Topeka ? Scott Brunner, who has served as director of the state’s Medicaid and HealthWave programs since 2004, has been named chief financial officer of the Kansas Health Policy Authority.

Brunner, of Topeka, has served in a number of state agencies, including the Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services, governor’s budget office and the Legislative Division of Post Audit. He has a master’s degree in government and public policy from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

“With his immense experience in operations and budget analysis, I am looking forward to working with Scott in his new role with this agency,” said Marcia Nielsen, executive director of KHPA.

The agency was formed recently to operate the Medicaid program and oversee health policy in the state.