Federal watchdog faults Maine for ‘improper’ Medicaid payments

(The Center Square) — Maine Republicans are calling for an independent investigation after a federal watchdog faulted state officials for making nearly $46 million in “improper” Medicaid payments for services to autistic children.

A new report from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, released Thursday, found nearly 100 Medicaid payments for autistic rehabilitative and community support services did not fully comply with federal and state requirements. The federal watchdog directed the state to repay at least $28.7 million for the federal share of the payments.

“The integrity of Medicaid programs is non-negotiable. Improper payments undermine public trust and divert resources from those who need them most,” Inspector General T. March Bell said in a statement. “We expect full compliance with federal and state requirements to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent appropriately and vulnerable children receive the care they deserve.”

The agency said the in...