Data Analyst and Research Intern

                                  Office of MaineCare Services

                                     Future Leaders Program

 MaineCare Overview: The Office of MaineCare Services (OMS) has primary responsibility for administering Medicaid program throughout the state of Maine. These responsibilities include; development of coverage policy, provider and member support, provider reimbursement, quality assurance, and pharmacy benefits. MaineCare provides reimbursement for more than 400,000 members for a wide variety of medical, behavioral health, and medically-related social services.

Program Overview: OMS is seeking students to join the Future Leaders program! This internship program offers a flexible, part-time work experience located in Augusta both on-site and in hybrid capacity. The Future Leaders program will provide applicants with a professional, hands-on leadership experience relative to their program of study. Assigned work is project based and self-lead; students will be expected to exemplify strong critical thinking and time-management skills. Each position will be tailored to promising candidates and will comprise of meaningful work, resulting in a real impact throughout the State. The program also affords students the opportunity to work with other program peers on a meaningful group project that will be presented to senior leadership at the end of the term. This program runs during Spring, Summer and Fall semesters with students working either part or full-time. Compensation is based on student’s level of education. 

Position Overview:  In order to comply with Maine’s rate reform law under MRS Title 22 Section 3173-J, Office of MaineCare Services must conduct a comprehensive benchmarking report every four years that compares MaineCare rates for all covered services to those paid by Medicare, at least five comparison Medicaid states and relevant commercial payers. In addition, the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued its “Ensuring Access to Medicaid Services” final rule in April 2024 which requires states to conduct a comparative rate analysis for a predetermined set of service codes to Medicare rates by July 1, 2026. Because of the similarities and overlap within these required reports, OMS is intending to produce one report that will meet both the state and federal requirements by the July deadline.                                             

To complete this project, an individual must have the ability to navigate Maine’s data systems in order to compile MaineCare service rates. You will need to have data analysis and evaluation skills, as well as knowledge of data analysis tools and software to conduct the rate analysis after acquiring and compiling the comparative data from CMS, other fee for service Medicaid states, and private insurers. 

Applicant Requirements:

§ Enrolled in an accredited college degree program – minimum 30 credits completed

§ Demonstrates leadership abilities

§ Interest in state government

§ Strong analytical and critical thinking skills

§ Proficient in Microsoft Office

§ Ability to independently and collaboratively prioritize, drive results, and meet deadlines

§ Excellent written and interpersonal skills

§ Ability to plan work and manage time effectively