Vanguard Reimbursement Services is a North Carolina-based company that specializes in working with hospitals to perform eligibility screening and processing for indigent, uninsured and under-insured patients and private clients to help navigate the complex process of securing disability coverage. Since its inception in 1997, Vanguard has achieved a reputation of stellar performance and has grown to service hospitals and clients in every region of North Carolina.
The vast majority of our employees have a background in Medicaid eligibility and SSI/SSDI eligibility. Their skills are further refined by our specialized training program in order to provide the highest levels of service to our hospitals and clients. Above all, our mission is to uphold each hospital’s mission statement and to treat each patient/client with compassion and empathy while helping them secure the assistance they deserve.
Please feel free to contact us for more information about our services and what we can do for you.
Employee Spotlights
Marie Hawkins, President
Marie Hawkins is President of Vanguard Reimbursement Services, Inc. in North Carolina. She is responsible for hospital sales and client development. Prior to forming her own company, she was Director of Provider Relations and Provider Education at EDS Federal, fiscal agent for the State of North Carolina Medicaid Program, for 18 years.
Marie has been a member of HFMA North Carolina Chapter since 1981. She has been a member of the Matrix for each of those years and has served as the HFMA appointee to the HHIA annual meeting since 1990 – 2014. Marie has received the William G. Follmer Bronze Award, the Robert H. Reeves Silver Award, and the Frederick T. Muncie Gold Award.
Betsy Daniel, Regional Manager
Betsy Daniel began working with Vanguard in 2007 as a Benefits Specialist and was promoted to State Manager. Her background in Medicaid eligibility and Social Security Disability gives her the experience necessary to provide quality assurance and to train new Vanguard employees.
Betsy’s proactive attitude and emphasis on training and quality assurance ensures that Vanguard delivers the highest level of client satisfaction.
Edward Feltman, Non-Attorney Legal Representative
Edward Feltman serves as the Non-Attorney Legal Representative for Vanguard Reimbursement Services, bringing decades of experience in disability law and administrative hearings. Before joining Vanguard, Edward held key roles within the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services from 1992 to 2021, including Hearing Officer and Chief of Quality Assurance and Appeals in the Hearing and Appeals section.
In his current role, he is responsible for reviewing medical records, evaluating and preparing cases for hearings, and drafting both tentative and final decisions on behalf of clients.
With extensive knowledge of state and federal disability regulations, Edward offers valuable expertise in navigating complex legal and procedural frameworks. His deep understanding of the application and appeals process allows him to advocate effectively for clients.
Jessica Sexton, Disability Caseworker
Jessica Sexton is a Disability Caseworker and has been working with Vanguard since 2007. With a strong focus on patient advocacy, Jessica acts as a liaison between clients and agencies such as the Social Security Administration, Disability Determination Services, and the Office of Hearing Operations. She offers support throughout the application and appeals process. From completing complex paperwork to helping schedule appointments, her goal is to ensure clients receive the guidance and resources they need.
Drawing referrals from hospital systems, behavioral health facilities, local medical providers, and community word of mouth, Jessica plays a crucial role in connecting underserved populations with vital services.