25 Health Unit Coordinator Interview Questions and Answers

Health unit coordinators play a critical role in the health care industry. They work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, and clinics. As the first point of contact for patients and their families, health unit coordinators must be able to handle a wide range of tasks and responsibilities.

If you’re interviewing for a health unit coordinator position, you can expect to be asked a variety of questions about your experience, your skills, and your knowledge. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a list of sample questions and answers that will help you prepare for your interview.

1. Are you comfortable working with a wide range of people, including those who are sick or in pain?

This question can help interviewers understand how you feel about interacting with patients who may be experiencing challenging situations. Your answer should show that you are empathetic and compassionate, but also confident in your ability to handle these interactions.

Example: “Absolutely. I have a passion for helping people and providing excellent customer service, regardless of the situation. As a Health Unit Coordinator, I understand that it is my job to provide comfort and support to those who are ill or in pain. I am comfortable working with all types of patients and their families, as well as other medical staff members. I take pride in being able to make a positive difference in someone’s life during a difficult time. I also strive to ensure that each patient receives the best care possible by staying up-to-date on current healthcare trends and protocols.”

2. What are some of the most important qualities for a health unit coordinator to have?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have the skills and abilities to be successful in this role. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a few of your strongest qualities that relate to this position.

Example: “The most important qualities for a health unit coordinator to have are excellent communication skills, strong organizational abilities, and the ability to multitask.

Excellent communication skills are essential in this role because it requires frequent interaction with patients, families, doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. As a health unit coordinator, I understand the importance of being able to communicate clearly and effectively with all stakeholders involved in patient care.

Strong organizational abilities are also critical for success as a health unit coordinator. This position involves managing multiple tasks at once, so having the ability to prioritize and stay organized is key. I am confident that my experience in coordinating complex projects and keeping track of detailed information will be an asset to your team.

Lastly, the ability to multitask is crucial for any health unit coordinator. In this role, you must be able to juggle multiple tasks while still providing quality care to patients. I believe my past experience working in high-pressure environments has given me the necessary skills to handle multiple responsibilities simultaneously.”

3. How would you handle a situation where a doctor was not available to see a patient and you needed to find a replacement?

This question can help an interviewer understand how you handle stressful situations and make decisions. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills, ability to communicate effectively and organizational skills.

Example: “If I were in a situation where a doctor was not available to see a patient, my first step would be to assess the urgency of the situation. If it is an emergency, I would contact the on-call physician and ensure that they are able to provide care for the patient. If the situation is not urgent, I would reach out to other physicians within the practice or network who may be available to take over the patient’s care.

I would also check with the medical staff office to see if there are any locum tenens doctors available who could fill in while the doctor is unavailable. Finally, I would make sure to document all communication regarding the situation so that everyone involved is aware of what happened and how it was handled.”

4. What is your process for ensuring that all of the patients’ records are up-to-date and accurate?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you organize and prioritize your work. Your answer should show that you have a system for keeping track of important information, such as patient records, and are able to complete this task efficiently.

Example: “As a Health Unit Coordinator, I understand the importance of accurate and up-to-date patient records. To ensure that all records are properly maintained, I have developed a process to guarantee accuracy.

The first step is to review each record for any changes or updates that need to be made. This includes verifying information such as contact details, insurance information, diagnosis codes, and other pertinent data. Once this initial review is complete, I will enter the updated information into the system.

Next, I will double check the entries to make sure they are correct. Finally, I will print out a hard copy of the updated record and file it in the appropriate place. I also keep an electronic version of the record on hand so that I can easily access it if needed.

By following this process, I am confident that all patient records remain up-to-date and accurate.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to help a patient and their family navigate a complex health care system.

This question can help interviewers understand how you use your communication skills to help patients and their families. Use examples from your experience that highlight your ability to explain complex health care systems in a way that is easy for patients and their families to understand.

Example: “I recently had the opportunity to help a patient and their family navigate a complex health care system. The patient was an elderly woman who had been admitted to the hospital for a serious medical condition. She had multiple chronic conditions that required her to be seen by several different specialists, as well as having numerous tests done.

As the Health Unit Coordinator, I worked with the patient and her family to ensure they understood all of the necessary steps in the process. This included helping them understand the various treatments being recommended, coordinating appointments with the specialists, and providing information on any additional resources available to them. I also kept track of the patient’s progress throughout the entire process, ensuring that all of the necessary paperwork was completed correctly and on time.”

6. If a patient was unhappy with the level of care they were receiving, how would you handle the situation?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle conflict and address complaints. When answering, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation in which you helped resolve an issue with a patient or family member.

Example: “If a patient was unhappy with the level of care they were receiving, I would first take the time to listen to their concerns and understand what it is that they are not happy about. Once I have established an understanding of their dissatisfaction, I would then work to find a solution that meets their needs while also adhering to hospital policies and procedures. My goal in this situation would be to ensure that the patient feels heard and respected, while also providing them with the best possible care.

I am confident that my experience as a Health Unit Coordinator has prepared me for such situations. I have developed strong communication skills which allow me to effectively address any issues that may arise. In addition, I have extensive knowledge of medical terminology and protocols, which allows me to quickly identify potential solutions to any problems that may arise.”

7. What would you do if two doctors were unable to work together to create a treatment plan for a patient?

Working with other healthcare professionals is an important part of the job. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience working in a team environment and can resolve conflicts when they arise. In your answer, explain that you would try to understand both sides of the conflict. Then, you would come up with a compromise or solution that works for everyone involved.

Example: “If two doctors were unable to work together to create a treatment plan for a patient, I would first assess the situation and determine what is causing the disagreement. If it’s something that can be easily resolved, such as a misunderstanding of information or a difference in opinion, then I would do my best to facilitate an open dialogue between the two doctors to help them come to an agreement. However, if the disagreement is more complex, I would suggest they consult with another doctor who could provide a third-party perspective on the matter. In addition, I would ensure that all relevant medical records are up to date and accurate so that any decision made is based on complete and correct information. Finally, I would also make sure to keep the patient informed throughout the process so that they understand the decisions being made and feel comfortable with the proposed treatment plan.”

8. How well do you perform under pressure?

Working in a health unit can be stressful at times. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the ability to stay calm and focused when things get busy. In your answer, share two or three ways that you manage stress. Explain how these methods help you perform well under pressure.

Example: “I am confident in my ability to perform well under pressure. I have a proven track record of success when it comes to handling stressful situations and meeting deadlines. In my current role as Health Unit Coordinator, I often find myself managing multiple tasks at once while ensuring accuracy and quality. I stay organized and prioritize tasks so that I can ensure all deadlines are met without compromising the quality of my work. I also take initiative to ask questions and seek out additional resources if needed. My experience has taught me how to remain calm and focused even when faced with challenging circumstances.”

9. Do you have experience working with a large volume of patients at once?

This question can help interviewers understand how you might handle a large workload. If your experience is limited, consider describing a time when you had to manage multiple tasks at once and the strategies you used to stay organized.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience working with a large volume of patients at once. In my current role as Health Unit Coordinator, I am responsible for managing the flow of patient information and ensuring that all necessary paperwork is completed accurately and in a timely manner. I also coordinate appointments and ensure that all medical records are up to date. My experience has taught me how to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects simultaneously while still providing excellent customer service. I understand the importance of accuracy and efficiency when dealing with a high volume of patients and strive to provide the best possible care.”

10. When is it appropriate to reach out to a patient’s family to inform them about a medical issue?

This question can help the interviewer assess your communication skills and ability to handle sensitive situations. In your answer, demonstrate that you understand when it’s appropriate to inform family members about a patient’s medical issues and how to do so in an empathetic way.

Example: “It is important to always take into consideration the patient’s wishes when it comes to informing their family about a medical issue. As a Health Unit Coordinator, I understand that there are times when it is appropriate to reach out to a patient’s family in order to provide them with information regarding their loved one’s health.

For example, if a patient has been admitted to the hospital and requires surgery, it may be necessary to contact their family so they can be informed of the situation and make any necessary arrangements. In addition, if a patient is unable to communicate due to illness or injury, then it is also appropriate to contact their family to ensure they are aware of the patient’s condition.”

11. We want to improve our communication with patients. What strategies would you use to do this?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you plan to improve patient care and satisfaction. Your answer should include specific strategies that you have used in the past or ideas for new ways to communicate with patients.

Example: “I believe that effective communication with patients is essential to providing quality healthcare. To improve communication, I would focus on creating an open and welcoming environment for patients. This could include introducing myself when they arrive and making sure they understand the purpose of their visit. I would also ensure that all patient information is up-to-date and accurate in our system so that we can provide timely and accurate care. Finally, I would make sure that any questions or concerns are addressed promptly and thoroughly. By taking these steps, I am confident that I can help create a positive experience for patients and ensure that they receive the best possible care.”

12. Describe your process for organizing your day and prioritizing your tasks.

This question can help the interviewer understand how you plan your day and manage multiple projects. Your answer should include a specific process for organizing your tasks, along with examples of how you used this method to complete important work in previous roles.

Example: “When it comes to organizing my day and prioritizing tasks, I like to start by creating a list of all the tasks that need to be completed. This helps me get an overview of what needs to be done and allows me to prioritize each task based on its importance. Once I have my list, I break down each task into smaller steps so that I can focus on one at a time. This also helps me stay organized and focused throughout the day. Finally, I use a calendar system to keep track of deadlines and ensure that I am completing tasks in a timely manner. By following these steps, I am able to effectively manage my workload and make sure that I am staying on top of all my responsibilities.”

13. What makes you an ideal candidate for this health unit coordinator position?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications for the job. They want to know what makes you a good fit for their organization and how you can contribute to its success. Before your interview, make a list of reasons why you are qualified for this role. Think about your education, experience and skills that match the employer’s needs.

Example: “I believe I am the ideal candidate for this health unit coordinator position because of my extensive experience and knowledge in the field. I have been a Health Unit Coordinator for over five years, during which time I have gained a deep understanding of the duties and responsibilities associated with the role. I am highly organized and detail-oriented, allowing me to effectively manage multiple tasks simultaneously while ensuring accuracy. Furthermore, I possess excellent communication skills, enabling me to work collaboratively with other members of the healthcare team. Finally, I am passionate about providing quality patient care and strive to ensure that all patients receive the best possible care. With my combination of experience, knowledge, organization, attention to detail, communication skills, and passion for patient care, I am confident that I can be an asset to your team.”

14. Which computer programs or software have you used in the past to complete administrative tasks?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn about your computer skills and how you use them in the workplace. You can answer this question by naming a few programs or software that you have used in the past, such as Microsoft Office Suite, Google Drive or Dropbox.

Example: “I have extensive experience using a variety of computer programs and software to complete administrative tasks. I am proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. I also have experience with electronic medical records systems such as Epic and Cerner. In addition, I am familiar with scheduling and billing software, like Allscripts and Athenahealth.

Furthermore, I am comfortable learning new software quickly and efficiently. During my previous positions, I was able to learn the ins and outs of various programs within a short period of time. This allowed me to become an expert user and provide valuable assistance to other staff members who were not as familiar with the program.”

15. What do you think is the most important role for a health unit coordinator to fulfill?

This question is your opportunity to show the interviewer that you understand what a health unit coordinator does and how important it is for them to fulfill their role. You can answer this question by explaining which duties are most important to you personally, or you can list all of the responsibilities of a health unit coordinator and explain why each one is important.

Example: “As a Health Unit Coordinator, I believe the most important role is to provide support and assistance to medical staff in order to ensure that patient care is delivered efficiently and effectively. This includes managing patient records, scheduling appointments, coordinating tests and procedures, and providing information to patients and their families. It also involves communicating with other departments within the facility such as laboratory, radiology, and pharmacy in order to coordinate services for the patient.

In addition, it is essential for health unit coordinators to be organized and detail-oriented in order to maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records. They must also have excellent communication skills in order to effectively interact with both patients and medical staff. Finally, they should possess strong problem-solving skills in order to quickly identify and resolve any issues that may arise.”

16. How often do you think a health unit coordinator should update their skills and knowledge to remain effective?

This question can help interviewers understand how you view your own role in the workplace and how much responsibility you take for your own professional development. Your answer should show that you are committed to continuous learning, but also that you have a realistic idea of what is possible within your time constraints.

Example: “As a Health Unit Coordinator, I believe it is important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in healthcare. Keeping my skills and knowledge current helps me remain effective and provide quality care for patients. To ensure that I am doing this, I make sure to attend continuing education courses on a regular basis. This allows me to stay informed of any changes or advancements in the field, as well as learn new techniques and strategies. In addition, I also read industry publications and follow relevant blogs and social media accounts to stay abreast of the latest developments. By doing so, I can be confident that I am providing the highest level of service possible.”

17. There is a shortage of qualified nurses in the area. How would you convince more people to pursue a career in nursing?

This question is an opportunity to show your passion for nursing and how you can help others discover their own passion. When answering this question, it’s important to be honest about why you became a nurse and what inspired you to pursue the career.

Example: “I understand that there is a shortage of qualified nurses in the area, and I believe that this could be addressed by increasing awareness about the profession. As a Health Unit Coordinator, I am passionate about helping people to pursue their dreams and find meaningful work.

I would start by reaching out to local high schools and universities to share information about nursing as a career option. This could include hosting seminars or workshops to discuss the various roles available within the field, such as registered nurse, licensed practical nurse, and certified nursing assistant. I would also encourage students to explore online resources and shadowing opportunities to gain more insight into the profession.

Additionally, I would look for ways to increase visibility of nursing professionals in the community. For example, I would create partnerships with local businesses and organizations to host events featuring successful nurses who can speak to their experiences and answer questions from potential students. Finally, I would advocate for increased funding for scholarships and grants to make nursing education more accessible and affordable.”

18. How would you handle a situation where two patients are in need of urgent care but only one can be seen immediately?

This question can help interviewers understand how you prioritize tasks and manage your time. In your answer, try to explain the steps you would take to ensure that both patients receive care as quickly as possible.

Example: “In a situation where two patients are in need of urgent care but only one can be seen immediately, I would handle it with the utmost professionalism and sensitivity. First, I would assess both patient’s conditions to determine which is most critical and needs to be seen first. Then, I would explain the situation to each patient, making sure they understand why their care must be prioritized over the other. Finally, I would provide support for both patients by offering resources such as additional information or referrals to specialists if needed. My goal would be to ensure that both patients feel heard and respected while still providing the best possible care to the patient who requires immediate attention.”

19. What strategies do you use to ensure that all patient information is kept confidential and secure?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your knowledge of privacy and security regulations. Your answer should include a specific example of how you followed the rules for protecting patient information in your previous role.

Example: “I understand the importance of keeping patient information confidential and secure. To ensure this, I use a variety of strategies in my role as a Health Unit Coordinator. First, I always make sure to follow all HIPAA regulations when handling patient data. This includes only accessing records that are necessary for my job duties, using strong passwords on computers and other devices, and never sharing patient information with unauthorized personnel.

In addition, I also stay up-to-date on best practices for protecting patient data. This includes regularly attending training sessions on topics like cyber security and data privacy. Finally, I make sure to double check any documents or forms containing patient information before filing them away. By following these strategies, I am confident that I can maintain the highest level of confidentiality and security for patient information.”

20. Describe a difficult situation you have encountered while working as a health unit coordinator and how you handled it.

A hiring manager may ask this question to learn more about your problem-solving skills and how you react to challenging situations. When answering, try to describe a situation that was difficult but also one in which you were able to find a solution or compromise.

Example: “I once encountered a difficult situation while working as a health unit coordinator in which I had to manage a high-volume workload with limited resources. This was especially challenging because the hospital was short staffed and our team was already stretched thin.

To handle this situation, I took initiative and worked closely with other departments to ensure that all tasks were completed efficiently. I also implemented a streamlined process for managing patient records and scheduling appointments, which helped reduce paperwork and improve overall workflow. Finally, I collaborated with my colleagues to develop an effective system of communication between departments so that everyone could stay informed about any changes or updates.”

21. What experience do you have with medical coding or billing?

This question can help the interviewer understand your experience with a specific aspect of health unit coordination. If you have relevant experience, share it and explain how it helped you in previous roles. If you don’t have any coding or billing experience, you can still answer this question by describing your general understanding of these processes.

Example: “I have extensive experience with medical coding and billing. I have been a Health Unit Coordinator for the past five years, and during that time I have gained a deep understanding of medical coding and billing processes. In my current role, I am responsible for entering patient information into the system, verifying insurance coverage, submitting claims to insurers, and following up on any unpaid or denied claims. I also manage the accounts receivable process, ensuring timely payment from patients and insurance companies alike. My attention to detail and ability to stay organized has enabled me to keep accurate records and ensure all payments are received in a timely manner. I am confident that my experience and knowledge make me an ideal candidate for this position.”

22. What steps do you take to ensure accurate filing of patient records?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your organizational skills and attention to detail. Your answer should include a specific example of how you organized patient records in the past, as well as the benefits of doing so.

Example: “I understand the importance of accurate filing of patient records and take several steps to ensure that all documents are filed correctly. First, I make sure that all documents are properly labeled with the patient’s name, date, and other relevant information. This helps me quickly locate any document if it needs to be retrieved in the future. Second, I double-check my work by reviewing each file before I close it. Finally, I use a secure filing system that is regularly backed up so that no data is lost or corrupted. By taking these steps, I am confident that all patient records are accurately filed and easily accessible when needed.”

23. In what ways do you think technology has improved the effectiveness of health unit coordinators?

Technology has become an important part of many industries, including healthcare. Employers may ask this question to see if you have experience using technology in your role as a health unit coordinator. Use your answer to highlight any specific skills or programs that you use regularly.

Example: “Technology has had a tremendous impact on the effectiveness of health unit coordinators. It has allowed us to streamline processes and increase accuracy in our work. For example, electronic medical records have made it easier for us to access patient information quickly and accurately. This allows us to provide better care to patients by having all their information readily available. In addition, technology has enabled us to communicate more effectively with other healthcare professionals. We can now easily send messages or documents securely and quickly, which helps us coordinate care more efficiently. Finally, technology has improved our ability to track data and analyze trends in patient care. This helps us identify areas where we need to make improvements and ensure that our patients are receiving the best possible care.”

24. Do you have any ideas on how we could better streamline our processes for scheduling appointments and managing patient flow?

This question can help the interviewer determine your ability to think critically and creatively. Use examples from past experience or specific ideas you have for improving processes in this role.

Example: “Yes, I have some ideas on how to better streamline our processes for scheduling appointments and managing patient flow. First, I would suggest implementing an electronic system that allows patients to easily book their own appointments online. This would save time for both the staff and the patients, as they wouldn’t need to call in or come into the office to schedule an appointment. Secondly, I believe it would be beneficial to create a more organized system for tracking patient information. This could include using a database to store all of the patient’s medical records and other pertinent information. Finally, I think having a dedicated staff member responsible for monitoring patient flow would help ensure that everyone is seen in a timely manner and that no one gets lost in the shuffle. By utilizing these strategies, we can make sure that our processes are efficient and effective.”

25. Are there any new trends in healthcare that you are aware of that could benefit our organization?

Employers ask this question to see if you are up-to-date on the latest healthcare trends. They want to know that you can adapt your skills and knowledge to new situations as they arise. In your answer, explain a trend you have noticed in healthcare and how it could benefit the organization you’re interviewing with.

Example: “Yes, absolutely. I am very aware of the new trends in healthcare that could benefit any organization. For example, one trend is the use of technology to streamline processes and improve patient care. By utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) and other software solutions, organizations can reduce paperwork and administrative costs while increasing accuracy and efficiency. In addition, telemedicine has become increasingly popular as a way for patients to access medical advice remotely. This can help reduce wait times and increase convenience for both patients and providers. Finally, there is an increased focus on preventative care which can lead to better outcomes and lower overall costs. All of these trends are beneficial to any healthcare organization and I would be excited to explore how we can implement them at our facility.”