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Prior Authorization Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

Imaging Access Specialist

Juneau, AK · On-site

$25 - $30.04/hr

Obtain prior authorizations from commercial, federal, and tribal payors within required timeframes. * Track authorization status, update records in the EHR, and notify schedulers, providers, and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Prior Authorization information

See Alaska salary details

$14

$22

$34

How much do prior authorization jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for prior authorization in Alaska is $22.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.65 and $24.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a prior authorization specialist?

To become a prior authorization specialist, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in healthcare or insurance billing. Relevant skills include knowledge of medical terminology, insurance policies, and proficiency with electronic health record (EHR) systems; certifications such as Certified Professional Coder (CPC) can enhance job prospects.

What jobs pay $4000 a week without a degree?

Jobs that can pay $4,000 a week without a degree include certain sales roles, real estate agents, commercial pilots, and skilled trades such as electricians or plumbers with experience. These positions often require specialized skills, certifications, or licensing but do not necessarily require a college degree. High earnings typically depend on experience, performance, and the industry environment.

How much do precertification specialists make?

Precertification specialists typically earn between $35,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often require knowledge of insurance policies and medical billing systems, and some roles may offer additional benefits or bonuses.

What Is Prior Authorization?

Prior authorization is a check done by insurance companies and other third-party payers to determine whether or not they should pay for a medical procedure or specific medication. Factors that can trigger prior authorization requests include things like age, the availability of alternative medicines, or the need to check for drug interactions. If they reject the prior authorization, payers often require doctors to attempt the insurance company's preferred procedure and verify unsuccessful results before accepting an alternative treatment plan. Pre-authorization requests can take up to 30 days, though insurance companies and healthcare providers are continuing to work on ways to cut this time down.

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.

What is prior authorization in healthcare?

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 career paths follow prior authorization?

Careers following prior authorization typically 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 working in insurance companies, healthcare providers, or pharmacy benefit management companies.
What are the most commonly searched types of Prior Authorization jobs in Alaska? The most popular types of Prior Authorization jobs in Alaska are:
What job categories do people searching Prior Authorization jobs in Alaska look for? The top searched job categories for Prior Authorization jobs in Alaska are:
Infographic showing various Prior Authorization job openings in Alaska as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,803 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Prior Authorization Technician

Kenaitze Indian Tribe

Kenai, AK • On-site

$19.21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Prior Authorization Technician

Department: Revenue Cycle

Program: Health Systems

Reports To: Revenue Integrity Supervisor

Employment Status: Full-Time

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Schedule: 40 Hours/52 Weeks

Preference: TERO Ordinance 2017-01, P.L. 93-638

Job Summary

The Prior Authorization Technician supports the Health Systems Departments by completing prior authorizations as needed for services being rendered at Dena'ina Wellness Center. The Prior Authorization Technician reviews un'ina (patient) insurance information and determine if prior authorization is necessary prior to the provider providing direct un'ina (patient) care services. The Prior Authorization Technician communicates with the un'ina (patient), provider staff, and insurance company, to complete necessary prior authorization paperwork necessary for billing compliance.

Essential Functions

  • Examines un'ina (patient) records to determine if treatments or procedures require prior authorization, ensuring that each case is assessed accurately
  • Confirms un'ina (patient) insurance details, verifying that the coverage is in place for the proposed healthcare services
  • Responsible for preparing and submitting detailed prior authorization requests to insurance companies, complete with all necessary documentation
  • Works closely with healthcare providers to collect necessary clinical information, streamlining the authorization process
  • Tracks all prior authorization requests, follow up with insurance companies, and keep detailed records of all communications
  • Investigates insurance denials, resubmit requests, and appeal when needed to ensure that un'ina (patient) receive the care they require
  • Communicates with un'ina (patient) on the prior authorization process
  • Ensures compliance with Tribal, federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, Tribal policies and TERO ordinance

It is the intent of this job description to highlight the essential functions of the position; however, it is not an all-inclusive list. The incumbent may be called upon and required to follow or perform other duties and tasks requested by his/her supervisor, consistent with the purpose of the position, department and/or the Kenaitze Indian Tribe's objectives.

Working Conditions

Lifting Requirements

  • Light work - Exerting up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. If the use of arm and/or leg control requires exertion of forces greater than that of sedentary work and if the worker sits most of the time, the job is considered light work.

Physical Requirements

  • Stand or Sit (Stationary position)
  • Walk (Move, Traverse)
  • Use hands/fingers to handle or feel (Operate, Activate, Use, Prepare, Inspect, Place, Detect, Position)
  • Talk/hear (Communicate, Detect, Converse with, Discern, Convey, Express oneself, Exchange information)
  • See (Detect, Determine, Perceive, Identify, Recognize, Judge, Observe, Inspect, Estimate, Assess)
  • Repetitive Motion

OSHA Categories

  • Category III - Normal routine involves no exposure to blood, body fluid or tissue and as part of their employment, incumbents are not called upon to perform or assist in emergency care or first aid

Equipment and Tools

Equipment used for job: Computer, phone, scanner, copier, electronic health records

Travel

  • Local
  • In-State

Qualifications

Education

  • High School Diploma or GED

Experience

  • Two (2) years of medical insurance and/or medical billing
  • Proficiency in electronic health records

Preferred

  • Knowledge and experience working with cultural diversities
  • Associates degree in related field
  • Experience with Indian Health Services facilities operations

Special Skills

  • Proficiency with Microsoft Suite, or obtain training within 90 days of hire
  • Conducts business in a service-oriented manner that is attentive, pleasant, respectful and kind when dealing with un'ina, visitors, co-workers and others
  • Ability to multi-task, work independently, and meet deadlines
  • Knowledge of prior authorization process
  • Knowledge of billing and coding for Primary Care, Dental, Optometry, Laboratory, Therapy Services, Radiology, Pharmacy, Behavioral Health, etc.
  • General knowledge of CPT and ICD-10 codes and medical terminology
  • Customer service experience
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills

This position is a Covered Position subject to all requirements of the Alaska Barrier Crimes Act (ABCA) and to the Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act, (ICPA). ABCA and ICPA requirements apply and must be complied with at all times in order to remain in the position.

*Memorandum of Understanding: Serves as documented evidence that the Kenaitze Indian Tribe has expressed the ineligibility of an employee to operate motor vehicles owned, leased or rented by the Kenaitze Indian Tribe, or to operate a personal vehicle on behalf of the Kenaitze Indian Tribe.


Job Posted by ApplicantPro