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Prior Authorization Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Prior Authorization

Homewood, AL ยท On-site

$18 - $24/hr

General Summary The Prior Authorization Specialist coordinates and secures insurance authorization for medications, in-office injections, and imaging when needed to support timely patient care. This ...

Prior Authorization Specialist

Columbus, OH ยท On-site

$18.13 - $21.78/hr

Prior Authorization Specialist Established in 1984, Equitas Health is a regional not-for-profit community-based healthcare system and federally qualified community health center look-alike. Its ...

Prior Authorization Specialist

Battle Creek, MI ยท On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Grace Health is currently seeking an individual that will obtain prior authorizations for patients and assist with the managed care process. We offer competitive wages based on experience and up to 3 ...

Prior Authorization Specialist

Battle Creek, MI ยท On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Grace Health is currently seeking an individual that will obtain prior authorizations for patients and assist with the managed care process. We offer competitive wages based on experience and up to 3 ...

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Prior Authorization Specialist We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Prior Authorization Specialist to manage the full lifecycle of prior authorizations (PAs) for medical services. The ...

Prior Authorization Specialist

Wallingford, CT ยท On-site

$18 - $24/hr

The Prior Authorization Specialist plays a vital role in ensuring that patients receive the necessary pre-certifications and authorizations for procedures and medications. This full-time position is ...

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Prior Authorization Specialist We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Prior Authorization Specialist to manage the full lifecycle of prior authorizations (PAs) for medical services. The ...

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Prior Authorization information

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$13

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$32

How much do prior authorization jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for prior authorization in the United States is $20.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is prior authorization?

Prior authorization is a process used by health insurance companies to determine if they will cover a prescribed procedure, service, or medication. Before the provider delivers the service, they must receive approval from the insurer. This process helps control costs and ensures that the service or medication is medically necessary. It often involves submitting documentation and waiting for a decision, which can sometimes delay patient care. Patients and providers should check with insurance companies to understand which services require prior authorization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a prior authorization specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Prior Authorization Specialist, you need strong knowledge of medical terminology, insurance processes, and healthcare regulations, typically supported by a high school diploma or associate degree in a healthcare-related field. Familiarity with electronic medical records (EMR) systems, insurance portals, and authorization management software is essential. Attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities help you navigate complex cases and collaborate with providers and payers. These skills ensure accurate and timely processing of authorizations, minimizing delays in patient care and reducing administrative errors.

What are some common challenges faced by prior authorization specialists, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Prior Authorization specialists often encounter challenges such as navigating complex insurance policies, managing high volumes of requests, and communicating effectively with both healthcare providers and insurance representatives. To prepare for these challenges, applicants should develop strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a good understanding of medical terminology and insurance guidelines. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) systems and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment are also valuable assets in this role.

What is the difference between Prior Authorization vs Medical Billing Specialist?

AspectPrior AuthorizationMedical Billing Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires knowledge of insurance policies, healthcare regulations, and sometimes certifications like NCQA or AHIPRequires knowledge of coding, billing procedures, and often certifications like CPC or CCS
Work EnvironmentHealthcare provider offices, insurance companies, or hospitalsMedical offices, billing companies, or healthcare facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by healthcare providers and insurers to approve treatments or proceduresUsed by healthcare providers and billing companies to process claims and payments

While both roles are essential in healthcare administration, Prior Authorization focuses on obtaining approval for treatments, whereas Medical Billing Specialists handle the financial aspects of claims processing. Understanding their differences helps clarify their distinct responsibilities within the healthcare system.

How do I become a prior authorization specialist?

To become a prior authorization specialist, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with knowledge of medical billing and coding. Relevant skills include attention to detail, communication, and familiarity with insurance policies and electronic health record systems. Certification in medical billing or coding can enhance job prospects.

What career paths follow prior authorization?

Careers following prior authorization include roles such as medical billers, claims processors, healthcare administrators, and utilization review specialists. These positions often require knowledge of insurance policies, medical coding, and healthcare regulations, and may involve certifications like CPC or CCS. Advancement can lead to supervisory or managerial roles within healthcare administration or insurance companies.

What is a prior authorization job?

A prior authorization job involves reviewing and processing requests from healthcare providers to approve specific medical treatments, medications, or procedures before they are administered. The role requires knowledge of insurance policies, medical terminology, and attention to detail, often utilizing electronic health record systems. It is essential for ensuring that treatments meet insurance criteria and are covered under the patient's plan.

What cities are hiring for Prior Authorization jobs?

Cities with the most Prior Authorization job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Prior Authorization jobs?

The most popular types of Prior Authorization jobs are:

What states have the most Prior Authorization jobs?

States with the most job openings for Prior Authorization jobs include:

Infographic showing various Prior Authorization job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,459 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Prior Authorization

Urology Centers of Alabama, P.C.

Birmingham, AL โ€ข On-site

$16.75 - $22.50/hr

Other

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

General Summary
The Prior Authorization Specialist coordinates and secures insurance authorization for medications, in-office injections, and imaging when needed to support timely patient care. This role involves reviewing payer requirements, gathering appropriate clinical documentation, and communicating with insurance companies, pharmacies, and internal staff to facilitate authorization approvals. The ideal candidate demonstrates strong time management, attention to detail, integrity, and the ability to manage multiple requests while maintaining organization and professionalism in a high-volume environment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Complete authorization submissions through electronic platforms, payer portals, and telephone communications with insurance representatives when required.
  • Review patient charts to obtain relevant clinical documentation needed to support authorization requests
  • Communicate professionally with insurance companies, pharmacies, patients, and internal staff regarding authorization requirements and status updates.
  • Track and update prior authorization requests and outcomes using internal tracking tools and insurance portals to ensure timely processing and follow-up.
  • Demonstrate accountability for assigned authorization requests by monitoring status and following up with payers when necessary.
  • Actively monitor PA Pool and EHR inbox communications to ensure timely response to authorization requests and related inquiries.
  • Ensure all prior authorization submissions and supporting documentation accurately reflect the patient's medical record and comply with payer requirements.

Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move more than 45 pounds.
  • Familiarity with medical terminology and working knowledge of medical coding systems (CPT, ICD-10) relevant to prior authorization requests.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize urgent requests and meet deadlines in a high-volume environment.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills when interacting with patients, insurance representatives, pharmacies, and internal clinical staff.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team while managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Demonstrates integrity, professionalism, and ethical decision-making when handling patient information and submitting prior authorization requests.
  • HS Diploma or GED required.