Referral Assistant - Intern

Position Summary:

The Referral Assistant Intern is an entry-level opportunity designed for individuals interested in gaining hands-on experience in healthcare administration, patient coordination, and referral management within a nonprofit community healthcare organization. This role provides practical training and work experience while supporting referral processes, administrative operations, and patient service functions in a healthcare setting.

The intern will work closely with referral coordinators, providers, and administrative staff to learn healthcare referral procedures, patient communication, and office operations. No prior healthcare experience is required; training will be provided.

Essential Functions:

Assist with coordinating patient referrals to specialty providers and community resources Help gather and organize referral documentation and medical records Support appointment scheduling and referral follow-up activities Assist with verifying patient demographic and insurance information Answer and direct incoming phone calls professionally Communicate with patients, provider offices, and internal departments regarding referral status updates Assist with maintaining accurate patient and referral records within electronic systems Support scanning, filing, and electronic document management tasks Help track referral requests and ensure documentation is complete Respond professionally to patient questions and requests Maintain confidentiality of patient and organizational information in accordance with HIPAA guidelines Participate in training sessions, team meetings, and professional development opportunities Perform other administrative and patient support duties as assigned

Learning Opportunities:

This internship is designed to provide practical exposure and professional development in the following areas:

Healthcare referral coordination and patient navigation Medical office and healthcare administrative operations Insurance verification and referral authorization processes Professional communication and customer service Electronic health record (EHR) systems and healthcare software Healthcare compliance, confidentiality, and HIPAA standards Time management, organization, and teamwork in a healthcare environmentQualificationsNo prior healthcare or office experience is required. Training and mentorship will be provided throughout the internship.

High school diploma, GED, or currently enrolled in a high school, college, or vocational program Interest in healthcare administration, public health, patient services, or nonprofit healthcare operations Basic computer and keyboarding skills Strong interpersonal and communication skills Positive attitude and willingness to learn Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality Strong organizational skills and attention to detail Dependable attendance and willingness to support a team environment

Physical Demands:

May sit for long periods of timeMust be able to see and hear within normal range with or without correction device(s)Dexterity and hand to eye coordination as normally associated with operating office equipment, computers and telephones

Work Environment:

Professional, fast-pace office work environment