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Prior Authorization Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Prior Authorization Coordinator I

Portland, OR · On-site +1

$19.43 - $21.86/hr

Determines the requirement for prior authorization based on the plan type, ICD-10 code, CPT/HCPC code or place of service. * Provides education to members and providers regarding prior authorization ...

Position Summary Utilizes the electronic prior authorization (PA) platform to process pharmacy PAs in accordance with clinical criteria and plan benefits while ensuring that the necessary data is ...

Pharmacist

Portland, OR · On-site

$61.75 - $74.25/hr

... prior authorization requests and appeals as they may pertain to MTM objectives Review and refine policies and procedures regarding Pharmacy Department functions including medication therapy ...

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Prior Authorization information

See Portland, OR salary details

$14

$22

$34

How much do prior authorization jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for prior authorization in Portland, OR is $22.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $24.47 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 are the most commonly searched types of Prior Authorization jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Prior Authorization jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Prior Authorization jobs in Portland, OR?

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

What job categories do people searching Prior Authorization jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Prior Authorization jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Prior Authorization jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Prior Authorization job openings:

Infographic showing various Prior Authorization job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,089 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Prior Authorization Coordinator I

Moda Health

Portland, OR • On-site, Remote

$19.43 - $21.86/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Moda Health rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

107th of 309 rated insurance


Job description

Let’s do great things, together!

About Moda
Founded in Oregon in 1955, Moda is proud to be a company of real people committed to quality. Today, like then, we’re focused on building a better future for healthcare. That starts by offering outstanding coverage to our members, compassionate support to our community and comprehensive benefits to our employees. It keeps going by connecting with neighbors to create healthy spaces and places, together. Moda values diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We aim to demonstrate our commitment to diversity through all our business practices and invite applications from candidates that share our commitment to this diversity. Our diverse experiences and perspectives help us become a stronger organization. Let’s be better together.


Position Summary
This position will provide support to the Medical Management team by assisting in the investigation and research of prior authorization requests.  Completes reviews or support the clinical staff in the review processes by preparing or completing the requests as assigned. This is a FT WFH role. 
Pay Range
$19.43 - $21.86 ​​​hourly (depending on experience).
Actual pay is based on qualifications. Applicants who do not exceed the minimum qualifications will only be eligible for the low end of the pay range.


Please fill out an application on our company page, linked below, to be considered for this position.

https://j.brt.mv/jb.do?reqGK=27783089&refresh=true


 

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Pharmacy, Life, & Disability
  • 401K- Matching
  • FSA
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • PTO and Company Paid Holidays

Required Skills, Experience & Education:

  • High school education or equivalent.
  • 1-2 years of experience in a medical office and/or insurance experience needed.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and decision quality preferred.
  • High level of understanding of medical terminology and coding, state and federal regulations for claims adjudication and provider contracting.
  • Knowledge of Health Plan benefits.
  • Type a minimum of 35 wpm and 10key proficiency of 135spm on computer number keypad.
  • Proficient with PC and Microsoft Office applications.
  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills including demonstrated business writing and grammar skills.
  • Ability to interpret complex benefit packages and contract language.
  • Excellent organizational and detail orientation skills.
  • Ability to work independently, as well as part of a team, dealing with all levels of staff, members, providers, in a professional manner.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality.
  • Ability to come to work on time and daily.
  • Ability to work well under pressure, work with frequent interruptions and shifting priorities.
  • Must present a professional business image in all settings.


Primary Functions:

  • Review and research referral and authorization requests received in Healthcare Services. Process or route per appropriate guideline.
  • Determines the requirement for prior authorization based on the plan type, ICD-10 code, CPT/HCPC code or place of service.
  • Provides education to members and providers regarding prior authorization process.
  • Interacts with providers and provider offices to gather complete, accurate information to process prior authorizations and referrals and coordinates with providers to ensure consideration is given to unique treatment.
  • Consults the RN, Manager or Supervisor on complex cases.
  • Responsible for daily administrative functions of the clinical team in Healthcare Services, ensuring deadlines are met to support required processes of the clinical team, members and providers as well as facilitates the timely processing of documentation submitted to the Medical Management department.
  • Utilizes the Moda Health systems for documentation of contact with providers and members.
  • Communicates effectively with other Medical Management support staff.
  • Analyze claims and encounters according to the limits of authorization, benefit plan and provider contracts.
  • Effectively uses the Moda Health systems to accurately determine eligibility, benefit plan, and physician networks associated with the member’s plan.
  • Completes approvals, and denials by the medical director, of claims and prior authorization requests in a professional, positive manner.
  • Send proper correspondence to providers, members, and other departments to either obtain additional information necessary for the review of claims or denial of requested services.
  • Analyze authorizations for correct information, such as authorization maximums, limitations, and special instructions for performance groups.
  • Ensure adherence of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and other regulatory guidelines including privacy and security.
  • Responsible for the auditing of individual daily work for accuracy, consistency and compliance based on Moda Health policies and procedures, state, federal and CMS (Medicare)/Medicaid regulations.
  • Identifies problems and researches alternative solutions.
  • Works with other team members to maintain the workflow to meet productivity and compliance standards.
  • Completes other duties and special projects as assigned by the HCS Supervisor and/or the HCS Manager.
  • Maintains an established productivity based on the complexity and demands of a heavy workload, complex services agreements, provider contracts and complex benefit packages.
  • Responsible for utilizing all applicable policies, procedures and materials used in determining the proper review of claims, review, and processing of prior authorization requests for services.
  • Enter data into appropriate system Facets UM or CT Dynamo must be able to accurately determine member eligibility and provider participation within a network.
  • Maintain accurate patient note entry when not approving a request, when awaiting additional information or when routing the referral or preauthorization request.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.


Working Conditions & Contact with Others

  • Office environment with extensive close PC and keyboard use, constant sitting, and frequent phone communication. Must be able to navigate multiple computer screens. A reliable, high-speed, hard-wired internet connection required to support remote or hybrid work. Must be comfortable being on camera for virtual training and meetings. Work in excess of standard workweek, including evenings and occasional weekends, to meet business need. 
  • Internally with own department and Customer Service.  Externally with Moda members, PBM vendor, providers, provider offices. 


Together, we can be more. We can be better.
 ​​​​​​
Moda Health seeks to allow equal employment opportunities for all qualified persons without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status or any other status protected by law. This is applicable to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absences, compensation, and training. 
For more information regarding accommodations, please direct your questions to Kristy Nehler & Danielle Baker via our humanresources@modahealth.com email.


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