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Prior Authorization Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Avera Health

Preadmissions Representative

Sioux Center, IA · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Appropriately documents prior authorization and communicates information to performing facility, physician, clinic staff and patient and/or patient's family as necessary. * Obtains information ...

UnityPoint Health

Pharmacy Technician Specialty

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Initiate and coordinate prior authorization requests; follow up with third-party payers. * Collect insurance information, run test claims, and obtain medical records for prior authorizations. * Re ...

UnityPoint Health

Pharmacy Technician Specialty

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Initiate and coordinate prior authorization requests; follow up with third-party payers. * Collect insurance information, run test claims, and obtain medical records for prior authorizations. * Re ...

UnityPoint Health

Pharmacy Technician Specialty

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Initiate and coordinate prior authorization requests; follow up with third-party payers. * Collect insurance information, run test claims, and obtain medical records for prior authorizations. * Re ...

Summit BHC

Intake Clinician

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$33K - $38K/yr

Facilitates intake, admission, and prior authorization process for incoming patients. * Performs insurance benefit verifications, disseminating the information gathered to patients, their families ...

UnityPoint Health

Pharmacy Tech

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Initiate and coordinate prior authorization requests; follow up with third-party payers. * Collect insurance information, run test claims, and obtain medical records for prior authorizations. * Re ...

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All JobsPrior Authorization JobsPrior Authorization Jobs in Iowa

Prior Authorization information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$19

$30

How much do prior authorization jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for prior authorization in Iowa is $19.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $21.68 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.
More about Prior Authorization jobs

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

The most popular types of Prior Authorization jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Prior Authorization jobs in Iowa?

For Prior Authorization jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Prior Authorization jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Prior Authorization jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Prior Authorization jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Prior Authorization job openings:

Prior Authorization jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prior Authorization job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,820 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Certified Medical Assistant - Remote

UnityPoint Health

West Des Moines, IA • On-site, Remote

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

UnityPoint Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 361 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

268th of 888 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Overview
UnityPoint Clinic
Regional Certified Medical Assistant
West Des Moines, IA (this position can work from home or in office)
Monday-Friday 8AM-5PM
Full-time + benefits
This role provides medication prior authorization support for assigned clinics in the Des Moines region using the Epic In Basket system. The Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) is responsible for managing prior authorizations from clinic to pharmacy, including processing requests, coordinating with pharmacies and insurance payers, and ensuring timely approvals to support patient access to medications.
This position is primarily remote. Limited on-site workspace may be available upon request.
Why UnityPoint Health?
At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We're proud to be recognized as a Top 150 Place to Work in Healthcare by Becker's Healthcare several years in a row for our commitment to our team members.
Our competitive Total Rewards program offers benefits options that align with your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you're in. Here are just a few:
  • Expect paid time off, parental leave, 401K matching and an employee recognition program.
  • Dental and health insurance, paid holidays, short and long-term disability and more. We even offer pet insurance for your four-legged family members.
  • Early access to earned wages with Daily Pay, tuition reimbursement to help further your career and adoption assistance to help you grow your family.

With a collective goal to champion a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and respected, we honor the ways people are unique and embrace what brings us together.
And, we believe equipping you with support and development opportunities is a vital part of delivering an exceptional employment experience.
Find a fulfilling career and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.
Responsibilities
  • Provide medication prior authorization support for assigned clinics in the Des Moines region using the Epic In Basket system.
  • Manage prior authorizations from clinic to pharmacy, including submission, tracking, approval, denial, and follow-up.
  • Monitor and process Epic In Basket work queues related to medication authorization requests and approvals.
  • Communicate with clinics, pharmacies, and insurance payers to obtain required clinical documentation and approvals.
  • Follow up on pending prior authorizations to prevent delays in patient access to medications.
  • Escalate urgent, complex, or denied authorizations to providers or leadership as appropriate.
  • Perform all duties within Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) certification, competency, and provider delegation.
  • Document all authorization activity, phone calls, and communications in Epic using standardized workflows.
  • Maintain accurate electronic health records in accordance with office policies and compliance standards.
  • Respond to patient questions regarding medication authorization status as directed by providers.
  • Maintain knowledge of medications and related clinical information necessary to support authorization workflows.
  • Comply with all CLIA, OSHA, Safety, Risk Management, Compliance, and HIPAA policies.
  • Demonstrate reliable attendance, strong organization, teamwork, and a commitment to quality and customer service.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Clinic Administrator.

Qualifications
  • Previous medical prior authorization and clinic experience highly desired!
  • Valid and current certification in the state of Iowa for Medical Assisting
      • Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) - accredited program with certification (AAMA, NCCT, AMT, NHA, NCMA, NAHP, AAH, ARMA or NHCA)
    • Prior experience in a clinical or outpatient setting preferred
    • Familiarity with EPIC a plus!

What UnityPoint Health employees say

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About UnityPoint Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At UnityPoint Health, we provide care in nine regions throughout Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. As the nation's fourth largest nondenominational health system in America, UnityPoint Health keeps people at the center of all we do. We are looking for dynamic and talented individuals to join our team. You'll find opportunities for every sized dream.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1995

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