ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Prior Authorization Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

VSI

Insurance Authorization Specialist

Reston, VA · On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This role is responsible for obtaining prior authorization for various medical procedures, services, and medications. This is a full-time position working out of our Reston office. The position ...

Insight Global

Pharmacy Technician

Washington, DC · Remote

$20.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

The Prior Authorization Pharmacy Technician is responsible for supporting members, providers, and pharmacies by processing prior authorization requests for prescription medications while ensuring ...

ARM Consulting

Reimbursement Specialist

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$21.75 - $30/hr

Prior Authorization Support & Access Navigation * * Review payer-specific prior authorization requirements * * Educate provider offices regarding payer documentation expectations * * Support ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPrior Authorization JobsPrior Authorization Jobs in Reston, VA

Prior Authorization information

See Reston, VA salary details

$14

$22

$34

How much do prior authorization jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for prior authorization in Reston, VA is $22.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $24.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 and gain 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 Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) can also enhance job prospects.

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 career paths in prior authorization?

Careers in prior authorization typically include roles such as prior authorization specialists, medical reviewers, and healthcare administrators. Advancement can lead to supervisory or managerial positions, and professionals often develop skills in healthcare regulations, insurance policies, and medical coding. Certifications in medical billing and coding can enhance career growth in this field.

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.
More about Prior Authorization jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Prior Authorization jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Prior Authorization jobs in Reston, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Prior Authorization jobs in Reston, VA?

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

What job categories do people searching Prior Authorization jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Prior Authorization jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Prior Authorization jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Prior Authorization job openings:

Prior Authorization jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prior Authorization job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,929 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Prior Authorization Pharmacist

Accede Solutions Inc.

Mclean, VA • On-site

$59.75 - $71.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Prior Authorization (PA) Pharmacist

The Prior Authorization (PA) Pharmacist would facilitate efforts in the review of clinical documentation and the Preferred Drug list (PDL) to determine proper medication therapy. The PA pharmacist will work with internal and external stakeholders in evaluating and continually developing a strategy for Utilization Management.

Responsibilities:

  • Clinical evaluation of medication therapy using established clinical or PDL criteria, drug compendia, and appropriate methods that support the principles of high-quality evidence-based medicine
  • Peer to Peer discussions with medical providers to discuss Prior Authorization reviews.
  • Consultations/Interventions: work with staff in contacting prescribers needing consultation to provide clinical information on prescribing practices that have been identified as outliers. Reviews prior authorizations data and determine opportunities for interventions.
  • Intervention Refinements: Collaborates on the refinement of consultation scripting; solicits and utilizes input from those contacted toward scripting improvements.
  • Operations: Contributes to the success of the Clinical Call Centers and Prior Authorization department by assisting with the implementation and management of both written and verbal communications to members and physicians. Is available for consultation on pharmacy-related questions and issues for others within the organization.
  • Quality Improvement: Contributes to program improvements by using continuous quality improvement processes, by being proactive in identifying improvement opportunities and by contributing on-going consultation and collaboration with product leaders.
  • Medical/Clinical: Upholds clinical integrity of pharmaceutical solutions by staying up to date on medication information, contributing to the identification of pharmacy program best practices, collaborating with Medical Directors, Clinical Pharmacist, and Clinical Specialty Pharmacist to provide pharmacy expertise.
  • Drug Review: Provides clinical input during the weekly drug file updates, making recommendations on applying utilization controls
  • Other duties as assigned. Contributes creative solutions to improve operational efficiency and effectiveness of pharmacy team

Qualifications:

  • Experience in the coordination of and collaboration of work teams preferred.
  • Ability to perform clinical reviews using relevant compendia and clinical trial data.
  • Managed care pharmaceutical service experience a plus.
  • Strong research and implementation skills in practical settings.
  • Analytical skills which can translate into practical and pragmatic recommendations.
  • Strong team orientation with respect for all members.
  • People skills are essential that allow for the successful consultation and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders who do not directly report to this job.

Requirements:

  • PharmD or B.S. in Pharmacy with relevant Specialty background
  • Registered Pharmacist with respective State Licensure
  • 4 years' experience in clinical pharmacy
  • Strong verbal and written communications skills.
  • Highly skilled with Microsoft office products and ability to quickly learn proprietary systems.

Apply