Pennsylvania Office of Inspector General Recovers $7.3 Million in Medical Assistance Long Term Care Funds

HARRISBURG, Pa., July 17, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Inspector General Michael A. Sprow announced today that the Office of Inspector General recovered more than $7.3 million in taxpayer funds for the fiscal year 2013-2014 from individuals who were ineligible to receive long term care assistance.

In addition, the commonwealth realized over $2.6 million in cost savings for the same period.  Cost savings represent future use of commonwealth funds that would have been expended for Long Term Care services on behalf of an ineligible individual.

Pennsylvania's Long Term Care program provides nursing home and in-house care for medically and financially eligible individuals.  Each year, the program pays out millions of dollars to ensure that elderly and disabled Pennsylvanians receive the care they need and deserve.

The Office of Inspector General receives referrals from the Department of Public Welfare (DPW) where it is suspected or verified that Long Term Care Medical Assistance benefits were inappropriately provided to an individual. 

In some instances, individuals or their personal representatives fail to disclose to the commonwealth income and/or assets such as real estate, stocks, or pensions in order to qualify the individual for Medical Assistance benefits. 

When this occurs, the Office of Inspector General investigates and recovers those taxpayer funds that were inappropriately provided.

The Office of Inspector General's Bureau of Fraud Prevention and Prosecution is responsible for investigating welfare fraud and conducting collection activities for programs administered by, or contracted through, DPW. 

The Office of Inspector General also relies on tips from concerned citizens. To report suspected fraud, call the Welfare Fraud Tipline at 1-800-932-0582. Callers may remain anonymous.

Visit the Pennsylvania Office of Inspector General online at www.oig.state.pa.us.

Media contact: James H. Timko, 717-787-6835

SOURCE Pennsylvania Office of Inspector General