Admitting Interviewer

Education and Training: High school

Salary: Median—$11.94 per hour

Employment Outlook: Good

Definition and Nature of the Work

Admitting interviewers are also known as admitting clerks or patient representatives. They are usually the first employees that patients meet when entering a hospital. Admitting interviewers gather information that is required for patients' admission to the hospital and sign patients in to the hospital. They explain the hospital's rates, policies, and procedures to patients and to those who bring patients to the hospital. Admitting interviewers arrange for new patients to be taken to their rooms. They enter this information into the hospital's computer system, keeping careful records for each patient.

Education and Training Requirements

Applicants should have a high school diploma. Courses in math, business, and word processing are important. Experience in other clerical jobs is useful. Job applicants who have worked as volunteers in a hospital or who can speak a language in addition to English may also be preferred. Admitting interviewers generally learn about hospital forms and procedures on the job.

Getting the Job

You can apply directly to hospital personnel offices. You can also check newspaper want ads and job banks on the Internet. Private employment agencies or your state employment office may list openings.

Advancement Possibilities and Employment Outlook

With further education and experience, admitting interviewers can advance to the position of admitting officer. Admitting officers supervise the work of admitting interviewers.

The employment outlook for admitting interviewers is good. Health care facilities are expected to expand the role of admitting interviewers. In addition, the number of job openings for admitting interviewers is expected to grow as the population grows older and makes increasing numbers of visits to hospitals.

Working Conditions

Admitting interviewers come into contact with all types of people. Aside from patients, relatives, and visitors, they deal with doctors, nurses, and other hospital workers. The atmosphere is usually quiet and friendly. At times, however, admitting interviewers must deal with patients and relatives who are upset. Admitting interviewers must be tactful when asking personal questions and must be able to handle tense situations. Admitting interviewers usually work forty hours a week, and may work weekends and night shifts. Part-time positions are often available.

Where to Go for More Information

American Hospital Association
325 7th St. NW
Washington, DC 20004-2802
(202) 638-1100
http://www.aha.org/aha

National Health Council
1730 M St. NW, Ste. 500
Washington, DC 20036
(202) 785-3910
http://www.nationalhealthcouncil.org

Earnings and Benefits

Earnings vary depending on location and experience. Median hourly earnings in May 2004 were $11.94. Benefits generally include paid vacations and holidays as well as health insurance.