Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Kristy Foster

Ringgold

Summary

Dynamic Research Associate with Blue Cross and Blue Shield, with 7+ years of experience assisting customers, using active listening and customer needs assessment to offer targeted solutions. Proven track record in resolving complex claims issues, enhancing productivity through innovative software solutions, and maintaining compliance with HIPAA regulations. Recognized for exceptional problem-solving skills and ability to thrive in fast-paced environments.

Overview

27
27
years of professional experience

Work History

Research Associate

Blue Cross and Blue Shield
02.2016 - 06.2025
  • Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
  • Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently.
  • Learned and adapted quickly to new technology and software applications.
  • Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment.
  • Evaluated coverage accurately by interpreting complex insurance policies and applying them to specific claim scenarios.
  • Researched claims and medical policy information to deliver solutions and resolve problems.
  • Identified insurance coverage limitations with thorough examinations of claims documentation and related records.
  • Evaluated new software tools that improved productivity levels while maintaining accuracy standards.
  • Resolved complex claims issues for expedited processing and resolution.
  • Developed customized reports for management review, highlighting key trends and areas of improvement in claims handling process.
  • Collaborated with healthcare providers to obtain necessary documentation for claim support.
  • Maintained strict compliance with HIPAA regulations, safeguarding patient privacy throughout the claim evaluation process.
  • Managed high volume caseloads, prioritizing urgent and sensitive cases for immediate attention.
  • Managed large volume of medical claims on daily basis.
  • Identified and resolved discrepancies between patient information and claims data.
  • Researched and resolved complex medical claims issues to support timely processing.
  • Maintained knowledge of benefits claim processing, claims principles, medical terminology, and procedures and HIPAA regulations.
  • Verified patient insurance coverage and benefits for medical claims.
  • Monitored and updated claims status in claims processing system.
  • Paid or denied medical claims based upon established claims processing criteria.
  • Evaluated medical claims for accuracy and completeness and researched missing data.

Customer Service Expert

Blue Cross and Blue Shield
02.2016 - 03.2019
  • • Manage incoming customer service calls for BlueCare, Tenncare, Select Kids, and Choices members.
  • Streamlined processes for improved efficiency in handling customer inquiries.
  • Exceeded performance targets consistently through diligence, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving abilities.
  • Worked closely with management to establish performance goals aligned with organizational objectives; regularly monitored progress toward these benchmarks.
  • Established rapport with clients by actively listening to their needs and addressing concerns empathetically and effectively.
  • Enhanced patient satisfaction by addressing inquiries and resolving issues related to medical appointments, billing, and insurance.
  • Managed high call volume with professionalism and empathy, ensuring timely resolution of customer concerns.
  • Handled sensitive patient information with confidentiality, adhering to HIPAA regulations at all times.
  • Resolved escalated customer complaints efficiently while maintaining composure under pressure situations.
  • Assisted in training new team members on company policies and best practices in medical customer service delivery.
  • Maintained accurate documentation for all customer interactions, contributing to a comprehensive database for future reference.
  • Work with TPL team from spreadsheets and facets to properly update member COB information
  • Assist Quality Recruiting team in mentoring new hires
  • Awarded 500$, 12 PTO hrs., and appointed to focus group for addressing Gaps in care, and highest performance in appointment scheduling

Senior Care Division Specialist (Contractor)

Kelly Services
08.2015 - 02.2016
  • Managed CMS/MARX reporting sent thru member Transaction Reply Codes and applied accordingly thru spreadsheets and Facets.
  • Overseen data entry for CMS loads
  • Tracked Misdirected mail and updated member information for proper mailing
  • Verified member information for accurate enrollment and billing for new membership

• Accountable for database reporting to CMS for report deadlines

• Sustained required production and quality standards

• Communicated process improvements and goals thru productive team meetings

Customer Service Representative II

Convergys LLC
11.2011 - 08.2015

• Consulted with customers to determine best methods to resolve service and billing issues

• Cultivated impactful relationships with customers and drove business development by delivering

product knowledge

• Informed customers about billing procedures, processed payments and provided payment option setup assistance

• Met or exceeded revenue objectives by promoting DIRECTV to customers during service, account • and sales follow-up calls

• Addressed customer service inquiries quickly and accurately

• Documented conversations with customers to track requests, problems and solutions

Line Technician

Yates Services
05.2009 - 05.2011

• Assemble automobile parts to meet truck system broadcast schedule

Deliver parts to assembling area

• Locate and Monitor line equipment and computer programming output

• Set-up body harness and engine harness to broadcast requirements

• Set-up left side and right-side kits to meet broad<;ast schedule

• Stage goods and parts as required

• Assemble radios and telephones for the car system units

• Build units according to computer programming schedule

• Worked online in truck system within a five-job rotation

• Installed and Inspected parts on 52 second assembly

• Sustained high level of quality and production

Operator A, Material Handler, Assistant Processor

Wrigley Gum
01.2006 - 03.2009

• Operated confectionery machines.

• Organize materials for daily changeovers, operation, and inspection of machines

• Assisted kitchen in processing of gummy variety packs

• Troubleshoot all machinery in operation

• Inspect goods to determine quality standards

• Labeled and disposition completed goods

• Operated forklift for loading, unloading, and staging purposes

• Delivered material to line using control data and forklift equipment

• Operated under SAP computer program

• Lead soft candy Pre-shift meetings, and involved in implementing Lean Manufacturing standards

Operator, Lab Technician, Cell Team Leader

Synthetic Industries
03.1998 - 01.2006

• Managed 30 to 60 people daily

• Assigned employees according to manufacturing schedule

• Reported directly to engineer on quality issues and procedures taken to solve those issues

• Assisted supervisor in interviewing potential employees, employee advancement, and disciplinary issues

• Trained and empowered employees on safety and process requirements

• Responsible for implementing, and following standard work procedures

• Operated LIMS and UTS machinery (lab testing equipment)

• Orchestrated and Organized changeovers for existing, and new innovations

• Communicated and Instructed process needs through employee Pre-shift meetings

• Analyzed data and trends through charting, and communicated findings

• Deviated and corrected process quality issues

• Operated forklift for the loading, unloading, and staging of goods

• Lead and participated in several Lean Manufacturing Projects

• Assisted in successful Green Belt Project that saved company 1.2 million dollars in first quarter

• Operated Converter/ Slicer equipment

• Accomplished tasks according to schedule and helped struggling team members

• Maintained open communication with systems operators to keep line product within specifications

• Practiced safe lockout-tagout procedures to prevent injury to personnel during maintenanc.e procedures

• Received and correctly processed both written and verbal instructions, prints and work orders


Education

No Degree - Health Information Management

Chattanooga State Community College
Chattanooga, TN

High School Diploma -

Howard School of Academics And Technology
Chattanooga, TN
05-1995

Skills

  • Scientific writing
  • Literature reviews
  • Ethics compliance
  • Data interpretation
  • Customer Service
  • Ulysses Trained
  • Behavior Based Safety Trained
  • Supervisor Fill-In, Managed up to 60 people
  • Trained in Green Belt Concepts
  • Operating Multiple Computer Applications

Timeline

Research Associate

Blue Cross and Blue Shield
02.2016 - 06.2025

Customer Service Expert

Blue Cross and Blue Shield
02.2016 - 03.2019

Senior Care Division Specialist (Contractor)

Kelly Services
08.2015 - 02.2016

Customer Service Representative II

Convergys LLC
11.2011 - 08.2015

Line Technician

Yates Services
05.2009 - 05.2011

Operator A, Material Handler, Assistant Processor

Wrigley Gum
01.2006 - 03.2009

Operator, Lab Technician, Cell Team Leader

Synthetic Industries
03.1998 - 01.2006

No Degree - Health Information Management

Chattanooga State Community College

High School Diploma -

Howard School of Academics And Technology
Kristy Foster