Commentary– Last week, New Mexico’s state senate democrats sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services requesting an investigation into the Martinez administration’s upheaval of behavioral health services. The letter follows a similar request by New Mexico’s congressional democrats made last month. Both letters cite serious concerns regarding NM’s human services department’s (HSD) suspension of funding to 15 behavioral health providers in June, 2013 amid “allegations of credible fraud” and the impact the disruption of services had on those in need of services.
Thirteen providers accused of fraud have been exonerated by the NM Attorney General’s office, however, the decision to cut their Medicaid funding, without due process, has disrupted care for thousands of vulnerable New Mexicans and has resulted in the loss of numerous jobs.
“HSD’s callous actions in the months before, during and after the takeover negatively affected the providers and their employees’ financial condition, but more importantly they seriously harmed the mental health of those who rely on those services,” said Senate Majority Leader Michael S. Sanchez (D-29-Valencia, Bernalillo). “It’s important that HSD’s actions be reviewed by an independent federal agency so that such a devastating disruption will not be repeated anywhere in the country,” he added.
Following the suspension of the providers’ Medicaid funding, HSD recruited five out-of-state providers to provide behavioral health services. However, two of the out-of-state providers have left the state. One of those providers has filed a lawsuit against United Healthcare and its subsidiary OptumHealth claiming fraud and misrepresentation. “I expect the lawsuit will reveal many critical details of what actually occurred during the takeover. My hope is that those who should be held accountable for their actions will be,” said Senate Pro Tem Mary Kay Papen (D-38-Dona Ana).
“We look forward to a thorough investigation by the federal agencies charged with oversight of Medicaid dollars,” said Senate Majority Whip Michael Padilla (D-14-Bernalillo). “It is not only a matter of making sure rules and procedures are properly followed, but that the lives of those most impacted by the disruption of services are protected,” he added.
NM Senate Democratic Caucus Letter to Secretary of Health and Human Services
Democratic Federal Delegation Letter to Secretary of Health and Human Services Page 1
Democratic Federal Delegation Letter to Secretary of Health and Human Services Page 2