Senior Network Pricing Consultant - Remote CST/EST preferred

$91,700 - $163,700 / year

Own and maintain Out of Network and hospital based physician pricing models, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and compliance with Federal No Surprises Act and state Surprise Medical Bill regulations
Apply deep knowledge of OON and surprise billing programs to support pricing strategy and dispute resolution initiatives
Perform complex financial and pricing analyses to evaluate reimbursement strategies and network configurations across hospital, ancillary, and physician provider types
Develop, enhance, and maintain analytical and financial models, including SQL based reporting and advanced Excel formulas/macros
Independently produce ad hoc analyses and customized reports to support enterprise and pricing needs, including provider terminations
Partner cross functionally to prepare insights, research, and data driven talking points that inform pricing and network strategy decisions
Serve as a subject matter expert for network pricing, confidently presenting findings, resolving model issues, and translating complex analysis into concise recommendations for leadership

You'll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear direction on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant work experience
5+ years of experience in healthcare pricing, financial analysis, network pricing, or healthcare economics
Experience developing and interpreting financial and pricing models to support contract valuation and network strategy
Advanced Excel skills with demonstrated ability to analyze large, complex datasets efficiently
Working experience with SQL to support ad hoc analysis and reporting
Solid communication skills with experience presenting complex analytical findings to stakeholders
Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results in a fast paced environment
Ability to work Central or Eastern Time Zone hours

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with provider payment methodologies, including physician, hospital, and ancillary reimbursement
Experience with PPM (Physician Pricing Model) and UCRT (Unit Cost Reporting Tool)
Experience leveraging enterprise approved automation or AI tools to improve efficiency in analytical workflows
Knowledge of Out of Network pricing, surprise billing regulations, and medical coding (e.g., CPT, DRG, ICD 10)
Proficiency with advanced data modeling tools (e.g., Power Pivot, data models, large databases)
Solid consultative, problem solving, and cross functional collaboration skills
All employees working remotely will be required to adhere to UnitedHealth Group's Telecommuter Policy

Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). No matter where or when you begin a career with us, you'll find a far-reaching choice of benefits and incentives. The salary for this role will range from $91,700 to $163,700 annually based on full-time employment. We comply with all minimum wage laws as applicable.

Application Deadline: This will be posted for a minimum of 2 business days or until a sufficient candidate pool has been collected. Job posting may come down early due to volume of applicants.

At UnitedHealth Group, our mission is to help people live healthier lives and make the health system work better for everyone. We believe everyone-of every race, gender, sexuality, age, location and income-deserves the opportunity to live their healthiest life. Today, however, there are still far too many barriers to good health which are disproportionately experienced by people of color, historically marginalized groups and those with lower incomes. We are committed to mitigating our impact on the environment and enabling and delivering equitable care that addresses health disparities and improves health outcomes - an enterprise priority reflected in our mission.

UnitedHealth Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer under applicable law and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.

UnitedHealth Group is a drug - free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.

Share this job

Related Jobs

Surgical Tech

Part-time

2 days ago

Surgical Technologist

Children's Minnesota Minneapolis, MN

About Children’s Minnesota Children’s Minnesota is one of the largest pediatric health systems in the United States and the only health system in Minnesota to provide care exclusively to children, from before birth through young adulthood. An independent and not-for-profit system since 1924, Children’s Minnesota is one system serving kids throughout the Upper Midwest at two free-standing hospitals, nine primary care clinics, multiple specialty clinics and seven rehabilitation sites. As The Kids Experts™ in our region, Children’s Minnesota is regularly ranked by U.S. News & World Report as a top children’s hospital. Find us on Facebook @childrensminnesota or on Twitter and Instagram @childrensmn. Please visit childrensMN.org . Children’s Minnesota is proud to be recognized by Modern Healthcare as one of 2023’s Top Diversity Leaders. The national honor recognizes the top diverse healthcare executives and organizations influencing public policy, care delivery, and promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in their organizations and the industry. Department Overview The main operating room at Children’s Minnesota Minneapolis Hospital includes nine surgical suites and one procedure room. Children’s surgery centers are the first and only in Minnesota to be verified as a Level I Children’s Surgery Center by the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Children’s Surgery Verification Quality Improvement Program. Achieving Level I verification is the highest level of distinction for health systems that perform complex surgical procedures in newborns, children and teens. Children's Minneapolis is a Level 1 designated Pediatric Trauma center At our Minneapolis surgery center, we provide surgical care for children ranging from fetuses and infants to young adults. Surgeries include everything from routine procedures, such as appendectomies, ear tubes and tonsillectomies, to innovative, state-of-the-art procedures, such as neuro, craniofacial, cochlear implantation and fetal surgeries. In a typical year, we perform more than 10,000 surgical procedures. Children's Minneapolis is a Level 1 designated Pediatric Trauma center. Our nurses, surgical technologists and providers all handle a variety of cases, providing opportunities to grow and make a difference for children and their families every day. We value teamwork, open communication, safety and respect. We embrace an environment that encourages learning and professional growth and are committed to providing excellent care to our patients and families. Position Summary The Surgical Technologist is an integral member of the patient care team. The surgical technologist provides highly skilled intra-operative technical expertise and care for the surgical patient through planning and implementation of the needs of the surgical procedure. The wide variety of skills include; assisting the surgeon, set up and scrub all surgical procedures, and may specialize in a specific field such as cardiac or neurological surgery, or in addition a laser specialist, participates in specialty procedures outside the operating room. Functions as a call team member for all emergency procedures. The surgical technologist operates as the sterile team member on all surgical procedures. Responsible for aseptic technique and maintaining a sterile field while constantly anticipating surgeons needs. Utilizes knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology to anticipate the patients and surgeons needs before they arise to attain the best outcome for the patient and keeping surgical time to a minimum. The expertise of the Surgical Technologist provides the safest delivery of high quality care for the surgical patient. -Apply understanding of anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology to assisting surgeons with surgical procedures. -Proficient in the application of sterile technique in all aspects of patient care. -Competent in the use of surgical instruments, supplies and equipment to provide patient care, with the ability to trouble-shoot malfunctions as they arise. -Function as preceptor/mentor to the scrub role for new surgical technologists and registered nurses. -Communicates effectively as a team member, works collaboratively with the surgical team of physicians, nurses and anesthesia team. -Graduate of an accredited surgical technology program -Surgical Technologist certification preferred, but not required -BLS certified The posted salary represents a market competitive range based on salary survey benchmark data for similar roles in the local or national market. Annual salaries displayed are based on full-time employment (40 standard hrs per week). Annual salaries for part-time positions will be prorated based on the employee’s scheduled weekly hours in relation to the full-time standard. When determining individual pay rates, we carefully consider a wide range of factors including but not limited to market indicators for the specific role, the skills, education, training, credentials and experience of the candidate, internal equity and organizational needs. In addition to your salary, this position may be eligible for medical, dental, vision, retirement, and other fringe benefits. Positions that require night, weekend or on-call work may be eligible for shift differentials or premium pay. All job offers are contingent upon successful completion of an occupational health assessment, drug screen, background investigation, and compliance with the U.S. Government Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification. Children’s Minnesota is proud to be an equal opportunity employer whose staff is representative of its community and considers qualified applicants for open positions without regard to race, color, creed, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, disability, pregnancy, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Casual Surgical Technologist

Children's Minnesota Minnetonka, MN

About Children’s Minnesota Children’s Minnesota is one of the largest pediatric health systems in the United States and the only health system in Minnesota to provide care exclusively to children, from before birth through young adulthood. An independent and not-for-profit system since 1924, Children’s Minnesota is one system serving kids throughout the Upper Midwest at two free-standing hospitals, nine primary care clinics, multiple specialty clinics and seven rehabilitation sites. As The Kids Experts™ in our region, Children’s Minnesota is regularly ranked by U.S. News & World Report as a top children’s hospital. Find us on Facebook @childrensminnesota or on Twitter and Instagram @childrensmn. Please visit childrensMN.org . Children’s Minnesota is proud to be recognized by Modern Healthcare as one of 2023’s Top Diversity Leaders. The national honor recognizes the top diverse healthcare executives and organizations influencing public policy, care delivery, and promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in their organizations and the industry. Department Overview Children’s – Minnetonka is a multi-specialty ambulatory surgery center consisting of five operating rooms. Children’s surgery centers are the first and only in Minnesota to be verified as a Level I Children’s Surgery Center by the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Children’s Surgery Verification Quality Improvement Program. Achieving Level I verification is the highest level of distinction for health systems that perform complex surgical procedures in newborns, children and teens. The pre/post op staff at Children’s – Minnetonka rotates working in three areas: PlayWait (admitting), PACU (post op recovery) and PH II (recovery, discharge). Our nurses have the ability to work through all specialties in a fast-paced outpatient setting, meeting the needs of children ages 3 months to 20 years of age before and after surgery. In 2018, we performed 3200 surgeries in these specialty areas: ear, nose and throat (ENT); dental and oral surgery; endoscopy; colonoscopy; plastics; general surgery; ophthalmology; physiatry; and urology. Children’s – Minnetonka has a highly experienced, dedicated nursing team. We value teamwork, open communication, safety and respect. We embrace an environment that encourages learning and professional growth. Our team is committed to providing excellent care to our patients and families. Position Summary The Surgical Technologist is an integral member of the patient care team. The surgical technologist provides highly skilled intra-operative technical expertise and care for the surgical patient through planning and implementation of the needs of the surgical procedure. The wide variety of skills include; assisting the surgeon, set up and scrub all surgical procedures, and may specialize in a specific field such as cardiac or neurological surgery, or in addition a laser specialist, participates in specialty procedures outside the operating room. Functions as a call team member for all emergency procedures. The surgical technologist operates as the sterile team member on all surgical procedures. Responsible for aseptic technique and maintaining a sterile field while constantly anticipating surgeons needs. Utilizes knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology to anticipate the patients and surgeons needs before they arise to attain the best outcome for the patient and keeping surgical time to a minimum. The expertise of the Surgical Technologist provides the safest delivery of high quality care for the surgical patient. -Apply understanding of anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology to assisting surgeons with surgical procedures. -Proficient in the application of sterile technique in all aspects of patient care. -Competent in the use of surgical instruments, supplies and equipment to provide patient care, with the ability to trouble-shoot malfunctions as they arise. -Function as preceptor/mentor to the scrub role for new surgical technologists and registered nurses. -Communicates effectively as a team member, works collaboratively with the surgical team of physicians, nurses and anesthesia team. -Graduate of an accredited surgical technology program -Surgical Technologist certification preferred, but not required -BLS certified The posted salary represents a market competitive range based on salary survey benchmark data for similar roles in the local or national market. Annual salaries displayed are based on full-time employment (40 standard hrs per week). Annual salaries for part-time positions will be prorated based on the employee’s scheduled weekly hours in relation to the full-time standard. When determining individual pay rates, we carefully consider a wide range of factors including but not limited to market indicators for the specific role, the skills, education, training, credentials and experience of the candidate, internal equity and organizational needs. In addition to your salary, this position may be eligible for medical, dental, vision, retirement, and other fringe benefits. Positions that require night, weekend or on-call work may be eligible for shift differentials or premium pay. All job offers are contingent upon successful completion of an occupational health assessment, drug screen, background investigation, and compliance with the U.S. Government Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification. Children’s Minnesota is proud to be an equal opportunity employer whose staff is representative of its community and considers qualified applicants for open positions without regard to race, color, creed, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, disability, pregnancy, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Network Pricing Consultant - Remote in CST/EST preferred

UnitedHealthcare Independence, OH

$72,800 - $130,000 / year

At UnitedHealthcare, we're simplifying the health care experience, creating healthier communities and removing barriers to quality care. The work you do here impacts the lives of millions of people for the better. Come build the health care system of tomorrow, making it more responsive, affordable and optimized. Ready to make a difference? Join us to start Caring. Connecting. Growing together . This opportunity is all about complexity and meaningful impact. You will play a key role in accurately and effectively pricing our provider network across East Region markets, including Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio. Success in this role requires strong analytical thinking, creativity in interpreting contract structures, and the ability to leverage available resources to develop accurate and reliable pricing. As a Network Pricing Consultant, you will support and validate Provider Network (hospital, physician, ancillary facilities, etc.) contracting and unit cost management activities through financial modeling, analysis, and reporting. You will conduct unit cost and contract valuation analysis to support negotiations and unit cost management strategies, while managing unit cost budgets, targets, and performance reporting. Challenge can often be its own reward, but why settle for challenge alone when you can also be supported, mentored, and developed in a fast-paced and impactful career? With UnitedHealth Group, you can expect all of the above, every day. Here's your opportunity to combine analytical expertise and collaborative problem-solving as you strike the balance between health care costs and resources. In this role, you'll ensure that health care contracts are priced accurately and fairly for all involved, backed by the resources and stability of a Fortune 5 leader. While this role primarily supports East Region markets, you'll enjoy the flexibility to work remotely from anywhere in the U.S. Primary Responsibilities Support network pricing strategies and tactics in collaboration with local network field leaders and network managers Analyze financial impact of provider contracts Evaluate financial impact of corporate initiatives and external regulations Review payment appendices and develop options for various contracting approaches and methodologies Communicate financial impact findings and insights to stakeholder groups Conduct financial and network pricing modeling, analysis, and reporting Provide mentorship and engage in detailed peer review activities Perform unit cost and contract valuation analysis to support network contracting and unit cost management strategies Lead large and complex analytical projects to support key business objectives Influence pricing strategies and rate development by identifying opportunities or safeguarding favorable structures Collaborate with Network Management to strategize rates or contract methodologies Review competitive analysis to determine appropriate provider pricing You'll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear direction on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in. Required Qualifications Undergraduate degree in Math, Statistics, Finance, Economics, or related field 4+ years of analytical experience 3+ years of experience with provider payment methodologies and healthcare products Experience presenting to internal or external stakeholders Financial impact analysis and data manipulation skills Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel Ability to interpret financial modeling results and develop forecasts Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously Ability to research and solve problems independently Preferred Qualifications Experience with advanced statistical functions for financial modeling Experience with various payment methodology types Knowledge of commercial, Medicare, and Medicaid PPO/HMO revenue and expense patterns Solid interpersonal, collaboration, negotiation, and communication abilities All employees working remotely will be required to adhere to UnitedHealth Group's Telecommuter Policy Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). No matter where or when you begin a career with us, you'll find a far-reaching choice of benefits and incentives. The salary for this role will range from $72,800 to $130,000 annually based on full-time employment. We comply with all minimum wage laws as applicable. Application Deadline: This will be posted for a minimum of 2 business days or until a sufficient candidate pool has been collected. Job posting may come down early due to volume of applicants. At UnitedHealth Group, our mission is to help people live healthier lives and make the health system work better for everyone. We believe everyone-of every race, gender, sexuality, age, location and income-deserves the opportunity to live their healthiest life. Today, however, there are still far too many barriers to good health which are disproportionately experienced by people of color, historically marginalized groups and those with lower incomes. We are committed to mitigating our impact on the environment and enabling and delivering equitable care that addresses health disparities and improves health outcomes - an enterprise priority reflected in our mission. UnitedHealth Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer under applicable law and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations. UnitedHealth Group is a drug - free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.

Certified Surgical Technologist / CST - Labor and Delivery - Full Time, Nights

Texas Health Resources Fort Worth, TX

26006151 Certified Surgical Technologist CST – Labor & Delivery Bring your passion to THR so we are Better + Together!! Work location: Texas Health Alliance: 10864 Texas Health Trail Fort Worth, Texas 76244 Work hours: Full Time (36 hours); Nights 6:45pm – 7:15am Department Highlights 14 Labor and Delivery Rooms 4 OB/ED bays – with OB Hospitalists 24/7 2 OR Suites Average between 170-175 deliveries per month 41-bed Postpartum/Newborn, Couplet Care Level III Maternal designation Level III NICU Here’s What You Need High School Diploma or Equivalent and was employed to practice surgical technology in a health care facility before September 1, 2009 required OR Graduate of an accredited surgery technology program, Vocational Nurse Program or graduate/completion of a military training program in surgical technology required AND CLIAFE Must comply with CLIA regulations regarding foreign education equivalency required 1 year current operating room experience preferred Labor and Delivery experience preferred CST – Certified Surgical Technologist -CST (NBSTSA) or TS-C (NCCT) and graduate of an accredited surgical tech program OR CST – Certified Surgical Technologist - CST (NBSTSA) or TS-C (NCCT) and was employed to practice surgical technology in a health care facility before September 1, 2009 OR CST – Certified Surgical Technologist - CST (NBSTSA) or TS-C (NCCT) and graduate/completion of a military training program in surgical technology OR LVN – Licensed Vocational Nurse upon hire AND BCLS – Basic Cardiac Life Support prior to providing independent patient care and maintained quarterly AND CPI – Crisis Prevention Intervention Training maintained annually 90 days required What You Will Do Intra-operatively displays skills and behavior conducive to desirable outcome. Nursing Process: Assists in providing peri-operative care for a patient population that includes Infants, Pediatrics, Adults and Geriatrics. Preoperatively assists RN circulator in formulating plan of care. Professional accountability: Assists as needed in coordinating patient care peri-operatively and assumes responsibility and accountability for behavior in order to maintain standards for professional nursing practice. Post-operatively follows proper procedures for care of instruments, supplies and equipment. Under supervision, assists RN circulator with post-operative duties. Infection Prevention: Assists in the delivery of nursing care in a manner that minimizes the risk of transfer of infection and accidental contamination. Safety: Assists in delivering care in a manner which protects the patient from injury. Continuous Improvement: Care is provided with an emphasis on continually improving quality, service, and cost effectiveness. Age Specific Care: Demonstrates competence in assisting with the performance of age-appropriate patient care that is specific to the unique physiological and anatomic aspects of the life from the very young to the older adult. Additional Perks Of Being a Texas Health Employee Benefits include 401(k), PTO, medical, dental, Paid Parental Leave, flex spending, tuition reimbursement, Student Loan Repayment Program as well as several other benefits. At Texas Health, our people make this a great place to work every day. Our inclusive, supportive, people-first, excellence-driven culture make Texas Health a great place to work. A supportive, team environment with outstanding opportunities for growth. Entity Highlights Texas Health Alliance is a 151-bed, full-service hospital serving our community since 2012. Our location in North Fort Worth provides convenient care to people in North Fort Worth, Keller, North Richland Hills, Haslet, Roanoke and surrounding areas. We’re Joint Commission-accredited with a Level III neonatal intensive care unit. Plus, we’re a Baby Friendly Facility and Pathways to Excellence designated hospital. We provide wellness services, outpatient surgery and women’s imaging services and are a top choice in North Fort Worth for radiology services and much more. Learn More About Our Culture, Benefits, And Recent Awards. Do you still have questions or concerns? Feel free to email your questions to recruitment@texashealth.org.

Surgical Tech

Full-time

23 hours ago

Surgical Technologist Operating Room

WVUH West Virginia University Hospitals South Charleston, WV

Welcome! We’re excited you’re considering an opportunity with us! To apply to this position and be considered, click the Apply button located above this message and complete the application in full. Below, you’ll find other important information about this position. Provides intraoperative care to patients by functioning as the scrub person assisting the surgical team during an operative procedure. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION, CERTIFICATION, EXPERIENCE, AND/OR LICENSURE: 1. Completion of a Licensed Practical Nurse program , OR completion of a Surgical Technology program, OR completion of a Registered Nurse program, OR High School Diploma or Equivalent and six (6) months of previous scrub experience. 2. Obtain certification in Basic Life Support within 30 days of hire date. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: EXPERIENCE: 1. Surgical Technology experience. CORE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: The statements described here are intended to describe the general nature of work being performed by people assigned to this position . They are not intended to be constructed as an all-inclusive list of all responsibilities and duties . Other duties may be assigned. 1. Utilizes quality aseptic technique when working in an unsterile or sterile role in the OR. 2. Assists the circulating RN in monitoring technique of all persons in the OR to maintain a sterile field. 3. Performs sponge, instrument, and needle counts with the circulating RN following established guidelines. 4. Assists with gowning and gloving surgeons and positioning equipment and instruments. 5. Passes sterile instruments to the surgical team during a surgical procedure. 6. Assists with transportation and positioning of the patients to include assisting the surgical team by holding retractors and position of operative limb under direction of surgeon 7. Prepares supplies and equipment for surgical procedure following preference cards. 8. Assists with sterilization and maintenance of sterile and non-sterile supplies and equipment. 9. Monitors inventory; orders; and restocks supplies, instruments, and equipment. 10. Removes out-of-date items and discards or reprocesses following established guidelines. 11. Assists with the general cleaning duties of the department. 12. Performs equipment checks as assigned. 13. Assists with the proper recording of patient charges. 14. Call with a response time of 30 minutes. For facilities with specialty accreditation requirements: 1. Completion of annual required education related to specialty accreditation as defined by accreditation standards . Training may be completed through CBLs, trainings , In-services, and competency validation. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 1. Capable of prolonged periods of standing and walking. 2. Ability to lift up to 40-pounds and push/pull heavy loaded carts up to 200 lbs. 3. Possess visual, hearing, and oral acuity along with manual dexterity and technical ability. 4. Ability to wear lead for extended periods of time. WORKING ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Additional Job Description: Scheduled Weekly Hours: 36 Shift: Exempt/Non-Exempt: United States of America (Non-Exempt) Company: THOM Thomas Hospitals Cost Center: 72 THOM Nursing Operating Room Address: 4605 Maccorkle Ave SW South Charleston West Virginia Equal Opportunity Employer West Virginia University Health System and its subsidiaries (collectively "WVUHS") is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local fair employment practices laws. WVUHS strictly prohibits and does not tolerate discrimination against employees, applicants, or any other covered persons because of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, ethnicity, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), age, physical or mental disability, citizenship, past, current, or prospective service in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. All WVUHS employees, other workers, and representatives are prohibited from engaging in unlawful discrimination. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, training, promotion, discipline, compensation, benefits, and termination of employment.