Prior Authorization Specialist

Polaris Pharmacy Services•Des Plaines, IL

8d•$20 - $23

About The Position

At Polaris Pharmacy Services, we’re more than a pharmacy — we’re a dedicated partner in care, transforming how patients experience long-term, post-acute, correctional, PACE, and specialty pharmacy services. As industry leaders, we’re raising the bar for quality and coordination across all sites of care, ensuring every patient receives seamless, compassionate, and expert support. Founded in 2015, Polaris is proud to be locally and independently owned, with a growing national footprint. Our team thrives in a mission-driven environment where innovation meets purpose, and every role contributes to making a real impact. We offer more than just a job — we provide competitive pay, robust benefits, and genuine opportunities for career advancement. If you're passionate about shaping the future of pharmacy and making a difference in the lives of those who need it most, we invite you to grow with us. JOB SUMMARY: The Prior Authorization Specialist is responsible for managing and identifying a portfolio of rejected pharmacy claims to ensure maximum payer reimbursement and timely billing to eliminate financial risks to Polaris and their customers. The Prior Authorization Specialist must be responsive and courteous when addressing our customers’ needs. Successful Specialists are dedicated to meeting the expectations and requirements of the position; understanding customer information and using it to improve products and services we deliver; talking and acting with customers in mind; establishing and maintaining effective relationships with co-workers and customers, thus gaining our customers’ trust and respect.

Requirements

Able to read, write, speak, and understand the English language
Able to retain a large amount of information and apply that knowledge to related situations
Able to work in a fast-paced environment
Basic computer knowledge skills required
Basic math and analytical skills
Experience with alpha-numeric data entry
Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook required
Customer Service
Results-oriented
Good organization/Attention to detail
Reliable
Problem solver
Able to work various shifts and days
Adaptability to an ever-changing environment
High School diploma or equivalent required
Minimum of one (1) or more years working as a pharmacy technician in a retail environment preferred (long-term care pharmacy preferred)

Nice To Haves

Framework LTC & General computer knowledge & 10-key Number Entry preferred

Responsibilities

Manage and identify a portfolio of rejected pharmacy claims to ensure maximum payer reimbursement and timely billing to eliminate financial risks to Polaris and their customers
Research, analyze and appropriately resolve rejected claims by working with national Medicare D plans, third party insurance companies, and all state Medicaid plans to ensure maximum payer reimbursement adhering to critical deadlines
Ensure approval of claims by performing appropriate edits and/or reversals to ensure maximum payer reimbursement
Contact providers and/or facility contacts as necessary to obtain additional information
Monitor and resolve revenue at risk associated with payer set up, billing, rebilling, and reversal processes
Work as a team to identify, document, communicate, and resolve payer/billing trends and issues
Complete, communicate, and submit prior authorizations forms in a timely manner
Support training needs
Prepare and maintain reports and records for processing
Perform other tasks as assigned.
Follow all applicable government regulations, including HIPAA
Comply with departmental policies regarding safety, attendance, and dress code
Overtime, holidays, and weekends may be required and/or expected
Conduct job responsibilities in accordance with the standards set out in the Company’s Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, its policies and procedures, the Corporate Compliance Agreement, applicable federal and state laws, and applicable professional standards
Other duties as assigned; Job duties may vary depending on business needs