Role Description
The Physician Advisor provides physician-to-physician reviews, clinical guidance, education, and escalation support while promoting evidence-based practices and appropriate resource utilization.
Key Responsibilities
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Conduct physician-to-physician reviews for medical necessity, level of care, and denial prevention/appeals
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Support utilization review and case management teams with complex clinical decision-making
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Ensure appropriate admission status determinations (inpatient vs. observation) in alignment with CMS and payer guidelines
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Provide clinical oversight related to length of stay, care progression, and discharge planning
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Ensure adherence to CMS Conditions of Participation, Medicare regulations, and payer policies
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Support compliance with medical necessity criteria (InterQual, MCG, or equivalent)
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Assist with audit preparedness and response, including RAC, MAC, and commercial payer audits
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Partner with HIM/CDI teams to improve documentation quality and clinical accuracy
Education & Physician Engagement
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Serve as a trusted peer resource to attending physicians and advanced practice providers
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Educate medical staff on regulatory requirements, utilization best practices, and documentation standards
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Support change management initiatives related to clinical operations and compliance
Qualifications
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MD or DO with an active, unrestricted medical license
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Board-certified or board-eligible in a recognized specialty
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Clinical practice experience in an acute care or relevant healthcare setting
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Strong knowledge of utilization management, medical necessity, and payer regulations
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Excellent communication skills with the ability to conduct peer-to-peer discussions
Preferred
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Prior experience as a Physician Advisor, Medical Director, or in Utilization Review
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Familiarity with CMS guidelines, InterQual, MCG, and denial management processes
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Experience working with case management, CDI, HIM, or revenue cycle teams
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Experience in a remote or consulting healthcare environment
Requirements
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Physician-to-physician negotiation and collaboration
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Clinical judgment balanced with regulatory and financial awareness
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Data-driven decision-making
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Ability to influence without authority
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Strong written and verbal communication
Location
Short Hills, New Jersey (Remote)
Department
CUR
Employment Type
Contractor
Minimum Experience
Experienced