Research Associate

Research Associate

locations

US Remote

time type

Full time

job requisition id

R1181

BASIC FUNCTION

Responsible for researching and understand websites and reference materials regarding the healthcare system; provide information to nurses regarding providers, eldercare, nursing homes and other  requested information; respond to member requests by providing specific resources and options; track cases and follow-up with members and providers in a timely manner

MAJOR JOB ACCOUNTABILITIES

Research Functions – Research and understand websites and reference materials regarding the healthcare system ensuring adherence to department and corporate policies and procedures

• Research and document request information (e.g., primary care physicians, dentists, etc.)
• Identify appropriate benefit plans for benefit offerings
• Provide information to advocates regarding providers, eldercare, nursing homes and other  requested information
• Respond to member requests by providing specific resources and options
• Enter all required documentation into the system and ensure its accuracy
• Ensure research results are compiled in a user friendly format for members to review and respond
• Track cases and follow-up with members and providers in a timely manner
• Exercise exceptional customer service skills in an effort to optimize each contact with the member
• Ensure that calls are processed in strict adherence to established policies, procedures, quality standards as well as applicable federal laws and regulations
• Know and support approved departmental and corporate policies and procedures relating to benefit issues
• Ensure policies and procedures are in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, including the privacy of employee health information in compliance with federal and state laws such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) and Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 (COBRA)

Healthcare System Research Assistance - Assist in resolving routine research issues by identifying issue(s) and researching in a timely manner

*Follow research through until resolution

*Document all issues thoroughly maintaining department files or appropriate system

*Continuously evaluate the status of all work efforts, ensuring all tasks are prioritized to assist in providing timely and quality services

*Assist in monitoring issue trends, escalating such trends to supervisor to determine appropriate actions necessary to eliminate future occurrences and improve service levels

Team Interfaces/Customer Service - Establish and maintain a professional relationship with

internal/external customers, team members and department contacts

* Cooperate with team members to meet goals or to complete tasks

* Provide quality customer service that exceeds customer expectations and improves level of

service being provided

* Treat all internal/external customers, team members and department contacts with

dignity/respect

* Escalate to supervisor any situation outside the employee's control that could adversely impact

the services being provided

Related Duties as Assigned - -

* The job description documents the general nature and level of work but is not intended to be a

comprehensive list of all activities, duties, and responsibilities required of job incumbents

* Consequently, job incumbents may be asked to perform other duties as required

* Also note, that reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities

to perform the functions outlined above

* Please contact your local Employee Relations representative to request a review of any such accommodations

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Applicant for this job will be expected to meet the following minimum qualifications.

Education

* High School Diploma or G.E.D.   

* Associates degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in business

administration, liberal arts, healthcare management, or a related field preferred.

Experience

* Minimum of one year healthcare experience preferred

Other

* Basic knowledge of MS Word, Excel, and Web Navigation required

* Must score acceptably on job related testing

* Ability to pass standardized interview

* Based on assignment may need to be bilingual in English, Spanish, etc.

A successful incumbent in the job will be able to demonstrate the following skills and abilities:

• Strong communication (verbal and written) skills and phone etiquette
• Ability to provide requested research or information to physicians’ offices, hospitals, insurance companies and nurses
• Highly effective listening skills
• Strong problems solving/issue resolution skills
• Excellent customer service and customer resolution skills
• Organizational and administrative skills including follow-up on issues and the ability to multitask.
• Ability to work in a team environment

Why Health Advocate? 

At Health Advocate, we don’t just support our members—we support you. Here’s what you’ll get: 

Work from home opportunity

Comprehensive Training & Equipment: We set you up for success with thorough onboarding, ongoing development, and all necessary work equipment. 
Career Growth & Development: Whether you’re starting fresh or looking to expand your expertise, we provide mentorship, training, and growth opportunities to help you advance. 
Competitive Pay & Benefits: We offer a starting hourly rate of $15.00, plus robust medical, dental, vision, tuition assistance, a 401(k) with company match, PTO, and paid holidays. 
A Culture of Purpose & Impact: You’ll be part of a team that values empathy, innovation, and a shared mission to simplify healthcare for all. 

Your Next Move 

Are you ready to make a difference and become a trusted advocate for those navigating their healthcare benefits? Apply today and take the first step toward joining a team that believes in the power of compassion, knowledge, and service. 

Physical Requirements:
This position is primarily sedentary, requiring prolonged sitting while performing administrative tasks. The role involves extensive use of a computer for typing, mouse navigation, and reading information on a screen for extended periods. Frequent phone use is required for communication with team members, clients, or external parties. Essential physical functions include fingering, grasping, pulling hand-over-hand, and repetitive motions necessary for navigating software, entering data, and interacting with electronic documents.

Mental and Cognitive Requirements:
The role requires strong concentration, attention to detail, and the ability to complete tasks accurately. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are essential to address issues that may arise in day-to-day duties. Effective verbal and written communication skills are needed for responding to inquiries and collaborating with others.

Work Environment:
This position is fully remote and requires a home office environment with appropriate lighting, a computer, and phone access. The workspace should be free from distractions to ensure effective focus and productivity during work hours.