GAO: Government Could Save Billions With Better Vetting Of Medicaid Waivers
Also in the news, state Medicaid programs would be able to get federal funding indefinitely to update their enrollment and eligibility computer systems under a proposed rule. Currently, the funding deadline is Dec. 31.
Modern Healthcare:
Better Review Of Medicaid Waivers Could Save CMS Billions: GAO
The CMS could save billions of dollars if it did a better job vetting Medicaid demonstration waiver applications, the Government Accountability Office says in a report released Tuesday. The finding was detailed in the government watchdog's annual report that outlines ways that federal agencies can achieve cost savings. (Dickson, 4/15)
CQ Healthbeat:
States Get More Time To Seek Medicaid Computer System Funds
State Medicaid programs will get additional time to obtain more federal funding to update their enrollment and eligibility computer systems under a proposed rule expected to be published Thursday.
The rule would scrap a Dec. 31 deadline for states to get an enhanced federal matching grant payment of 90 percent of costs for designing and developing updated systems. States also would be able to keep getting a matching rate of 75 percent of the costs of maintaining and operating modernized systems. The proposal would allow the funding to flow indefinitely. (Adams, 4/15)
And in California -
California Healthline:
Lawmakers Effusive Over Medi-Cal Rate
In the first hearing of a bill to raise Medi-Cal rates for providers on Tuesday, the Assembly Committee on Health passed it along with flying colors. (Gorn, 4/15)