Sarah Brooks works with clients on engagements primarily in California. She brings nearly 20 years of experience in federal and state health policy matters with expertise in the managed care arena, hospital and health systems, home and community-based services, and special populations programs. Drawing from her experience through her previous roles at the California Department of Health Care Services, California Association of Public Hospitals and Health Systems, and the Indiana Legislative Services Agency, Sarah works on initiatives in Medicaid managed care, Medicaid financing, and provider policy and reimbursement.
What brought you to Sellers Dorsey?
Having worked in both the public and private sectors previously, Sellers Dorsey was intriguing to me because it provided me an opportunity to work with different types of clients on a regular basis. I knew working here would allow me to expand my scope and work on projects at the national level, while at the same time maintaining the majority of my focus in California. I had also worked previously with several Sellers Dorsey staff members and thought highly of them, and knew they would be good partners to work with.
What’s your special area of expertise?
I would offer strategic planning and program implementation as my special areas of expertise. Having gained significant experience in implementing many programs during my time at the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), I was able to build on the knowledge that I gained in the subject matter/program areas earlier on in my career. I also have a great deal of knowledge when it comes to managed care, having been responsible for all of the Medicaid health plans in California.
Who are your typical clients?
Public and private entities, predominantly located in California, including states, managed care plans, counties, associations, providers, and others.
What have you worked on recently?
Recently I worked on a project specific to health equity and disparities. The project allowed me to broaden my knowledge and expertise on what I consider to be a very important and significant issue for all people, but in particular for lower-income individuals who may not always have a voice for themselves when accessing care.
What do you like about working at Sellers Dorsey?
I love the team that I work with. Of course, I enjoy working with my California peeps. But I love being a part of a larger team of people that I can rely on to provide me with not just knowledge and expertise but also perspective on new ways of looking at things.
How has your work changed over time?
The work that I am engaging in has evolved during my time at Sellers Dorsey. When I first started, I was the sole person on “my team” in California. We now have a team of five which makes coming to work on a daily basis even more fun.
What is one important thing you have learned during your time at Sellers Dorsey? Alternatively, is there something else you would like to share?
I am obsessed with Pembroke Welsh Corgis; yes, the dogs that the Queen of England has – they are small/medium sized dogs with short legs and long bodies. I have loved them since being a child when I was lucky enough to have one as my first pet. Today, I live with my 15 ½ year old Corgi, Chewy. And while we haven’t added another Corgi to the family, I do sprint anytime I see one on the street so that I can say hello.
