Medicaid Chief Medical Officer

Salary : $118,414.40 - $316,076.80 Annually

Location : Des Moines - 50319 - Polk County, IA

Job Type : Full-time

Job Number : 25-03145

Agency : 400 Health & Human Services - Medicaid

Opening Date : 08 / 07 / 2025

Closing Date : 10 / 7 / 2025 11 : 59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag : #LI-POST

Point of Contact : Melissa Bird - melissa.bird@hhs.iowa.gov

To Apply : To be considered applicants please send resume and cover letter to Melissa Bird at melissa.bird@hhs.iowa.gov

Job Description

As a division of the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Iowa Medicaid insures more than 700,000 Iowans, operating with a budget of nearly $7 billion. Reporting directly to the Iowa Medicaid Director, the Medicaid Chief Medical Officer is a key member of the Iowa Medicaid Leadership Team.

In year two of a significant agency consolidation, Iowa HHS is a lifespan services agency and the State's largest in both budget and number of employees. This new system design positions Medicaid in a cornerstone role beyond its foundational capacity as a major insurer in the state, to drive key population health outcomes and significant impacts to rural healthcare access, maternal health, and behavioral health system design.

Iowa Medicaid is leading significant transformational efforts, including the launch of a redesigned home and community-based services waiver structure, a new service array for children and a co-designed model to launch Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHC).

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced physician leader to serve as the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) for our Medicaid program. The CMO will be responsible for guiding clinical strategy, implementing care delivery, focused on Iowa specific health concerns and population health outcomes. As a member of the Medicaid executive team, the Medicaid Chief Medical Officer establishes and builds connection points to other core program functions within Iowa HHS, including child welfare, public health and community behavioral health.

The Medicaid CMO acts as a key leadership partner in network development, product design, strategic planning, regulatory compliance, policy development, innovations and policy review. The Medicaid CMO will provide leadership and consultation to the Division of Medicaid and Iowa Medicaid contractors related to medical policy. The Medicaid CMO will serve as a consultant to other divisions within the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to enhance prevention services and medical care provided to those served by HHS.

The Medicaid Division is working to align with broader HHS agency goals and objectives, support shared services throughout HHS and define repeatable processes with shared service functions and sister program areas.

Iowa HHS main office is in the heart of downtown Des Moines, a mid-size city, with low cost of living, wonderful access to entertainment, and nestled within range of larger metro areas. Perfect for raising a family, Iowa is a welcoming state where you can enjoy small-town living, with all the benefits of a major city (but without the traffic). The State of Iowa offers a robust benefit package; salary commensurate with experience and moving expenses may be reimbursed, as part of a larger recruitment offering.

Benefits

Working for the State of Iowa comes with its perks. In addition to a competitive salary, you'll enjoy a

comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth :

• Health, Dental, and Vision Coverage : Health and dental insurance packages to keep you and

your family healthy at a low cost with outstanding coverage!

begin, increasing with years of service), sick leave (144 hours / year), and paid holidays (9

days / year).

and the State of Iowa contributes 9.44%) as well as our Retirement Investors Club (RIC),

Employer Sponsored Retirement Plan (the State of Iowa matches dollar for dollar up to

$75 / month).

dependent care expenses.

Assistance Program for personal and professional challenges.

employee discount programs.

For additional information on benefits

to see how we compare with other employers or offers by using our Total Compensation Calculator.

Background Checks

Applicants will be required to complete a background check to be considered for this position.

The State of Iowa is an EEO / AA Employer

HHS values those with "lived experience" and encourages adults who were fostered as youth, foster parents, and / or parents who were in the DHS system to apply. Minorities, women, persons with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply (Hearing and Speech Impaired - Relay Iowa 1-800-735-2942 TDD).

Our agency uses E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit

This is a non-merit position with the Iowa Health & Human Services - Medicaid . Candidates must follow the instructions in the "To Apply" section.

Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Graduation from an accredited school of medicine, completion of an internship program and licensure as a physician by the State of Iowa.

For additional information, please click on this

Why Choose the State of Iowa?

At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits Package Includes :

Competitive Compensation :

Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.

Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendlyGain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.

Health and Wellness :

Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.

Retirement Planning :

We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind.

Paid Time Off :

Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.

Professional Development :

Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) :

We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Diversity and Inclusion :

Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.

Join Us - Elevate Your Career :

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa?to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!