Overview

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has taken significant steps to enhance oversight and enforcement against fraudulent activities in the home health and hospice sectors. This initiative, led by Supervisors Lindsey P. Horvath and Kathryn Barger, aims to protect vulnerable residents and restore trust in essential healthcare services.

The motion addresses a troubling increase in fraudulent practices, including billing for services not rendered and using stolen identities for patient enrollment, which jeopardizes patient safety and the integrity of the healthcare system.

Key details

  • The motion was advanced by Supervisors Lindsey P. Horvath and Kathryn Barger.
  • It aims to strengthen oversight and enforcement against fraud in the home health and hospice industry.
  • Fraudulent practices include billing for care not delivered and identity theft for patient enrollment.
  • Over 4,700 home health and hospice agencies are currently operating in Los Angeles County.
  • There has been a growing concentration of these agencies in recent years.
  • Supervisor Horvath emphasized that fraud poses a direct threat to vulnerable residents' health and safety.
  • Supervisor Barger stated that fraud in these sectors is a betrayal of trust for patients.
  • The motion directs the Department of Public Health to provide recommendations for improved coordination among various government levels in fraud investigations.
  • It also calls for the County to urge the State of California and federal government to enhance oversight and enforcement.
  • Many providers operate under a federal “deemed status,” which allows private accrediting organizations to conduct compliance reviews.
  • This structure can limit local oversight and delay investigations.
  • The need for stronger coordination and transparency across jurisdictions has been highlighted.

Context

The move comes in response to a notable rise in fraudulent activities within the home health and hospice sectors, which are critical for the care of vulnerable populations. The Board's action reflects a commitment to ensuring that these essential services are delivered with integrity and accountability.

What happens next

The Department of Public Health is expected to report back with recommendations aimed at improving coordination and enforcement efforts against fraud. The County will also formally request stronger oversight measures from state and federal authorities.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the specific recommendations from the Department of Public Health and the timeline for implementation are not confirmed.