Job Information
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES COMMISSION Research Specialist V in Austin, Texas
Job/Position DescriptionThe Research Specialist V reports to the Manager of the Research, Development and Methodology (RDM) Team within the Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) section of the Provider Finance Department (PFD) and performs advanced (senior-level) research and rate setting work, including evaluation of existing, new or alternative rate methodologies for Medicaid and non-Medicaid services. The work involves research of state and federal regulations, analysis of Texas rate setting and reimbursement methodologies, and those used in other states, and general policy research and other research projects as assigned.The Research Specialist V will serve as a Team Lead and subject matter expert in LTSS rates and methodologies, including updating pro-forma rate models and rate calculations. Under the direction and assistance of the RDM manager, the Research Specialist V will mentor junior staff, perform reviews on peerand#146;s work, engage in staff training on research methods and LTSS rate methodologies, and help to ensure work is completed accurately and meets required deadlines.Research and rate setting will be performed under minimal direction with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. The Research Specialist V develops and implements research and analytical procedures to assess the validity of methods and/or procedures for appropriate application. The Research Specialist V also prepares a variety of reports, studies or other deliverables for internal and external audiences containing research results related to the rate setting process. The Research Specialist V will be expected to make presentations related to research and rate setting work and represent the PFD in meetings with internal and external stakeholders.The Research Specialist V prepares memorandums and white papers regarding the research and analysis performed for Executive leadership. The Research Specialist V performs other duties necessary to achieve the mission of the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC).Statewide travel of about 5% may be required.This position attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.Essential Job FunctionsEJF 1. Analysis and Development of existing, new and alternative rate methodologies: Performs advanced research related to HHSCand#146;s Medicaid and non-Medicaid rate methodologies necessary to develop LTSS reimbursement rates and supplemental payment programs. Contributes to LTSS rate setting work by refining LTSS pro-forma rate models to ensure that they align with State and Federal guidelines and regulations, Texas Administrative Code, and industryand#146;s best practices. Provides consultation and technical advice on research methods and techniques to staff on the research team and other rate analysts in the department. Reviews, analyzes, and evaluates the impact of legislation, regulations, and policies affecting reimbursement rates and healthcare finance, reports results and makes recommendations to PFD Leadership, Executive staff, including the Executive Commissioner and other key personnel; Formulates and monitors long-term research objectives, programs, and priorities needed to develop new reimbursement techniques and to evaluate how reimbursement rates are influencing HHSCand#146;s outcomes goals for clients; communicates to and advises the Director of PFD regarding the progress towards the long-term research objectives upon request. (35%)EJF 2. Draft Documents for https://jobshrportal.hhsc.state.tx.us/ENG/CareerPortal/job_profile.cfm?szOrderID=598514 Copy the URL in the preceding sentence to an Internet Explorer browser to apply to the job directly through the Texas Health and Human Services Career Portal.