Washington
Office of the Washington State Auditor
Published July 8, 2021

Medicaid Program Integrity Examining the Health Care Authority’s oversight of efforts at state agencies

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Overall Conclusion

Medicaid is a significant public assistance program in Washington, requiring robust program integrity efforts to ensure proper use of funds. While HCA has taken steps to improve oversight, there are opportunities to strengthen strategic planning, performance measurement, and oversight of sister agencies and MCOs. Implementing recommended improvements will help ensure Medicaid funds are used effectively and fraud is minimized.

Source Document

Audit Scope

The audit examines Washington State's Medicaid program, including oversight of efforts at the Health Care Authority (HCA), sister agencies such as the Department of Social and Health Services and the Department of Children, Youth, and Families, and managed care organizations (MCOs). It covers activities and oversight responsibilities from 2015 through 2021, focusing on program integrity efforts, strategic planning, performance measurement, and compliance with federal requirements.

Key Findings Summary

1

HCA has not provided federally required oversight of Medicaid program integrity efforts at sister state agencies.

2

HCA has created a Division of Program Integrity but can improve oversight through strategic planning and performance measurement.

3

The Division has expanded efforts with MCOs but can do more to reduce fraud and improper payments.

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AI-Assisted

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AI Scope Summary

The audit aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Washington's Medicaid program integrity efforts, identify gaps in oversight and processes, and recommend strategies to improve fraud detection, compliance, and resource prioritization.

AI-Generated Insight

The report highlights critical gaps in Washington's Medicaid program integrity framework, emphasizing the need for strategic planning, better performance metrics, and comprehensive oversight across all entities involved. Strengthening these areas is essential for safeguarding substantial public funds and enhancing program effectiveness.