The Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority (CIHA) is proud to announce the launch of a new department dedicated to identifying and securing alternative resources for patients. This initiative reflects CIHA’s ongoing commitment to responsible stewardship and ensuring that patients have access to comprehensive support and services.
This new department, Third Party Resources, replaces CIHA’s previous partnership with Resource Cooperation of America (RCA) and will offer a more localized and patient-focused approach. The department is led by Gwynne Wildcatt, Director of Accessibility, Resources, and Member Services, who brings extensive experience and dedication to the role. The team is conveniently located in the radiology registration area, providing easy access for both patients and staff.
The department’s mission is multifaceted, including the development and finalization of new policies, comprehensive education for staff and patients, and the exploration of innovative ways to provide resources to our patients. The dedication and hard work of this team are crucial to enhancing the support we offer to the community.
CIHA is excited about the positive impact this department will have on the community by enhancing the quality and accessibility of patient resources.
Meet the Team:
- Gwynne Wildcatt – Director of Accessibility, Resources, and Member Services, Contact: 828-497-9163 ext. 6276
- Nicole Ayers – ACA Coordinator/CAC, Contact: 828-497-9163 ext. 7525
- Trista Seagraves – ACA Coordinator, Contact: 828-497-9163 ext. 6328
- Tammy L. Gibby – Medicare Coordinator, Contact: 828-497-9163 ext. 6603
- Linda Ball-Hyder – Medicaid Coordinator, Contact: 828-497-9163 ext. 6867
Each member of the team has a specialized role to support patients in navigating healthcare options.
The ACA Coordinator is responsible for assisting patients in navigating the Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance marketplace. This position involves helping patients understand their insurance options, determining eligibility for subsidies, and ensuring they are enrolled in the most appropriate health plan.
Responsibilities:
Patient Education: Providing detailed information about the ACA, including coverage options, benefits, and how to apply for insurance through the marketplace.
Enrollment Assistance: Guiding patients through the enrollment process, helping them complete applications, and ensuring they meet all necessary deadlines.
Eligibility Assessment: Assessing patients’ eligibility for subsidies, Medicaid, or other assistance programs to ensure they receive the maximum benefits available.
Ongoing Support: Offering support throughout the year for any issues related to their health insurance, such as changes in income, family size, or coverage needs.
Collaboration: Working closely with other healthcare providers and departments to ensure comprehensive care and resource allocation for patients.
The Medicare Coordinator assists patients who are eligible for Medicare, providing guidance on enrollment, benefits, and coverage options. This position is essential for helping elderly patients and those with disabilities navigate the complexities of Medicare.
Responsibilities:
Enrollment Guidance: Assisting eligible patients with the Medicare enrollment process, including understanding the different parts of Medicare (Part A, Part B, Part C, and Part D).
Coverage Explanation: Providing clear information about what is covered under Medicare, including hospital insurance, medical insurance, and prescription drug coverage.
Benefit Maximization: Helping patients choose the best Medicare plan for their needs, ensuring they maximize their benefits and minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Claims Assistance: Assisting patients with filing Medicare claims, resolving billing issues, and understanding their Medicare statements.
Education: Offering ongoing education about changes in Medicare policies, coverage options, and any new programs or benefits available.
Coordination of Care: Working with healthcare providers to coordinate services covered by Medicare, ensuring patients receive comprehensive and integrated care.
The Medicaid Coordinator focuses on helping eligible patients enroll in and maintain Medicaid coverage. This role is crucial in ensuring that low-income individuals and families receive the healthcare benefits they are entitled to.
Responsibilities:
Eligibility Verification: Determining patients’ eligibility for Medicaid based on income, family size, and other criteria.
Application Assistance: Assisting patients in completing and submitting Medicaid applications, and helping them understand the documentation requirements.
Benefit Explanation: Educating patients about the benefits and services covered under Medicaid, and how to access these services.
Renewal Support: Helping patients with the renewal process to ensure continuous coverage, addressing any issues that may arise during re-enrollment.
Problem Resolution: Addressing any problems or concerns related to Medicaid coverage, including denials or changes in eligibility status.
Interdepartmental Coordination: Coordinating with other departments to ensure patients receive the necessary medical services and support.
For more information, please contact the Third Party Resource department directly or visit Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority.