New Mexico's Medicaid Leadership Shake-Up: What's Next?

New Mexico's Medicaid and Behavioral Health Services divisions have seen another change at the top. Alanna Dancis, the state's chief medical officer, is now stepping in as interim director after Dana Flannery's sudden resignation. This is the second leadership shift in less than two years, raising questions about the stability of the role. Flannery's tenure was relatively short, lasting just over a year and a half. She came to New Mexico from Arizona, where she played a key role in managing the state's COVID-19 response. Her resignation, citing personal and family responsibilities, highlights a common issue in Medicaid administration: high turnover rates. Nationally, Medicaid directors often stay in their positions for little over a year due to the program's complexity and the constant policy changes at the federal level.Before her appointment as director, Flannery worked on a contract basis, earning a total of $187, 737. As director, her salary saw two increases, reaching approximately $224, 952 annually. The position is now advertised with a salary range of $150, 000 to $175, 000, reflecting the challenges and responsibilities of the role. Dancis, a former nurse at the University of New Mexico Hospital, has applied for the permanent position. She brings a unique perspective as the first nurse practitioner in the country to hold a chief medical officer position. Her focus is on maintaining health care coverage for New Mexicans and preparing for upcoming federal changes under H. R. 1. The frequent changes in leadership can make it difficult to implement long-term strategies. However, Dancis seems determined to finish the work started by previous directors and ensure a smooth transition. The coming months will be crucial in shaping the future of Medicaid in New Mexico.