In-House Counsel

Description:

Introduction:
Riceland Healthcare System is seeking an experienced In-House Counsel to join our leadership team. This role will serve as the primary legal advisor for the organization, providing guidance on healthcare regulations, contracts, compliance, employment law, and risk management. The In-House Counsel will play a critical role in protecting the organization's interests while supporting our mission to deliver high-quality patient care.

Key Responsibilities:

• Healthcare Compliance & Risk Management
• Advise leadership and departments on federal and state healthcare laws, including HIPAA, Stark Law, Anti-Kickback Statute, CMS, and state licensing regulations.
• Oversee compliance programs and ensure organizational policies align with healthcare regulations.
• Identify legal risks and recommend proactive solutions to mitigate exposure.
• Contracts & Transactions
• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts including physician agreements, vendor contracts, managed care contracts, employment agreements, NDAs, and service agreements.
• Support mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and other strategic business initiatives.
• Corporate Governance
• Support Board of Directors and executive leadership on governance, bylaws, policies, and corporate filings.
• Provide legal oversight on decision-making to ensure compliance with fiduciary and ethical responsibilities.
• Employment & Labor Law
• Provide counsel on employee relations, workplace policies, credentialing, and disciplinary actions.
• Ensure compliance with labor laws, OSHA standards, and workplace regulations.
• Litigation & Dispute Resolution
• Manage litigation, claims, and disputes involving the organization.
• Coordinate with external counsel and oversee litigation budgets.

Education & Training:

• Provide legal training and updates to staff on compliance, privacy, and regulatory changes.
• Promote a culture of compliance across all facilities and departments.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Education: Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Licensure: Member in good standing with the Texas State Bar (or ability to obtain licensure).
• Experience: Minimum of 5–7 years practicing law, with at least 3 years in healthcare law or working with healthcare organizations.
• Strong knowledge of healthcare compliance, corporate law, and employment law.
• Demonstrated experience drafting and negotiating healthcare-related contracts.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to balance legal risk with practical business considerations.

Preferred Attributes

• Prior experience as counsel in a hospital, health system, or healthcare provider group.
• Familiarity with insurance, malpractice, and risk management.
• Strong organizational and leadership skills with the ability to influence across all levels.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced healthcare environment.

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