Jim O'Connor
Director of Patient Financial Services
Professional Overview
Jim O'Connor is an experienced healthcare executive with a strong background in patient financial services. As the Director of Patient Financial Services at Cambridge Health Alliance, he oversees the strategic management and operational excellence of the organization's revenue cycle and patient billing operations. With his industry expertise and commitment to financial optimization, Jim plays a crucial role in enhancing the patient experience and ensuring the financial sustainability of the healthcare system.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Director of Patient Financial Services at Cambridge Health Alliance, Jim is responsible for leading a team of financial professionals in managing all aspects of the revenue cycle, including patient registration, insurance verification, claims processing, and patient account resolution. Under his guidance, the department has achieved significant improvements in key performance metrics, such as reduced days in accounts receivable and increased first-pass claims acceptance rates. Jim's strategic vision and data-driven decision-making have enabled the organization to optimize revenue and enhance the overall financial health of the system.
Career Progression
Prior to his current role, Jim served as the interim Director of Patient Financial Services at an independent consulting firm, where he provided strategic guidance and interim leadership to healthcare organizations seeking to improve their revenue cycle management practices. Additionally, he has served as a member of the Board of Governors at the Shriner Burns Hospital, leveraging his deep understanding of healthcare finance to contribute to the hospital's long-term success.
Academic Background
Jim holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of New Hampshire, with a focus on finance and accounting. His educational background has provided him with a strong foundation in financial management principles, which he has successfully applied throughout his career in the healthcare industry.
Areas of Expertise
- Revenue cycle management
- Patient financial services
- Healthcare financial optimization
- Data analytics and performance management
- Cross-functional team leadership
- Strategic planning and implementation
Professional Impact
Under Jim's leadership, the Patient Financial Services department at Cambridge Health Alliance has achieved significant improvements in key performance indicators, including a 12% reduction in days in accounts receivable and a 15% increase in first-pass claims acceptance rates. These achievements have contributed to the overall financial stability and sustainability of the healthcare system, enabling it to continue providing high-quality care to the communities it serves.
Conclusion
With his extensive experience in patient financial services, Jim O'Connor is a respected leader in the healthcare industry. His ability to drive operational excellence, leverage data-driven insights, and foster collaborative working relationships makes him a valuable asset to Cambridge Health Alliance. As the Director of Patient Financial Services, Jim remains committed to advancing the organization's financial goals while enhancing the patient experience and contributing to the overall success of the healthcare system.
