Senior Research Analyst (Rural Health Transformation)

Agency: Oklahoma Health Care Authority (OHCA)

About the Role

This position is a time-limited, grant-funded role supporting the operational, analytical, compliance, and quality functions of the Long-Term Services and Supports & PACE unit. The Rural Health Transformation PACE Senior Research Analyst conducts complex research, reporting, monitoring, and coordination activities to support Rural Health Transformation and PACE program implementation. The role ensures compliance with state and federal requirements, promotes participant safety and quality outcomes, and provides data-driven insights to guide program operations, infrastructure, and continuous improvement.

This posting is intended to fill multiple positions within the Rural Health Transformation PACE unit. Selected candidates will be assigned to a specific functional track at the time of hire, based on program need and candidate experience:

• Clinical Operations, Logistics, and Mobile Unit Support: Focuses on coordination and optimization of mobile clinical service delivery, including workflow development, geospatial routing, access analysis, and oversight of equipment and operational readiness.
• Grant Compliance, Reporting, and Infrastructure Coordination: Focuses on federal and state reporting, grant compliance, audit readiness, monitoring subrecipient expenditures, and managing financial and performance reporting.
• Program Quality, Encounter Data, Risk Adjustment, Enrollment, and Appeals Coordination: Focuses on program integrity and quality oversight, including encounter data accuracy, risk adjustment analysis, enrollment processes, and coordination of grievances and appeals.

Some travel may be required, including visits to program sites, providers, or mobile unit locations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research, analysis, and coordination activities related to PACE and 1915(c) waiver programs.
• Design, produce, and analyze complex reports, dashboards, and data sets to support program operations and decision-making.
• Review data for accuracy, completeness, and trends; develop projections and recommendations based on statistical analysis.
• Support development, interpretation, and implementation of policies, procedures, and program guidance.
• Monitor program performance, provider compliance, and contractual obligations; identify and resolve operational issues.
• Coordinate with internal divisions, providers, contractors, and external stakeholders to support program objectives.
• Assist with preparation of reports for CMS and other regulatory or statutory requirements.
• Support participant safety and quality monitoring activities, including evaluation of program outcomes.
• Prepare materials and presentations for leadership, stakeholders, and public reporting.
• Plan and facilitate trainings, meetings, and stakeholder engagement activities.
• Represent the agency in meetings, conferences, and interagency coordination efforts.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, your application must include a resume/CV with complete work and education history.

• Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor’s degree which includes nine semester hours in statistics, statistical research methods, economics, demographic or social research statistics AND two years of experience in technical statistical and research work, OR
  • A master’s degree in a social science, business administration, or public administration which includes nine semester hours of advanced statistical methods.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills, with the ability to interpret complex healthcare data and translate findings into actionable insights.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, navigate ambiguity, and collaborate effectively across internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex information clearly to diverse audiences.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in Medicaid, managed care, or integrated healthcare programs.
• Experience with healthcare data analysis, reporting, or program evaluation.
• Familiarity with federal or state compliance requirements (e.g., CMS, grant reporting).
• Experience supporting program operations, quality improvement, or healthcare logistics.
• Proficiency with data tools such as Smartsheets, Excel, Tableau, Power BI, or similar platforms.

Skills

• Manages Complexity: Synthesizing large data sets and navigating multifaceted program requirements.
• Ensures Accountability: Maintaining data integrity, regulatory compliance, and performance standards.
• Communicates Effectively: Delivering clear, concise, and impactful information to stakeholders at all levels.

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive benefits package for all eligible employees:

• Generous state-paid benefit allowance to offset insurance premiums.
• Wide selection of insurance plans with no pre-existing condition exclusions.
• Flexible Spending Accounts for health care and dependent care.
• Retirement Savings Plan with employer contributions.
• 11 paid holidays annually.
• 15 days of vacation and 15 days of sick leave in the first year.
• Longevity Bonus recognizing years of public service.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility and tuition reimbursement.
• Wellness benefits, including an on-site gym and fitness center discounts.

Pay

$60,886/annual

Schedule

• Work Schedule: Monday – Friday
• Primary Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Appointment End Date: December 31, 2030 (time-limited, grant-funded position)

Work Environment

• Work is typically performed in an office setting with climate-controlled conditions and moderate noise levels.
• Requires extended periods of sitting and daily use of computers and phones.
• Must be willing to complete all job-related travel associated with this position.
• Being present at the office is an essential function of this position.