Access Optimization Specialist

The Access Optimization Specialist serve as specialty-aligned operational expert who partners with departments to optimize scheduling workflows, visit types, templates, and Epic tools. They ensure consistent implementation and sustainability of access standards by bridging enterprise strategy with frontline operations. Their work is critical to reducing variation, maintaining governance, and driving measurable improvements in scheduling performance.

Essential Job Statements

Serve as the primary operational contact for assigned specialties, supporting scheduling workflow optimization and adoption of Epic tools.

Lead implementation and sustainment of access standards by aligning scheduling practices with enterprise strategy and specialty needs.

Identify and resolve operational barriers such as template inefficiencies, held time, and visit type inconsistencies through collaboration with clinical and design teams.

Provide targeted education and training to specialty leadership and frontline staff on scheduling tools, workflows, and best practices.

Monitor key performance indicators (e.g., held time, block release rates, self-scheduling penetration, deny rates) and escalate gaps proactively.

Support change management efforts to ensure successful adoption and long-term sustainability of scheduling improvements

Act as a subject matter expert (SME) for Epic scheduling tools, ensuring they are effectively embedded in daily operation

Facilitate visit type cleanup and optimization, including Fast Pass and self-scheduling configurations.

Drive consistency and reduce variation in scheduling practices across departments to maintain governance and improve patient access.

Performs other duties as assigned and/or participates in special projects to support the mission of VCUHS and department. Provide assistance to team members. Accept alternate assignments, as required.

Patient Population: N/A

Employment Qualifications

Required Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Health Information Management or related field.

Preferred Education: N/A

Licensing/ Certification

Licensure/Certification Required: N/A

Licensure/Certification Preferred: N/A

Minimum Qualifications

Years and Type of Required Experience: Two (2) plus years of EPIC Cadence design, build, and implementation experience, including provider template Optimization, Visit Type, department and provider build experience preferred

Project management experience required. Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.

Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required: N/A

Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Preferred: N/A

Working Conditions: Periods of high stress and fluctuating workloads may occur.  May be exposed to high noise levels and bright lights. May have periods of constant interruptions. May have periods of constant interruptions.

Physical Requirements

Physical Demands: Lifting/ Carrying (0-50 lbs.), Lifting/ Carrying (0-50 lbs.)

Work Position: Sitting, Walking, Standing

Additional Physical Requirements/ Hazards

Physical Requirements: Manual dexterity (eye/hand coordination), Finger Dexterity

Hazards: N/A

Mental/Sensory – Emotional

Mental/Sensory: Strong Recall, Reasoning, Problem Solving, Hearing, Speak Clearly, Write Legibly, Reading, Logical Thinking
Emotional: Fast pace environment, Steady Pace, Able to Handle Multiple Priorities, Able to Adapt to Frequent Change

EEO Employer/Disabled/Protected Veteran/41 CFR 60-1.4.