Meet Chris Washington | Senior Lead Patient Account Coordinator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chris Washington and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chris, what’s your definition for success?
As a seasoned Healthcare professional, my definition of success goes beyond just reaching the pinnacle of my field and gaining recognition as an expert in my area of expertise. Success, to me, is also about embracing fresh challenges and pushing the boundaries of my knowledge. It entails a continuous journey of learning and personal growth, actively seeking out novel opportunities to enhance my skills and broaden my experiences. Success means being open-minded, adaptable, and unafraid to take risks and explore uncharted territories. This is how I truly define and embrace success!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’ve been in the healthcare industry for more than 13 years now, and it’s been quite a journey. It all started back in 2011 when I joined Blue Cross Blue Shield as a provider service rep. Little did I know that this would be the beginning of my long and fulfilling career in healthcare.

As time went on, I found myself becoming more and more passionate about the administrative side of healthcare. I had the opportunity to learn about the entire revenue cycle, from the beginning to the end, both from the insurance side and the provider side. It was fascinating to see how everything worked together.

I didn’t stop there. I continued to climb the ladder of success in healthcare. After my year in provider service with Blue Cross Blue Shield, I became a claims analyst. From there, I took on the role of a manager at Wright and Phillips DME in Michigan, where I oversaw the Cpap supplies department. Unfortunately, the company was sold, and I found myself without a job.

But I didn’t let that setback stop me. I quickly found a new opportunity at Oakwood Hospital in their corporate department as a Senior Lead Rep over the diagnostic scheduling department. A few years later, Oakwood Hospital was acquired by Beaumont Hospital, and I decided to get back into the DME field. I became the Lead DME rep for Beaumont Hospitals.

However, I knew deep down that I wanted a change. It was then that my job informed me that I would have to start working weekends in March 2017. I realized that I wasn’t ready for that, so I started looking for jobs outside of my current state. That’s how I ended up in Atlanta, Georgia.

Since moving to Atlanta in 2017, I’ve had the privilege of meeting and working with incredibly successful individuals. From doctors to attorneys, I never imagined I would have the opportunity to build relationships with such accomplished professionals. I’ve also had the chance to work with everyday people like me who play a crucial role in helping doctors and attorneys run successful practices.

During my time in Atlanta, I’ve held various positions, including Surgical Manager, Lead Office Coordinator, and Clinical Manager. However, the role I’m most proud of is my current position as the Lead Patient Account Coordinator at Team-Rehab in Decatur.

I take great pride in my role because I had the opportunity to work alongside Dr. Angel Williams, who not only allowed me to utilize my knowledge but also helped me contribute to the success of her clinic. During my time there, I achieved several accomplishments that I am both excited and proud of. Firstly, I participated in a contest that showcased black entrepreneurs in metro Atlanta. The contest involved creating a billboard, and I was thrilled when my billboard was chosen as the winner and displayed around Atlanta, promoting Angel and Team-Rehab Decatur Church St clinic. Secondly, I had the privilege of helping Angel receive the prestigious title of Top Doctor of 2023. It was a surprise for her, and I was delighted to have played a part in making it happen. Another proud moment for me was when our clinic was nominated for the Best of Georgia Award. Not only did we win the Regional Winners for Best of Georgia for 2023, but we were also the only Team Rehab clinic in Georgia to be nominated out of 24 clinics. Being a part of Team Rehab for over three years, I believe I have achieved a lot, but I know that there is still more to come from me. The journey in healthcare has not been easy, but I have learned that with prayer, motivation, and surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to. And of course, it doesn’t hurt to know the right people too!

Working in healthcare has been a rewarding experience for me. I’m proud to be a part of a field that makes a difference in people’s lives every day.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, it’s quite funny because all of my closest friends actually reside here in Atlanta with me ever since I moved in 2017, except for one. However, whenever she visits, I would definitely do brunch either at Breakfast at Barneys or The Breakfast Boys. And of course, we never miss the opportunity to indulge in some daytime drinks so either Spaceman or Views Bar. Afterwards, I would take her to Decatur, where its greater as they say, and spend the rest of the night vibing out at The Spot on flat shoals Rd. Trust me, if you’re seeking a fantastic time with affordable drinks, while still capturing that authentic Atlanta experience with a section without breaking the bank or splurging on bottle service, The Spot is the place to be each and every Friday night. So, make sure to mark your calendar and go!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Yes I do have a few remarkable individuals who I would like to take a moment to acknowledge and shoutout who have played a significant role in shaping the person I am today. First and foremost, I must give a heartfelt shoutout to my incredible mother. She has been my unwavering support system, always there for me through thick and thin. Her selflessness and dedication to my well-being are truly inspiring. Mom, I love you more than words can express.

Next, I want to extend a special shoutout to Kathy Fuentes. She took a chance on me and hired me as her Surgical Manager all the way from Michigan. Her trust in my abilities and guidance in the field of healthcare, particularly in PI and Work Comp, have been invaluable. I owe a great deal of my professional growth to her mentorship.

I also want to recognize Christian Hughes, whose belief in me opened the doors to this incredible opportunity of working on this interview. Additionally, I want to give a shoutout to my best friends Eric, Cre, and Quan. Their unwavering support and willingness to uproot their lives to join me in Atlanta back in 2017 mean the world to me.

Lastly, I want to express my gratitude to Angel Williams for entrusting me with the management of her Physical Therapy clinic over the past three years. Her faith in my abilities has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally.

To all these amazing individuals, thank you for being a part of my journey and for contributing to the person I am today.

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Image Credits
Team Rehab Physical Therapy