PHOENIX (AZFamily) — New questions surround Arizona’s spending of $15 billion in taxpayer money after an administrative law judge determined issues with the way the state awards Medicaid contracts to health care providers.
State Sen. T.J Shope, a Republican, says he is investigating alleged mismanagement of taxpayer dollars and potential conflicts of interest with Gov. Katie Hobbs’ administration.
The judge concluded that there were “serious flaws” with the way the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) awarded contracts for health care services for thousands of elderly and physically disabled individuals.
The ruling says state lacked transparency and had a flawed ranking system when it evaluated bids.
“In this particular case, I would forget about Republicans and Democrats and concentrate on what the judge said,” said Marcus Dell’Artino, a longtime political consultant in Arizona. “When a judge enters the fray and makes a determination, I think that adds a lot of credibility to arguments in this case.”
The judge recommended AHCCCS start the bidding process over again, but state officials have not announced plans to do so. Instead, the transition to the new providers has been pushed back until next year.
Health care providers who did not receive bids, including Mercy Care, Banner Health, and Blue Cross Blue Shield, have filed a motion in Maricopa County Superior Court seeking legal relief.
Arizona’s Family contacted Hobbs’ office for comment but was told it could not comment because the matter involves pending litigation.
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Publish date : 2024-09-25 14:10:00
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