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Job description
Financial Counselor (Lake City)
Location: Gainesville, FL
Pay: $17.32/hr | Non-Exempt
Why Choose Meridian?
For over 50 years, Meridian Healthcare has been a trusted provider of compassionate care for individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges. With service centers across 13 counties in North Central Florida, we are committed to transforming lives and communities from the inside out.
We live by our core values: Hope, Empathy, Accountability, Resilience, and Teamwork (H.E.A.R.T.). If these values resonate with you, we invite you to become part of our dedicated and mission-driven team.
About the Role
At Meridian, we believe access to care begins with removing financial and insurance-related barriers that may prevent individuals from receiving the services they need. As a Financial Counselor, you will play a critical role in supporting clients, clinicians, and operational teams by ensuring insurance coverage is verified, authorizations are secured, and financial responsibilities are clearly communicated.
In this important position, you will work closely with clients, insurance payers, referral sources, and clinical staff to facilitate timely access to treatment while supporting accurate reimbursement and revenue cycle operations. Through your attention to detail, customer service skills, and commitment to excellence, you will help create a positive client experience while contributing to Meridian's mission of improving the lives of individuals and families throughout our communities.
What You Will Do
Verify patient insurance eligibility and benefits in accordance with program and payer requirements
Conduct insurance verification and determine coverage for services prior to treatment
Assist clients with financial counseling and explanation of financial responsibilities
Facilitate eligibility determination and enrollment assistance when appropriate
Request initial insurance authorizations and retrospective authorizations as required
Coordinate with clinical teams, referral sources, and insurance providers to ensure seamless access to care
Maintain accurate and complete client financial and insurance documentation
Assist with payment arrangements and collection activities in accordance with organizational policies
Monitor authorization requirements and ensure timely submission of supporting documentation
Communicate effectively with clients regarding insurance coverage, benefits, and financial obligations
Ensure compliance with payer, regulatory, and organizational guidelines
Support efficient patient flow through timely processing of insurance and financial information
Maintain confidentiality of client, financial, and healthcare information
Promote positive working relationships with internal departments and external payer representatives
Perform other duties as assigned to support departmental and organizational goals
What We're Looking For High School Diploma required
Two (2) to five (5) years of experience in insurance eligibility, verification, or a related healthcare revenue cycle function preferred
Experience working within a healthcare, behavioral health, medical office, or insurance environment preferred
Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered
Knowledge of insurance benefits, authorization processes, and payer requirements preferred
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams
Strong customer service, organizational, and communication skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail
Valid Florida driver's license meeting company driving requirements may be required based on assigned work location
Minimum typing speed of 35 CWPM preferred
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Knowledge of medical insurance, payer guidelines, eligibility verification, and authorization processes
Understanding of healthcare billing, reimbursement, and revenue cycle operations
Ability to analyze insurance information and identify coverage limitations or eligibility concerns
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively with clients, staff, and external partners
Ability to explain financial information in a professional and compassionate manner
Strong organizational skills and ability to maintain accurate records
Ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and healthcare information systems
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment when handling sensitive information
Strong attention to detail and commitment to providing exceptional customer service
Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.
Why You'll Love Working Here Competitive Pay & Incentives
Work-Life Balance: Generous PTO for vacation, sick time, and holidays
Comprehensive Benefits: Multiple health plans, dental, vision, life insurance, and long-term disability
Retirement Planning: 403(b) with up to 8% company match after 7 years
Growth & Development: Tuition reimbursement, career advancement pathways, and Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility
Wellness & Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness incentives, and mental health resources
Inclusive Culture: Supportive, team-oriented environment with employee events and recognition
Additional Perks: Cell phone discounts, travel reimbursement, LegalShield, pet insurance, and more
Make a Difference
Join a team dedicated to helping individuals access the care they need by removing financial and administrative barriers to treatment. Your work will directly support client access, revenue cycle success, and operational excellence while helping Meridian continue its mission of improving lives and strengthening communities.
Apply today and start your Meridian career.
For information on Florida's Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse and screening requirements, visit:
Meridian is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all qualified applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.
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Worksite address
lake city, FL, 32024, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.