Resp & Qualifications

PURPOSE: 
The Clinical Appeals Nurse completes research, basic analysis, and evaluation of member and provider disputes regarding adverse and adverse coverage decisions. The Clinical Appeals Nurse utilizes clinical skills and knowledge of all applicable State and Federal rules and regulations that govern the appeal process for Government Programs lines of business in order to formulate a professional response to the appeal request. We are looking for an experienced professional to work remotely from within the greater Baltimore metropolitan area. The incumbent will be expected to come into a CareFirst location periodically for meetings, training and/or other business-related activities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Investigates, interprets, and analyzes written appeals and reconsideration requests from multiple sources including applicants, subscribers, attorneys, group administrators, internal stake holders and any other initiators. Responds to such requests with original letters, complex and technical in nature, upholding corporate policies and decisions while meeting all State and Federal regulations and mandates.
• Organizes the appeal case for physician review by compiling clinical, contractual, medical policy and claims information along with corporate and appellant correspondence.  Formulates recommendations for disposition. Prepares the written case for review and, following the physician review, communicates the final decision to the member and providers including an explanation of the final decision and all External appeal rights.
• Investigates, interprets, analyzes and prioritizes appeal requests using nursing expert knowledge and all available clinical information for both medical and behavioral health conditions, as well as medical policies, to determine if the adverse coverage and adverse decisions are appropriate. Interpret and apply, as appropriate Regulatory and accredidation requirements. Collaborates with Independent Review Organizations and contracted Panel Physicians in obtaining clinical opinions from physician specialists, to determine if adverse decisions are appropriate.   Interacts and responds to complaints from Regulatory Agencies and CMS.
• Maintains a ready command of a continuously expanding knowledge base of current medical practices and procedures, including current medical, mental health and substance abuse/addiction procedural terminology, surgical procedures, dental procedures, diagnostic entities and their complications.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education Level: High School Diploma or GED.

Licenses/Certifications:

• RN  - Registered Nurse - State Licensure And/or Compact State Licensure Upon Hire Required
• CCM - Certified Case Manager  Upon Hire Preferred
• LNCC - Legal Nurse Consultant Certified  Upon Hire Preferred

Experience: 2 years medical-surgical or similar clinical experience OR 3 years' experience in mental health, psychiatric setting.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 2 years' experience in Medical Review, Utilization Management or Case Management at CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, or similar Managed Care organization or hospital preferred.
• BSN/MSN Degree.  Government Program experience with Appeals and Grievance, Experience with MCG, InterQual, NCD and LCD's. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs) 

• Knowledge and understanding of medical terminology.
• Demonstrated knowledge of regulatory and accreditation requirements, understanding of appeals process and utilization management, and systems software used in processing appeals.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, strong listening skills, critical thinking and analytical skills, problem solving skills, ability to set priorities and multi-task.
• Ability to effectively communicate and provide positive customer service to every internal and external customer.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office programs.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to assess the medical necessity and appropriateness of patient care and treatment on a case-by-case basis, including issues pertaining to members with mental health treatment needs or those with substance disorders and addictions.
• Must be able to meet established deadlines and handle multiple customer service demands from internal and external customers, within set expectations for service excellence. Must be able to effectively communicate and provide positive customer service to every internal and external customer, including customers who may be demanding or otherwise challenging. 

Salary Range: $66,960 - $132,990

Salary Range Disclaimer

The disclosed range estimate has not been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the work is being performed. This compensation range is specific and considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilites of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, internal peer equity, and market and business consideration. It is not typical for an individual to be hired at the top of the range, as compensation decisions depend on each case's facts and circumstances, including but not limited to experience, internal equity, and location. In addition to your compensation, CareFirst offers a comprehensive benefits package, various incentive programs/plans, and 401k contribution programs/plans (all benefits/incentives are subject to eligibility requirements).

Department

Equal Employment Opportunity

CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield is an Equal Opportunity (EEO) employer.  It is the policy of the Company to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

Where To Apply

Please visit our website to apply: www.carefirst.com/careers

Federal Disc/Physical Demand

Note:  The incumbent is required to immediately disclose any debarment, exclusion, or other event that makes him/her ineligible to perform work directly or indirectly on Federal health care programs.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The associate is primarily seated while performing the duties of the position.  Occasional walking or standing is required.  The hands are regularly used to write, type, key and handle or feel small controls and objects.  The associate must frequently talk and hear.  Weights up to 25 pounds are occasionally lifted.

Sponsorship in US

Must be eligible to work in the U.S. without Sponsorship

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