SAS Programmer

Job Description:

The Massachusetts Health Policy Commission (HPC) seeks a part-time contract SAS Programmer to support the Research and Cost Trends (RCT) department in updating and maintaining the data infrastructure used to prepare the All-Payer Claims Database (APCD), advise on structural changes to case-mix and evaluate existing tools used in analytic file creation. This is an opportunity for a detail-oriented, skilled SAS coder with previous experience working with health insurance enrollment files, medical claims, and pharmacy claims, as well as datasets maintained by the Massachusetts Center for Health Information and Analysis (CHIA).  

The SAS Programmer will join the Research and Cost Trends (RCT) department and will report directly to the Manager of Research and Cost Trends. 
 
Duties of the position may include, but are not limited to: 

• Updating programs to allow for changes in new releases of the All-Payer Claims Database (APCD);  

• Advising and creating best practices to integrate CHIA’s Master Patient Index (MPI) that is updated on a quarterly basis and allows linking across APCD and case-mix; 

• Integrating the 3M Core Grouping Software into the analytic pipeline; 

• Integrating the HHS-HCC risk adjustment model into the analytic pipeline; 

• Validating HPC’s methods for processing MassHealth ACO/MCO/FFS claims; 

• Helping integrate MassHealth MCO processing into commercial processing such that both sets of claims can be processed simultaneously; 

• Identify and eliminate outdated SAS code in programs to help reduce confusion for future processors; 

• Advising HPC on processing Medicare Advantage claims and make changes to existing programs as needed to allow for Medicare Advantage analytic file creation; and 

• Providing ongoing on-demand support for technical issues 

The HPC operates a hybrid work schedule, with employees splitting their time between the downtown Boston office and remote work.    
 
Desired Qualifications:  

• Advanced Degree in Computer Science, Information Systems Management, or related field; 

• At least 5 years of experience with SAS programming, data infrastructure maintenance, and analytic file creation; 

• Previous experience working with claims data such as Center for Health Information Analysis All-Payer Claims Database preferred; 

• Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal skills and the ability to work in groups; 

• The ability to balance multiple and competing priorities in a fast-paced work environment; 

• A commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace that promotes collaboration amongst diverse viewpoints, facilitates cooperation and teamwork, and supports constructive resolution of conflicts; 

• A strong interest in public service and desire to advance a more transparent, accountable, and equitable health care system for all Massachusetts residents. 

Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States. 
 
Compensation and Benefits 
Compensation Range 
$140-$155 per hour worked, up to 20 hours of work a week. An initial maximum contract obligation of 120 hours. 

Compensation is commensurate with experience. The HPC may adjust title, responsibilities, and compensation depending on the experience and expertise of the individual selected.  

This is a contract position for up to one year of work. This position is not eligible for  benefits other than limited sick leave. 
 
Our Commitment: 
The HPC is committed to a policy of non-discrimination and equal employment opportunity. We recognize that diversity in the workplace is a source of strength, vital to its ability to effectively advance its mission.  The HPC is committed to: 

• Actively promoting diversity in our workforce, including greater racial and ethnic diversity, at all levels of the organization; 

• Fostering a work environment in which all employees are inspired to do their best, strengthened by their different perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences; 

• Ensuring that no employee’s growth, achievement, or advancement is hindered because of race, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, genetic information, gender identity, pregnancy, veteran status, or disability; 

• Holding ourselves to a high standard of inclusion and opportunity that will serve as a model for other public and private employers throughout the Commonwealth; 

• Promoting our core values of equal opportunity, equal justice, and inclusion in HPC actions and initiatives.