings in Santa Maria, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,414 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Patient Services Associate II

Pacific Central Coast Health Center

Santa Maria, CA • On-site

$25 - $34.33/hr

Other

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Where You'll Work
Dignity Health's Pacific Central Coast Health Centers (PHC) is a non-profit Community clinic organization comprised of more than 40 health centers located primarily from Ventura to Templeton, spanning the coast. Our experienced physicians and advanced practice providers offer a wide range of primary and specialty care services. PHC is a part of Dignity Health Central Coast's award-winning network of outstanding hospitals, imaging centers, laboratories, and post-acute services.
One Community. One Mission. One California
Job Summary and Responsibilities
As our Patient Services Professional, you will be the welcoming voice and central administrative support, ensuring seamless patient experiences and efficient clinic operations through diverse engagements.
Every day, you will expertly manage phone customer service, distribute communications, and handle patient information like demographics, insurance verification, and appointment scheduling. You'll also process referrals, authorizations, pre-registrations, and other clerical tasks, adapting to clinic needs while responsibly handling sensitive data.
To be successful in this role, you will possess exceptional communication, meticulous attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and system proficiency. Your proactive service, adaptability, and responsible handling of information are crucial for patient care and clinic goals.
  • Consistently demonstrates customer service expectations.
  • Consistently makes eye contact and smiles.
  • Demonstrates active listening with positive can do attitude.
  • Consistently respectful, concerned, and shows empathy.
  • Uses scripted greeting. "Thank you for choosing (Clinic) this is (your name) how can I help you"
  • Uses scripted closing at every interaction. "Is there anything else I can do for you" Over the phone and as patients leave the clinic.

Job Requirements
Required
  • One (1) year experience as a PSA I or
  • equivalent experience
  • Medical terminology class completion or equivalent experience

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