Indy Standard

State Representative Brad Barrett, a Republican from Richmond, has sponsored a Senate bill targeting the oversight and administration of Indiana's Medicaid program. The proposed legislation, known as Senate Bill 2, includes measures to enhance transparency and prevent fraudulent activities to safeguard the program's sustainability in the long run.

Indiana's Medicaid program, which has seen enrollment surge to almost two million residents, serves as a crucial health coverage resource. In light of this growth, Barrett introduced the bill to maintain the system's accountability and ensure its sustainability.

Senate Bill 2 mandates that the Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) report fraudulent claims and improper payments annually to the Medicaid Oversight Committee, along with any recovered state and federal funds. The bill also requires the FSSA to regularly cross-reference Medicaid recipient data with state and federal agencies to ensure accuracy and prevent fraud.

"As the chair of the House Public Health Committee, I know how critical it is to ensure our Medicaid program is administered in a way that is both transparent and cost-effective," stated Barrett. "This bill will strengthen oversight and accountability, while improving the overall efficiency of the program to ensure that support is available to Hoosiers who need it most."

Additionally, the bill provides for FSSA to reimburse medical providers at the standard Medicaid fee schedule rate for approved medical claims made prior to the commencement of benefits, provided specific conditions are satisfied. This provision aims to streamline the reimbursement process.

Having passed both the House and Senate, Senate Bill 2 is now awaiting the governor's consideration for enactment. Further information is available at iga.in.gov.