Spotlight on: Marisol Luna, Patient Financial Counselor
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The health insurance landscape has undergone sweeping and dramatic changes in recent years, often causing confusion and anxiety for patients. When the diagnosis is cancer, the team at The Harold Leever Regional Cancer Center wants to reduce that anxiety by providing support and guidance to patients undergoing radiation therapy who are navigating the sometimes-complex world of healthcare costs and coverages. Marisol Luna, Leever’s Patient Financial Counselor, does just that.
“I work with our patients, doctors, and insurance companies to be sure that everything is in place in advance, making each of their visits a little less stressful,” said Marisol, who speaks both English and Spanish. “I am also often the middleman between patients and billing departments. I can help with the communication, taking that burden off the patient.”
Throughout her 15 years in the healthcare industry, Marisol has always worked in high-contact, patient-centered roles. It is in her current position at the Leever Cancer Center, however, that Marisol has been able to help patients the most.
“It is a different level of care — a different level of interaction with our patients,” noted Marisol. “Knowing that they will leave my office with a smile because they don’t have to worry about the financial piece is very rewarding.”
At their first visit to the Leever Cancer Center, all patients and family members have the opportunity to meet with Marisol. Patients may also request to meet with her at a time that is convenient for them. Marisol communicates with doctors and other staff members after the patient’s first visit to learn more about their prescribed course of treatment, then works with insurance companies on approvals and coverage. If patients choose not to meet with Marisol, she will still communicate with their physicians to make sure that, from a financial
perspective, everything is in place for every patient.
“We see all patients,” explained Marisol, “not just those with insurance. We will work with patients to determine if they qualify for any kind of financial assistance to help with the cost of treatment.”
Recently, Marisol helped a patient secure insurance coverage from a former employer. Her knowledge and persistence secured coverage for the patient through the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, commonly known as COBRA. COBRA requires most businesses with group health plans to offer employees the opportunity to temporarily continue their coverage after leaving their employment. Her focus is on providing patients with the best possible care, with the least amount of stress and worry.
“Patients should know that I always have a sympathetic ear and that my door is always open,” said Marisol, “even if they just want to stop by and say hello."