Description The DME Navigator serves as a key resource for patients requiring durable medical equipment (DME), prosthetic and orthotic services, and lymphedema supplies within Rehabilitation Services. This position is responsible for guiding patients through the care continuum by coordinating appointments, obtaining insurance authorizations, verifying benefits, and ensuring timely access to prescribed equipment and services.
Working closely with patients, providers, therapists, and payors, the DME Navigator supports both new and returning orthotic and prosthetic patients by facilitating registration, scheduling, equipment coordination, and authorization processes. The incumbent acts as a patient advocate, helping individuals understand coverage requirements, estimated costs, and payor guidelines while delivering exceptional customer service.
The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, highly organized, and committed to providing a seamless patient experience in a fast-paced healthcare environment. Salary Range: $31.88 - $45.66 per hour Qualifications Required Qualifications Working knowledge of electronic medical record (EMR) systems; Epic experience preferred. Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word and Excel.
Knowledge of rehabilitation services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, prosthetic, orthotic, and durable medical equipment terminology. Familiarity with insurance authorization processes, payor requirements, medical billing practices, and coding systems including CPT, HCPCS, and ICD-10. Ability to interpret and understand medical documentation, patient intake forms, therapist instructions, and organizational policies.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize competing demands and manage multiple tasks effectively. Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail. Ability to remain productive and organized in a fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions and changing priorities.
Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills. Ability to provide exceptional customer service and effectively interact with patients, families, providers, and staff from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to exercise sound judgment in handling patient and operational issues.
Preferred Qualifications Previous experience in rehabilitation services, medical equipment coordination, prosthetics and orthotics, patient access, or healthcare navigation. Experience obtaining insurance authorizations and verifying benefits for medical equipment or rehabilitation services. Knowledge of UCLA Health systems, workflows, and patient care processes.
Demonstrated commitment to teamwork, collaboration, continuous improvement, and maintaining a patient-centered approach to care.