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Patient Support Associate Jobs in Fort Smith, AR

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Patient Support Associate information

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$58

How much do patient support associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient support associate in Fort Smith, AR is $21.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $20.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a patient support associate?

Patient Support Associates are healthcare professionals who assist patients and clinical staff in hospitals and other medical facilities. Their duties often include helping patients with daily activities, transporting patients, ensuring rooms are clean and stocked, and providing general non-medical support to enhance patient comfort and safety. They play a vital role in improving the patient experience and supporting the clinical team with routine tasks. Patient Support Associates typically work under the supervision of nurses or other healthcare staff, and strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for this role.

How does a patient support associate typically collaborate with nurses and other healthcare staff during a shift?

Patient Support Associates work closely with nurses and other healthcare professionals to ensure patients receive timely and effective care. They frequently assist with transporting patients, updating medical staff on patient needs, and helping with daily living activities under supervision. Clear communication and teamwork are essential, as Patient Support Associates often relay patient observations and assist in maintaining a safe and comfortable environment. This role requires adaptability and a collaborative mindset, as priorities can shift quickly based on patient needs.

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

To thrive as a Patient Support Associate, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong organizational skills, and experience in healthcare environments. Familiarity with hospital information systems, electronic health records (EHR), and scheduling software is often required. Excellent interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to multitask help you manage patient interactions and coordinate care effectively. These skills ensure efficient patient flow, accurate information handling, and a supportive environment that enhances the overall patient experience.

What is the difference between Patient Support Associate vs Medical Assistant?

AspectPatient Support AssociateMedical Assistant
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; optional certificationHigh school diploma; certification or diploma from accredited program often preferred
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, outpatient facilitiesClinics, hospitals, physician offices
Job DutiesPatient check-in, scheduling, basic patient supportClinical tasks, patient prep, vital signs, administrative duties

While both roles support patient care, Patient Support Associates primarily handle administrative and patient check-in tasks, whereas Medical Assistants perform clinical procedures and direct patient care. The roles often overlap in healthcare settings, but Medical Assistants typically require more clinical training and certifications.

How do you become a patient support associate?

To become a patient support associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and strong communication skills. Relevant experience in healthcare or customer service is often preferred, and some employers may require certification in basic life support or patient care. On-the-job training is common, and the role often involves working in healthcare settings such as clinics or hospitals.

What job categories do people searching Patient Support Associate jobs in Fort Smith, AR look for?

The top searched job categories for Patient Support Associate jobs in Fort Smith, AR are:

What cities near Fort Smith, AR are hiring for Patient Support Associate jobs?

Cities near Fort Smith, AR with the most Patient Support Associate job openings:

Social Services Associate - Inpatient (Days)

Mercy

Fort Smith, AR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Mercy rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 209 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

614th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Find your calling at Mercy! Are you passionate about helping patients navigate complex healthcare needs and ensuring they receive the support and resources necessary for successful outcomes? Mercy is seeking a compassionate and collaborative Social Worker - Inpatient Care Management to join our team.
In this role, you will partner with patients, families, physicians, nurses, and interdisciplinary healthcare teams to coordinate care, address psychosocial needs, facilitate discharge planning, and support positive patient outcomes throughout the continuum of care. Position Details:

What You'll Do

  • Conduct comprehensive psychosocial assessments of patients and families.

  • Identify barriers to care and develop intervention strategies to improve outcomes.

  • Coordinate discharge planning, including referrals for home health, durable medical equipment, transportation, medication assistance, and community resources.

  • Collaborate with physicians, nursing staff, care managers, and external agencies to support safe and timely patient transitions.

  • Assist with crisis intervention, guardianship, power of attorney, and other legal or ethical concerns when appropriate.

  • Support initiatives focused on reducing length of stay, improving patient satisfaction, and enhancing care management outcomes.

  • Document assessments, interventions, and care plans within the electronic medical record.

  • Provide education and guidance to patients, families, and healthcare team members regarding available resources and discharge expectations.

  • Participate in quality improvement activities and performance initiatives that support exceptional patient care.

QualificationsRequired
  • Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Sociology, Social Science, or a related field.

  • Minimum of two years of experience in a clinical or healthcare setting.

  • Strong assessment, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

  • Effective time management and organizational skills.

  • Advanced computer proficiency.

  • Knowledge of human behavior and the clinical aspects of medical social work.

  • Ability to work collaboratively with patients, families, physicians, and interdisciplinary teams.

Preferred
  • Previous experience in hospital-based care management, case management, discharge planning, or medical social work.

  • Experience working with community resources and post-acute care services.

Why Mercy?

From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period.

Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.


What Mercy employees say

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About Mercy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our mission is clear. We bring to life a healing ministry through our compassionate care and exceptional service. At Mercy, we believe in careers that match the unique gifts of unique individuals - careers that not only make the most of your skills and talents, but also your heart.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chesterfield, MO, US

Year founded

1827