Introduction

This position leads and directs the work of the Office of Provider Engagement and Regulation (OPER).  In response to the Opioid overdose crisis in Maryland and in an effort to better coordinate controlled dangerous substance (CDS) prescriber support services and regulations, the Office of Controlled Substance Administration (OCSA) and the Prescription Drug Monitoring/Overdose Prevention Applied Data Programs (PDMP) were merged, effective February 4, 2019, creating OPER.  OPER will continue the functions of both OCSA and PDMP with a more targeted focus on supporting prescribers and dispensers in the initiation and continuation of best practices to ensure appropriate patient use of opioids.

OPER leads multiple initiatives that aim to promote safe controlled substance prescribing and dispensing practices by Maryland healthcare providers, and the OPER Director is the face of those initiatives in the provider community.  The Director applies clinical insights and judgment as a key leader and collaborator for the Department's opioid overdose response initiatives. 

GRADE

PHY 0007

LOCATION OF POSITION

MDH, Office of Provider Engagement & Regulation (OPER), Baltimore, MD

POSITION DUTIES

The Director leads statewide stakeholder engagement with the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) Advisory Board and Technical Advisory Committee, healthcare professional licensing boards and other provider groups, including MedChi's Opioid Committee.  The Director oversees CDS licensing and regulation, development of materials, messaging, and continuing education opportunities for Maryland providers.

This position manages, through subordinate deputies, a total budget of approximately $4.8 million and a staff of approximately 41, residing in permanent State positions and contractual employment.

OPER has the authority to issue Controlled Dangerous Substances (CDS) Registrations to healthcare providers, establishments and researchers who prescribe, administer, dispense, store, label, compound, import, export, manufacture, distribute, and conduct research or instructional activities with CDS.  These CDS registrants are also subject to inspections by OPER staff to ensure compliance with the Controlled Substances Act.  OPER is responsible for all aspects of the ongoing operations and enhancement of data systems designed to prevent and mitigate substance misuse.  With other government agencies, non-profits and professional societies, OPER develops educational initiatives on prescription drug abuse and diversion targeted to healthcare providers and regulators, law enforcement, and the general public.

This position requires extensive leadership, communication, customer service and strategic planning skills, along with experience in program planning, monitoring and analysis.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

About Maryland Department of Health

Maryland’s health care delivery system consists of public and private hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, home health care services, hospices, providers, and health educators, among others. As a public health department, our goal is to improve the health status of every Maryland resident and to ensure access to quality health care. We are responsible for helping each person live a life free from the threat of communicable diseases, tainted foods, and dangerous products. To assist in our mission, we regulate health care providers, facilities, and organizations, and manage direct services to patients, where appropriate.

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