Chronic Backlogs In Kansas’ Privatized Medicaid Program Prompt Threats Of Fines Against Contractor
Unprocessed applications that have delayed payments to providers have piled up since Maryland-based Maximus took over KanCare operations in 2016. Elsewhere, Utah residents will vote on Medicaid expansion. And a technical glitch has hindered public comments over Florida's planned changes to Medicaid.
KCUR:
KanCare Contractor Must Fix Backlog Problems Soon Or Face Fines
The company that processes applications for Kansas’ privatized KanCare Medicaid program faces potentially steep fines if it doesn’t fix problems, responsible for massive backlogs, by the end of this week. Maximus, a Maryland-based company that specializes in managing “human service programs” for states and the federal government, has operated the “KanCare Clearinghouse” since 2016. There have been problems from the start. (McLean, 5/30)
The Hill:
Medicaid Expansion Qualifies For Ballot In Utah
A measure to expand Medicaid under ObamaCare in Utah will appear on the ballot in November after it was certified as having enough signatures. Liberal groups hailed the announcement from the state’s lieutenant governor as they hope to make the deep-red state the 33rd to expand the health insurance program for the poor under the health law. (Sullivan, 5/30)
Health News Florida:
Website Glitch Prevents Public Comments On Florida’s Medicaid Changes
The National Health Law Program sent a letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services on Tuesday that said it received multiple reports from individuals and organizations that were unable to submit comments. The 30-day public comment period ends on June 5 and the letter asks that the deadline be extended for at least one week after repairs to the website. (Ochoa, 5/30)
