Legal Assistant II at WVU Medicine: Your Path to a Rewarding Career

Role Overview

Are you a detail-oriented individual with a passion for law and healthcare? WVU Medicine is seeking a Legal Assistant II to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will play a vital part in supporting the Associate Collection Counsel (ACC) in the day-to-day legal collection activities of West Virginia United Health System (WVUHS) and its affiliated entities. Your primary responsibility will be to interpret and apply the financial policies of WVUHS entities, ensuring the financial viability of our organization. You will also correspond with patients to resolve their financial liabilities, adhering to all applicable statutes, rules, and regulations, including the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act (FDCPA).

This position requires excellent customer service, written, and oral communication skills. You will need to demonstrate a mature problem-solving attitude while dealing with interpersonal conflict, dissatisfied patients, and time constraints. If you are a proactive, organized, and compassionate individual with a strong work ethic, we encourage you to apply.

A Day in the Life of a Legal Assistant II

Here’s a glimpse into what your typical day might look like:

• Morning: Arrive at the Suncrest Towne Centre location and prepare for the day. Review your assigned patient accounts and prioritize tasks based on urgency and financial impact. Check for new correspondence and requests from patients and internal stakeholders.
• Patient Communication: Spend a significant portion of your day communicating with patients via phone, email, or mail. You will explain their financial obligations, answer questions about their bills, and negotiate payment arrangements. You'll need to be empathetic and understanding while also adhering to the FDCPA guidelines.
• Financial Policy Interpretation: Apply WVUHS financial policies to patient accounts, ensuring accurate billing and proper allocation of payments. You will research and resolve discrepancies, working with other departments as needed.
• Legal Support: Assist the Associate Collection Counsel in preparing legal documents, such as complaints and summonses. You will also maintain legal files and track deadlines.
• Afternoon: Continue working on patient accounts, focusing on those requiring more complex problem-solving. Respond to requests for information from internal stakeholders, such as financial services staff and nursing staff. Participate in team meetings to discuss best practices and address challenges.
• Compliance: Stay up-to-date on changes to healthcare regulations and collection laws. Ensure that all activities comply with the FDCPA and other applicable guidelines.

Why Morgantown, West Virginia?

Morgantown, West Virginia, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Home to West Virginia University, Morgantown is a vibrant college town with a thriving arts and culture scene. The city boasts a low cost of living, excellent schools, and a safe, family-friendly environment.

Beyond the city limits, you'll find stunning natural beauty, with opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. Morgantown is also conveniently located within driving distance of major metropolitan areas, such as Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C.

Working at WVU Medicine in Morgantown offers the chance to be part of a leading healthcare system while enjoying a high quality of life in a welcoming community.

Career Path

The Legal Assistant II position can serve as a stepping stone to a variety of career paths within WVU Medicine. With experience and further education, you could advance to roles such as:

• Senior Legal Assistant: Take on more complex legal tasks and responsibilities.
• Paralegal: Obtain a paralegal certification and assist attorneys with legal research, document preparation, and trial preparation.
• Healthcare Collections Manager: Oversee a team of collection specialists and manage the overall collection process.
• Compliance Officer: Ensure that WVU Medicine adheres to all applicable healthcare regulations and laws.
• Patient Financial Services Supervisor: Supervise the day-to-day operations of the patient financial services department.

Salary & Benefits

The estimated salary range for a Legal Assistant II at WVU Medicine in Morgantown, West Virginia, is between $32,000 and $48,000 per year. The actual salary will depend on your experience, qualifications, and the specific requirements of the position.

In addition to a competitive salary, WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
• Paid time off (PTO) for vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Retirement plan with employer matching contributions
• Life insurance
• Disability insurance (short-term and long-term)
• Flexible spending accounts (FSA) or health savings accounts (HSA)
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Tuition reimbursement or assistance for continuing education
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee discounts on WVU Medicine services and products
• Wellness programs and resources
• On-site parking or transportation assistance

WVU Medicine Culture

WVU Medicine is committed to providing exceptional patient care in a supportive and collaborative environment. We value our employees and strive to create a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to contribute their best.

We are dedicated to diversity and inclusion and believe that a diverse workforce is essential to providing the best possible care to our patients. We offer opportunities for professional growth and development and encourage our employees to pursue their career goals.

How to Apply

To apply for the Legal Assistant II position at WVU Medicine, please click the "Apply" button located at the top of this page. You will be directed to our online application system, where you can create an account and submit your resume and cover letter. Please be sure to complete all sections of the application in full.

We look forward to receiving your application!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the minimum qualifications for this position?

   The minimum qualification is a high school diploma or equivalent.

2. Is prior experience required?

   One year of experience in collections or in a law firm is preferred.

3. What skills are important for success in this role?

   Excellent customer service, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential. You should also have a strong understanding of financial policies and procedures and be able to comply with healthcare regulations.

4. What is the work environment like at WVU Medicine?

   WVU Medicine offers a supportive and collaborative work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.

5. What is the dress code?

   The dress code is business casual.

6. Are there opportunities for advancement?

   Yes, WVU Medicine offers opportunities for advancement within the organization.

7. What is the hiring process like?

   The hiring process typically involves an application review, phone interview, and in-person interview.

8. What is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)?

   The FDCPA is a federal law that protects consumers from abusive, deceptive, and unfair debt collection practices.

9. What is HIPAA?

   HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) is a federal law that protects the privacy of patient health information.

10. What is the Suncrest Towne Centre like?

    Suncrest Towne Centre is a mixed-use development in Morgantown that offers a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It is conveniently located near WVU Medicine and provides a walkable and vibrant environment for employees.