Are you an experienced public advocate who is well-versed in the field of behavioral healthcare policy?
We invite you to explore this innovative and pivotal role to our state.
The State of Connecticut is seeking a Behavioral Health Advocate as the head of a new independent state agency, the Office of the Behavioral Health Advocate. This a highly public, high-profile position, and is subject to a statutorily-defined selection process. The Office of the Behavioral Health Advocate shall be under the direction of the Behavioral Health Advocate who shall be appointed by the Governor, with the approval of the General Assembly.
THE ROLE:
The Behavioral Health Advocate is a hands-on Chief Executive Officer, principal public spokesperson, and policy and legislative advocate. The Office of the Behavioral Health Advocate, administratively within the Insurance Department, assists members of the public with accessing mental and behavioral health care resources and providers with timely access and receiving payments for services provided. Your expertise and leadership will be crucial in addressing the needs of individuals with behavioral health challenges and ensuring they receive the care and support they deserve.
The Behavioral Health Advocate may:
- Assist mental and behavioral health care providers, who are licensed, certified or registered in the state, with receiving payments for claims submitted to health carriers for services provided to covered patients
- Assist state residents with accessing mental and behavioral health care and related resources
- Provide information to the public, agencies, legislators and others regarding the problems and concerns of mental and behavioral health care providers and patients and make recommendations for resolving such problems and concerns
- Analyze and monitor the development and implementation of federal, state and local laws, regulations and policies relating to mental and behavioral health care and recommend changes as necessary
- Coordinate services with the Healthcare Advocate to assist individuals with obtaining access to and coverage for mental and behavioral health care services and to fulfill the duties set forth in subsections (e) and (g) of Sec. 38a-1041 of the Connecticut General Statutes
- Ensure that mental and behavioral health care providers and patients have timely access to the services provided by the office
- Establish a toll-free number, or any other free calling option, to allow access to the services provided by the Behavioral Health Advocate
- Pursue administrative remedies on behalf of and with the consent of any mental and behavioral health care providers and patients
- Adopt regulations, pursuant to Chapter 54 of the Connecticut General Statutes, to carry out the provisions of this section
- Take any other actions necessary to fulfill the purposes of this section
This is a rare opportunity to assume a politically independent leadership position with a high-functioning, well-respected, historically established independent state agency. The position carries a clear possibility over time to become recognized as a key independent leader and resource in the Connecticut community on matters of state and federal behavioral healthcare advocacy.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
- The Behavioral Health Advocate shall be an elector of the State of Connecticut.
- NOTE: An Elector is defined as a person who is qualified to vote during an election.
- The Behavioral Health Advocate shall have expertise and experience in mental or behavioral health care, health insurance, and advocacy for parity in mental and behavioral health access and outcomes.
POSITION HIGHLIGHTS:
- Monday - Friday
- Full time (40 hours/week)
- First Shift
- Location: Hartford, CT
- Hybrid opportunity
- Click here to view the Connecticut Handbook for Appointed Officials.
- Click here to view Appointed Officials Resources.
HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR STATE
Connecticut offers you a blend of professional advancement and a high-quality lifestyle. As a state we are renowned for our top-tier medical facilities and ample opportunities for career growth and development. Beyond professional prospects, Connecticut boasts a high standard of living, featuring safe communities, excellent schools, and a diverse range of cultural and recreational activities. This combination of professional excellence and a well-rounded lifestyle make Connecticut an appealing destination for those who want to thrive both in their careers and personal lives.
There are so many things to love about living, working, and playing in our state including these Key Facts and Figures:
- #4 in the U.S. for employees with advanced degrees
- #3 in the country for quality of K-12 education
- #5 for quality of life in the U.S.
- 2,000 miles of hiking/bike paths
- 618 miles of scenic coastline
- 21 world-class art museums
- Five Tony-Award winning regional theatres, and more!
Check out CTVisit! They share so much valuable information on what it's like to work, play, and live in our State!