Health Systems Optimization Specialist

BCBSAZ is seeking a proactive, detail-oriented Health Systems Optimization Specialist to support clinic operations in Tucson with a focus on EHR / EMR system optimization, particularly Athena (preferred). This is a part-time, onsite role with potential for conversion to full-time. The ideal candidate will serve as a bridge between clinical staff and IT / systems teams, troubleshoot day-to-day tech issues, ensure data integrity, and support workflow improvements across care centers.

While Athena experience is highly preferred, candidates with strong experience in other EHR / EMR platforms (e.g., Epic, Cerner, eClinicalWorks) will be considered—provided they have EHR administration experience.

Key Responsibilities

Perform EHR administrative tasks : merge duplicate patient accounts, scrub appointments, conduct eligibility audits.

Validate and maintain accuracy of patient health data in the EHR.

Provide frontline tech support for common issues (Wi-Fi, printers, phones) and escalate to hardware / IT teams as needed.

Serve as primary liaison between Tucson-based clinical staff and Phoenix-based Systems / IT teams.

Support EHR training for new hires and existing staff; develop training materials and workflows.

Assist in testing, communication, and rollout of EHR updates, patches, and new features.

Document and optimize clinical workflows to align with best practices and regulatory standards (HIPAA, 42 CFR).

Collaborate on data integrity, reporting, and system integrations.

Travel occasionally between Tucson and Phoenix clinics.

Required Qualifications

High School Diploma or GED

3+ years of EHR / EMR system management & implementation experience

3+ years in business analysis, systems applications, or healthcare operations

1+ year of project management or implementation experience

EHR Certification (e.g., Epic, Cerner, or vendor-specific)

Strong communication (written & verbal) and interpersonal skills

Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Proactive problem-solver with ability to work independently in a location without local IT support

Must be onsite in Tucson as much as possible for team collaboration

Preferred Qualifications

Direct experience with Athena EHR

Bachelor's degree in Business, Healthcare Administration, IT, or related field

7+ years of EHR / EMR experience, especially in ambulatory or medical group settings

Experience training clinical staff on EHR use

Familiarity with change management and workflow optimization

Knowledge of Windows-based systems, MS Project, or Visio a plus