The U.S. Department of Justice is looking into Arizona’s massive Medicaid scandal, where an estimated $2.5 billion was allegedly stolen by bad actors taking advantage of vulnerable individuals battling addiction. Criminal investigations are ongoing, with treatment and billing records obtained from entities billing AHCCCS. Native American families have been impacted, with accusations of billing fraud connected to substance abuse treatment. One woman received a letter from the DOJ regarding potential fraud with her AHCCCS ID, causing panic and shock. AHCCCS has suspended payments to 257 behavioral health providers for fraud investigations, and Native American groups have marched to raise awareness of the ongoing sober living scheme. Advocate Reva Stewart states that victims may be triggered by the DOJ letter, believing they need to pay back money. AHCCCS was contacted for comment but was unable to provide one. Families are concerned about the implications for their children, with one woman’s eight-year-old son receiving a letter despite never receiving any substance abuse treatment. The woman stayed in a sober living home while attending classes at a behavioral health facility that has been suspended due to fraud allegations. Concerned individuals are taking the issue seriously and are seeking answers regarding potential new trends in Medicaid fraud.
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