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Tuesday, Nov 12 2019

Full Issue

Trump Allies Cashed In On Hundreds Of Thousands Of Dollars Through Health Contracts With CMS, Verma

Politico obtained documents that detail how much contractors bill CMS under Administrator Seema Verma, who has been a vocal proponent for cutting federal spending by reining in Medicaid programs. One longtime Verma ally was greenlighted to bill as much as $425,000 for about a year’s worth of work.

Politico: Federal Health Contract Funneled Hundreds Of Thousands Of Dollars To Trump Allies

At least eight former White House, presidential transition and campaign officials for President Donald Trump were hired as outside contractors to the federal health department at the cost of hundreds of thousands of dollars per year, according to documents newly obtained by POLITICO. They were among at least 40 consultants who worked on a one-year, $2.25 million contract directed by Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator Seema Verma. The contractors were hired to burnish Verma’s personal brand and provide “strategic communications” support. They charged up to $380 per hour for work traditionally handled by dozens of career civil servants in CMS's communications department. (Diamond and Cancryn, 11/12)

This is part of the Morning Briefing, a summary of health policy coverage from major news organizations. Sign up for an email subscription.
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