Referral Coordinator Job Description (Responsibilities, Skills, Duties, and Sample Template)

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If you’ve searched for a “referral coordinator job description,” chances are you’ve seen the same thing over and over again: bullet points, vague phrases, and copy-paste templates that could apply to just about any role.

The problem? These posts don’t actually help you attract great candidates. They’re not clear. They’re not compelling. And they say nothing about what makes your team worth joining.

And that’s a big problem—because the best candidates are selective. They’re not just looking for a paycheck. They want to know what they’re signing up for, what kind of people they’ll work with, and whether the mission is something they care about.

This article is going to help you fix that.

We’ll show you how to write a Referral Coordinator job post that actually attracts strong, thoughtful applicants—not just anyone with a resume. You’ll get two sample templates (one for experienced candidates, one for those you can train), a breakdown of why they work, a bad example to avoid, and bonus tips to stand out.

But before we dive in, here’s something to keep in mind:

✍️ A job post is not just a list of duties. It’s your first impression. And the difference between a great hire and a costly one often starts right here.

If you haven’t already, we highly recommend reading our ffull guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/   It’ll give you a deeper look at why most job posts fail—and how to make yours stand out.

Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.

What Does a Referral Coordinator Actually Do?

A Referral Coordinator helps patients or clients move smoothly through the care or service process by managing incoming and outgoing referrals. They’re the link between primary care providers, specialists, insurance companies, and patients—making sure everyone’s on the same page.

But this role is more than just paperwork.

A great referral coordinator combines attention to detail, clear communication, and compassion. They follow up on appointments, track authorizations, verify insurance, and ensure every referral is accurate, timely, and properly documented. They’re often the person calming anxious patients or resolving last-minute issues with providers.

In short:

They make sure people don’t fall through the cracks—and that care continues without unnecessary delays or confusion.

Whether in a clinic, hospital, or community health center, this role directly impacts the patient experience and helps the organization run more efficiently.

Two Great Referral Coordinator Job Description Templates

✅ Option 1: Job Description For Experienced Referral Coordinators

📌 Job Title: Referral Coordinator – Join the Patient Navigation Team at Riverbend Medical
💼 Type: Full-Time | On-Site | $20–$25/hour (Based on experience)
📍 Location: Chicago, IL
🕒 Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM

🎥 Hear From the Team
Before you scroll further, watch this short video from our hiring manager to hear what this role is really like:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link]

👋 Who We Are
Riverbend Medical is a growing, independent multi-specialty clinic serving over 40,000 patients annually in the Chicago area. We’re committed to delivering coordinated, high-quality care across primary care, women’s health, behavioral health, and specialty services. As we expand our patient navigation team, we’re looking for an experienced Referral Coordinator to ensure our patients get timely, seamless access to the care they need.

✨ What You’ll Be Doing

  • Coordinate incoming and outgoing referrals across more than 15 specialties

  • Communicate with insurance reps and providers to verify authorizations

  • Track appointments and follow-ups to prevent care gaps

  • Accurately document in our EMR system (Athenahealth)

  • Assist patients with scheduling questions and provide timely updates

🎯 What We’re Looking For

  • 1+ year experience in a referral coordination or medical admin role

  • Confident communicator, both written and verbal

  • Familiar with insurance workflows and EMR platforms

  • Calm under pressure and thrives in fast-paced environments

  • Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred

🎁 Perks & Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance (eligible after 60 days)

  • 401(k) with company match

  • Commuter benefits

  • Access to Riverbend’s wellness program (gym discounts, counseling support)

  • Paid holidays and 3 weeks PTO

🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You’ll be joining a close-knit team that plays a mission-critical role in patient care. At Riverbend, your work won’t go unnoticed—you’ll be empowered to take ownership of processes, speak up with ideas, and grow into leadership if that’s your goal. We promote from within and believe in rewarding consistency and initiative.

📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to evaluate candidates based on their actual skills—not just resumes. This short evaluation gives you a fair shot and helps us focus on the right fit from day one.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]

🌱 Option 2:Job Description For Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train Candidates

📌 Job Title: Referral Coordinator Trainee – Start Your Career with Greenstone Family Health
💼 Type: Full-Time | On-Site | $16–$18/hour
📍 Location: Austin, TX
🕒 Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

🎥 Watch This First
Here’s a short video from our clinic director explaining what it’s like to work at Greenstone and how this role fits into our mission:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link]

👋 Who We Are
Greenstone Family Health is a nonprofit community health center in East Austin focused on serving underinsured families with compassion and dignity. We offer primary care, pediatrics, and behavioral health support to thousands of families each year. As our patient base grows, we’re hiring a Referral Coordinator Trainee—someone eager to learn, ready to grow, and aligned with our mission of healthcare access for all.

📚 What You’ll Be Doing

  • Learn to manage patient referrals and follow-up workflows

  • Assist the admin team with scheduling and records management

  • Communicate with patients and specialists about next steps

  • Receive training on eClinicalWorks (our EMR platform)

  • Help ensure no referral slips through the cracks

🧠 What We’re Looking For

  • Reliable, organized, and quick to learn

  • Warm communicator—both with patients and teammates

  • Strong multitasker and detail-oriented

  • No healthcare experience required—we’ll train you

  • Spanish-speaking is a bonus

🎁 Perks & Benefits

  • Health, dental, and vision coverage (starts after 90 days)

  • Annual tuition reimbursement for continuing education

  • Paid time off (10 days first year + holidays)

  • Access to mental wellness and financial coaching programs

  • Monthly team lunches + annual staff retreats

🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This is more than an entry-level job—it’s a stepping stone into healthcare administration. You’ll receive hands-on mentorship, cross-train with other departments, and grow into a full Referral Coordinator role. If you’ve ever wanted a mission-driven job that offers real development and community impact, this is your chance.

📥 How to Apply
We believe in hiring fairly and transparently. That’s why we use WorkScreen to evaluate applicants based on potential—not just what’s on a resume.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]

WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results

Why These Referral Coordinator Job Posts Work

Each job description above wasn’t just written to fill space—it was written to attract the right kind of candidate. Here’s why they stand out (and why generic job posts fall flat):

✅ The Job Titles Are Clear, Specific, and Purpose-Driven

Instead of saying something vague like “Referral Coordinator Needed,” we clarified:

  • The company they’ll work for (e.g., Riverbend Medical, Greenstone Family Health)

  • The team or mission (e.g., “Join the Patient Navigation Team” or “Start Your Career with…”)

This sets expectations, builds interest, and increases relevance in job board searches.

✅ The Introductions Feel Human—Not Robotic

Each post begins with a warm intro or a video link that creates a personal connection. This invites the applicant into the role and shows them what they’re walking into—not just what they’ll be doing.

✅ They Include Video from a Hiring Manager or Leader

Adding a Loom or YouTube video before the “Who We Are” section makes the post feel real. Candidates don’t just read about your company—they see it, hear the voice behind it, and begin to trust it.

✅ “About Us” Sections Are Company-Specific

No generic filler here. Each description tells a brief story about the company, who they serve, and why the role matters. This builds emotional connection and helps candidates picture themselves contributing to a real mission.

✅ The Responsibilities Are Written Like Impact Statements

Instead of just listing tasks, each line shows the impact of the work:

  • “Track appointments and follow-ups to prevent care gaps”

  • “Help ensure no referral slips through the cracks”

That language reinforces purpose, not just process.

✅ The Requirements Are Realistic and Inclusive

We clearly state what’s required, and what’s preferred or trainable. This helps candidates self-assess without self-eliminating unnecessarily—and widens your talent pool to include high-potential applicants.

✅ Perks and Benefits Are Separated for Clarity

Most posts merge everything into one block—but splitting them out helps serious applicants skim quickly and understand what they’ll get if they join you.

✅ The “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Section Is a Soft Sell

This part makes the job feel worth the time and effort to apply for. We highlight:

  • Growth opportunities

  • Company culture

  • Supportive leadership

  • A sense of ownership in the role

It’s not fluff—it’s the emotional pitch every strong job post needs.

✅ The Hiring Process is Transparent and Respectful

We mention WorkScreen and explain why we use it: to evaluate based on skill, not just resume polish. That tells applicants we take their time seriously and gives them confidence in a fair process.

Bad Referral Coordinator Job Description Example (And Why It Fails)

Job Title: Referral Coordinator
Company: ABC Health Group
Location: Remote
Job Type: Full-Time

Job Summary
ABC Health Group is seeking a Referral Coordinator to manage referrals and support administrative functions. The candidate will be responsible for coordinating with physicians and patients to ensure proper referral processing.

Responsibilities

  • Coordinate incoming and outgoing referrals

  • Schedule appointments and communicate with providers

  • Maintain accurate records

  • Perform general administrative tasks as needed

Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent

  • 2+ years of experience in a similar role

  • Strong organizational skills

  • Familiarity with healthcare systems

How to Apply
Email your CV and cover letter to hr@abchealthgroup.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

🚨 What’s Wrong With This Job Post?

Let’s break down why this doesn’t work—and why it would likely get ignored by the exact candidates you want to hire.

❌ The Job Title is Vague

“Referral Coordinator” is technically correct—but it doesn’t say where, why, or for whom. There’s no emotional hook or signal of what makes this job unique. On a job board, this title blends into hundreds of others.

❌ The Introduction Feels Cold and Generic

There’s no personality, no mission, no human tone. You don’t learn who the company is or why the role matters. It reads like a formality.

❌ No Company Story or Culture

There’s zero mention of what it’s like to work at ABC Health Group, what kind of team you’d join, or how the company treats its employees. For mission-driven candidates (which is most in healthcare), this is a red flag.

❌ No Salary, No Perks

Failing to include salary or benefits signals a lack of transparency. Serious applicants are unlikely to apply when they can’t tell if the role fits their needs—or if the company values their time.

❌ Responsibilities Are Generic and Impersonal

There’s no effort to describe the impact of the tasks. Anyone could have written this list. It doesn’t help the candidate understand the pace, expectations, or purpose of the work.

❌ The Hiring Process Feels Dismissive

Saying “only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is the fastest way to lose great applicants. It signals that the company doesn’t value communication or candidate experience.

❌ The CTA is Cold and Inconvenient

Emailing a resume and cover letter feels outdated and adds friction. There’s no effort to make the process smooth or fair—and no indication of what happens next after they apply.

Bonus Tips to Make Your Referral Coordinator Job Post Stand Out

🛡️ Add a Security & Privacy Notice

Job scams are everywhere—and top candidates are extra cautious. Adding a quick trust-building note can make a big difference.

✅ Example:

“We take the security and privacy of all job applicants very seriously. We will never ask for payment, banking details, or personal financial information during any part of the hiring process.”

This kind of notice instantly shows that your company is professional and trustworthy.

🌴 Mention Leave Days or Flex Time

Don’t just say “paid time off”—be specific. Candidates want to know how much rest they’ll get and whether your company values work-life balance.

✅ Example:

“Enjoy up to 15 days of PTO in your first year—including flex days you can use whenever you need a breather.”

🚀 Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities

Especially for entry-level roles, this one is key. People want to know there’s a path forward—not just a seat to fill.

✅ Example:

“We invest in your growth. From day one, you’ll get hands-on training, mentorship from senior staff, and access to free upskilling programs.”

🎥 Include a Short Loom or YouTube Video

This has become one of the most powerful ways to instantly elevate your job post. It doesn’t need to be polished—just real.

✅ Tips:

  • Have your hiring manager say why the role matters

  • Show your workspace or clinic briefly

  • Keep it under 90 seconds

  • Link it right before the “Who We Are” section

A face and voice builds trust. It makes your job feel real—not like a listing on a spreadsheet.

Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4

💬 Be Transparent About the Hiring Process

If you use WorkScreen (or any evaluation tool), say so—and explain why. Let applicants know what to expect.

✅ Example:

“We use WorkScreen to evaluate candidates based on skill—not just resumes. You’ll complete a short, structured assessment that gives you a fair shot and helps us focus on the best fit.”

These details might seem small—but they build real trust with applicants, especially top performers who have choices. Most companies skip these steps. If you include them, you stand out.

Should You Use AI to Write Your Referral Coordinator Job Post?

AI tools like ChatGPT, Jasper, or even built-in ATS generators might seem like a quick fix. Type in a job title, click a button, and boom—a full job description.

But here’s the truth:
If you rely on AI to do all the work without context, you’re going to end up with something bland, forgettable, and ultimately ineffective.

❌ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone

AI-generated posts often:

  • Use generic phrases with no emotion or specificity

  • Fail to reflect your actual company culture or tone

  • Attract low-effort applicants who are just spraying resumes

  • Make your brand sound like every other healthcare provider out there

A job post is a first impression. If yours reads like it was written by a robot—it probably was.

✅ How to Use AI the Right Way

AI can still be a helpful tool—if you give it the right ingredients.

Here’s how to prompt it effectively:

“Help me write a job post for our company, Greenstone Family Health.
We’re hiring a Referral Coordinator Trainee to support our growing patient base.
Our culture is mission-driven, community-focused, and supportive of early-career growth.
We want to attract candidates who are empathetic, organized, and eager to learn.
We offer benefits like paid training, PTO, wellness support, and tuition reimbursement.
We also use WorkScreen for fair skill-based evaluations.
Here are some rough notes I’ve written to get started: [paste notes].”

By giving it the role, tone, culture, and core details, you’re turning AI into a drafting assistant—not a content crutch.

Once it generates a draft, use your judgment:

  • Add human touches

  • Rework your “Why this role matters” section

  • Plug in real examples and mission language

  • Review for clichés or phrases that feel off-brand

🧠 Final Rule:

Use AI to shape and polish—not to speak for your company.
Because the best candidates can always tell the difference.

Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.

Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description?

✅ Option 1: Conversational Job Description Template (Culture-First Style)

📌 Job Title: Referral Coordinator for [Company Name]’s Patient Navigation Team
💼 Type: [Job Type] | [Work Arrangement] | [Salary Range]
📍 Location: [City, State]
🕒 Schedule: [e.g., Mon–Fri, 8 AM – 5 PM]

🎥 Meet the Hiring Manager
Watch this short video to hear what it’s like to work in this role and why it matters:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube link]

👋 Who We Are
At [Company Name], we believe in timely, compassionate care—and making sure no patient falls through the cracks. We serve [brief description of your patients or community]. As our team grows, we’re looking for a Referral Coordinator who can help us streamline care and deliver excellent experiences at every step.

✨ What You’ll Be Doing

  • Manage incoming and outgoing referrals

  • Track authorizations, schedule appointments, and follow up with patients

  • Communicate with providers, insurers, and internal care teams

  • Use our EMR system ([Insert system name]) to ensure accuracy and compliance

🎯 What We’re Looking For

  • [1+ year] in a referral coordination, medical admin, or scheduling role

  • Friendly, clear communicator

  • Organized and good under pressure

  • Comfortable with technology and multitasking

  • [Bilingual preferred, if applicable]

🎁 Perks & Benefits

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • PTO and paid holidays

  • 401(k) or retirement options

  • [Any additional unique benefits]

🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This isn’t just an admin job—it’s a mission-critical role. You’ll be the person keeping care moving forward, solving problems, and making sure patients feel supported. If you’re detail-oriented, people-first, and ready to grow—we’d love to meet you.

📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to keep our hiring process fair and skills-based. Complete your short evaluation here:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen link]

📑 Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format

📌 Job Title: Referral Coordinator
📍 Location: [City, State]
💼 Type: [Job Type]
💲 Salary Range: [Insert Salary Range]

🎥 Watch First
Here’s a quick message from the team explaining what you can expect in this role:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube link]

Job Brief
[Company Name] is hiring a Referral Coordinator to support our care team by managing incoming and outgoing referrals. This role plays a key part in ensuring patients receive timely, coordinated care from start to finish.

Key Responsibilities

  • Process and track referrals across departments and specialties

  • Communicate with healthcare providers, insurance companies, and patients

  • Verify insurance authorizations and eligibility

  • Maintain accurate records using [Insert EMR System]

  • Provide general administrative support as needed

Required Qualifications

  • [1–2 years] of experience in a referral or medical office role

  • Familiarity with EMR systems and healthcare processes

  • Detail-oriented and highly organized

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

  • Able to handle multiple tasks efficiently

🎁 Perks & Benefits

  • Health, dental, and vision coverage

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • [Include retirement plan, wellness benefits, etc.]

📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to evaluate candidates based on strengths—not just resumes. Start your evaluation here:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen link]

What Happens After You Write a Great Job Post? Let WorkScreen Handle the Rest

Writing a compelling job description is only half the battle. The next challenge? Sorting through the flood of applicants—and figuring out who’s actually qualified.

That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.

🔍 WorkScreen helps you:

✔ Quickly identify your most promising candidates

WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.

✔ Easily administer one-click skill tests

With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.

✔ Eliminate low-effort applications

WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.

✔ Hire based on strengths—not guesswork

By evaluating skills early in the process, you build a team that performs better from day one. No more over-reliance on resumes, gut instinct, or hours of manual screening.

Write a strong job post. Let WorkScreen do the rest.

FAQ

Beyond basic admin skills, a strong referral coordinator should have:

  • Attention to detail – to avoid errors in referrals and authorizations.

  • Clear communication – since they’ll coordinate between providers, patients, and insurers.

  • Multitasking ability – they’ll juggle calls, systems, and deadlines simultaneously.

  • Customer service mindset – patients often need clarity, reassurance, and timely updates.

  • Comfort with EMRs and digital tools – experience with systems like Athenahealth, eClinicalWorks, or Epic is often a plus.

  • A proactive approach – they need to anticipate delays or gaps and take ownership of follow-through.

These skills often matter more than certifications—especially in fast-paced care environments.

As of 2025, the average salary for a referral coordinator in the U.S. typically ranges from $18 to $25 per hour, or roughly $37,000 to $52,000 annually, depending on:

  • Location (urban vs. rural)

  • Type of facility (clinic, hospital, private practice, nonprofit)

  • Experience level

  • Bilingual or EMR-specific skills

Entry-level roles tend to start closer to $16–$18/hour, while experienced coordinators in high-demand areas can earn $26/hour or more.

No formal certification is required for most referral coordinator roles. However, some employers may prefer candidates with:

  • A medical administrative certificate

  • Familiarity with HIPAA and insurance terminology

  • Prior experience in a clinical or hospital environment

If you’re hiring for potential, it’s more important to assess the candidate’s ability to learn and communicate—skills that often outweigh formal training.

Referral coordinators play a behind-the-scenes role—but they have a direct impact on patient satisfaction. A great coordinator:

  • Prevents delays in care

  • Ensures patients aren’t lost in the system

  • Communicates clearly about next steps

  • Helps avoid insurance issues that cause frustration

Patients may not always know who handled their referral, but they’ll remember whether it was smooth or stressful.



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Author’s Details

Mike K.

Mike is an expert in hiring with a passion for building high-performing teams that deliver results. He specializes in streamlining recruitment processes, making it easy for businesses to identify and secure top talent. Dedicated to innovation and efficiency, Mike leverages his expertise to empower organizations to hire with confidence and drive sustainable growth.

Hire Easy. Hire Right. Hire Fast.

Stop wasting time on unqualified candidates. WorkScreen.io streamlines your hiring process, helping you identify top talent quickly and confidently. With automated evaluations , applicant rankings and 1-click skill tests, you’ll save time, avoid bad hires, and build a team that delivers results.

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