Surgical Authorization Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Surgical Authorization Specialist
Location: Paoli, Collegeville and Exton
Organization: Premier Orthopaedics, in partnership with Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder

Overview

Premier Orthopaedics, in partnership with Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder, is seeking a meticulous and knowledgeable Surgical Authorization Specialist to join our team in our Paoli, Collegeville and Exton PA locations. As two of the region’s most respected providers of orthopedic and upper extremity care, we offer a collaborative, patient-focused environment that prioritizes clinical excellence, innovation, and ongoing professional development.

Position Summary

The Surgical Authorization Specialist is a vital member of the Authorizations department, responsible for obtaining insurance authorizations, verifying patient eligibility and benefits, and completing cost estimates for surgical procedures. This role ensures that all financial and administrative prerequisites for surgery are met accurately and in a timely manner, supporting a seamless patient experience and efficient clinic workflow. This is a full-time position on-site.

Key Responsibilities:

• Monitor physician surgical calendars to ensure authorizations are obtained accurately and in a timely manner for all upcoming cases.
• Verify patient demographic information and insurance eligibility, including coordination of benefits.
• Complete surgical cost analysis forms to document required cost estimations for collection prior to services.
• Verify benefits for all scheduled surgical procedures.
• Accurately document authorization details and progress within the patient’s electronic medical record (EMR) and case management system.
• Communicate effectively with physicians, patients, co-workers, and insurance representatives to establish good working relationships.
• Assist surgery schedulers with STAT or urgent authorization requests as needed.
• Ensure strict confidentiality of all health records and patient information in compliance with HIPAA guidelines.
• Assist in identifying opportunities for improvement within the daily authorization workflow process.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma/GED or equivalent working knowledge preferred.

Licenses & Certifications:

None required.

Experience:

• A minimum of 2 years of experience in the healthcare field is required.
• Previous experience in referrals/authorizations, front office operations, or charge posting is preferred.
• Experience working with eligibility, verification of benefits, and prior authorizations from various HMOs, PPOs, and commercial payers.
• Experience using computer applications, including Microsoft Office Suite, and accurately entering data into practice management systems and EMRs.

Compensation & Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision plans
• 100% employer-paid life insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer Safe Harbor contribution and additional discretionary profit sharing
• Benefits are effective on your hire date (for full-time employees)
• Generous paid sick and vacation time
• 7 paid holidays annually
• Opportunities for growth and advancement
• Employee referral reward program

About Premier Orthopaedics & Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder

Premier Orthopaedics and Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center (PHSC) are leading providers of comprehensive musculoskeletal care throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware.

Premier Orthopaedics delivers expert treatment for orthopedic injuries, joint disease, interventional spine care, regenerative medicine, and comprehensive physical therapy services, supported by more than 150 providers across 50+ locations. Our facilities include state-of-the-art MRI centers, outpatient surgery centers, physical therapy clinics, and orthopedic urgent care centers to ensure timely access to high-quality, patient-focused care.

Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center (PHSC), a division of Premier Orthopaedics, has been nationally recognized for more than 50 years for its specialized care of the hand, wrist, elbow, arm, and shoulder. Our fellowship-trained surgeons and certified Hand and Occupational Therapists collaborate to provide seamless care—from diagnosis and treatment to post-operative and rehabilitative recovery. With 14 convenient locations across Pennsylvania and New Jersey, PHSC offers advanced, integrated care to restore function, mobility, and quality of life for patients with upper extremity conditions.