Job/Position DescriptionThe Research Specialist IV reports to the Manager of the Research, Development and Methodology Team (RDM) within the Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) section of the Provider Finance Department (PFD) and performs complex 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 IV will work with LTSS rates and methodologies, including updating pro-forma rate models and performing rate and fiscal estimate calculations. Research and rate setting will be performed under moderate direction with significant latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. The Research Specialist IV also prepares a variety of narrative reports, studies or other deliverables for internal and external audiences containing research results related to the rate setting process. The Research Specialist IV 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 IV prepares memorandums and white papers regarding the research and analysis performed for Executive leadership. The Research Specialist IV performs other duties necessary to achieve the mission of the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC).Statewide travel of about 5% may be required.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 complex 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 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. Develops 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 departmental leadership regarding the progress towards the long-term research objectives upon request. (40%) EJF 2. Draft Documents for Approval and Presentation: Drafts memorandums, white papers, state plan amendments, rule amendments based on analyses, conducts public hearings; prepares independent reports and presentations on analyses results to other staff and department leadership on a routine basis; delivers oral presentations and reports on financial programs and initiatives to various provider and stakeholder organizations and to HHSC leadership; communicates complex results in a manner that can be easily understood by various audiences inc https://jobshrportal.hhsc.state.tx.us/ENG/CareerPortal/job_profile.cfm?szOrderID=598516 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.