Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Dreama Akers

Christiansburg

Summary

Dynamic Referral Coordinator at Carilion with expertise in pre-authorizations and insurance verification. Proven ability to enhance patient scheduling efficiency and streamline referral processes. Recognized for critical thinking and attention to detail, successfully managing multiple projects while ensuring compliance with HIPAA regulations. Committed to delivering exceptional patient care and support.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience

Work History

Referral Coordinator

Carilion
Roanoke
08.2025 - Current

Facilitated insurance approvals for medical procedures and surgeries. Processed authorizations efficiently to support surgical and procedure scheduling.

HAA

Carilion
01.2024 - 08.2025
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
  • Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
  • Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions, and make decisions.
  • Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently.
  • Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment.
  • Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills while managing multiple projects.
  • Assisted with obtaining insurance authorizations for imaging and surgical procedures. Facilitated communication between patients and providers regarding authorization status. Supported scheduling of imaging and surgeries based on authorized coverage.
  • Managed scheduling and inputting of referrals to streamline patient intake processes.

Optometrist Assistant

Johnson & Curran
Christiansburg, VA
06.2023 - 11.2023
  • Managed administrative duties with phone reception, appointment scheduling and payment processing.
  • Performed ancillary testing when ordered by optometrist and thoroughly explained procedures to patients.
  • Collaborated with optometry staff to reach individual and team goals.
  • Instructed patients on contact lens insertion and removal and lens care guidelines.
  • Assisted with insurance questions, eligibility, and prior authorizations of medications and glasses.
  • Filled and dispensed eyeglass prescriptions, fitting frames, lenses and contact lenses for comfort and convenience.
  • Input patient information and exam findings into electronic medical records system to facilitate accurate record-keeping.
  • Operated and maintained lensometers, refraction units, auto-refractors, and visual field analyzers for patient testing.
  • Supported a high standard of care by preparing examination rooms with necessary supplies before each appointment.
  • Enhanced practice efficiency by maintaining accurate electronic medical records for all patients.
  • Contributed to practice growth by effectively marketing services and products to new and existing patients.
  • Strengthened relationships with returning patients through personalized attention to individual needs during visits.
  • Implemented office protocols to ensure compliance with health regulations and safety standards.
  • Assisted with dilating patients or using eye medications when directed by optometrist.

Optometrist Assistant

Dr. Teaters and Associates
Christiansburg, VA
01.2022 - 05.2023
  • Assisted in patient intake by collecting medical history and verifying insurance information.
  • Conducted preliminary vision tests, including visual acuity and ocular health assessments.
  • Educated patients on eyewear options and proper contact lens care procedures.
  • Managed appointment scheduling and maintained organized patient records for efficient workflow.
  • Supported optometrists during examinations by preparing instruments and assisting with procedures.
  • Facilitated communication between patients and staff to enhance overall patient experience.
  • Trained new staff on operational procedures, enhancing team efficiency and service quality.
  • Assisted with frame selection process, helping patients choose eyewear that best suited their lifestyle needs and preferences.
  • Improved patient experience by efficiently scheduling appointments and managing follow-up communications.
  • Contributed to a positive office environment by providing excellent customer service to patients both in-person and over the phone.
  • Maintained a clean and organized workspace, ensuring that all equipment was properly sanitized between uses.
  • Promoted eye health education, providing informative materials to patients on proper eyewear care and maintenance.
  • Ensured quality patient care by assisting optometrist with pre-testing, diagnostic testing, and contact lens fittings.
  • Maintained patient confidentiality at all times, adhering to HIPAA guidelines and protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access.
  • Provided crucial support during contact lens insertion/removal trainings for new wearers, ensuring proper technique was followed for optimal results.
  • Managed inventory levels of optical goods such as frames, lenses, and contact lens supplies, placing orders as needed to maintain adequate stock.
  • Conducted pretest procedures to gather data before exam and make eye appointments more efficient and productive.

Education

High School Diploma -

James Madison High School
Norcross, GA
11.2023

Skills

  • Pre-authorizations
  • Insurance verification
  • Medical terminology
  • Patient scheduling
  • Multi-line phone proficiency
  • Medical terminology knowledge
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Follow-up coordination
  • Accurate documentation
  • HIPAA regulations
  • Notetaking and documentation
  • Healthcare systems
  • Insurance precertification processes
  • Outbound calls
  • Appointment reminders
  • Referral tracking
  • Epic systems
  • Critical thinking
  • Electronic medical record software
  • Problem identification

Timeline

Referral Coordinator

Carilion
08.2025 - Current

HAA

Carilion
01.2024 - 08.2025

Optometrist Assistant

Johnson & Curran
06.2023 - 11.2023

Optometrist Assistant

Dr. Teaters and Associates
01.2022 - 05.2023

High School Diploma -

James Madison High School
Dreama Akers