Comptroller finds veterans are not informed of health benefits options
ALBANY - Poor coordination of health benefits for veterans by the state Department of Health (DOH) and local social services departments resulted in many veterans being placed in the state's Medicaid program rather than federal programs, according to an audit released today by State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli. Auditors found dozens of examples where necessary referrals were not made for federal benefits, limiting veterans' health options and costing state and local taxpayers millions.
“Our nation's heroes should be told that they have options when it comes to where they receive the health benefits they need and deserve. They should not be at the mercy of administrative problems, nor should taxpayers," DiNapoli said. “New York needs to do a better job coordinating how veterans are receiving their health benefits. Those who served in our Armed Forces should know all of their possible benefits.”
As part of the state’s Medicaid eligibility process, local departments of social services identify and refer veterans to the state Division of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) or local veterans’ service agencies (VSA) so they can file for federal benefits. Such referrals are critical for enhancing the coordination of veterans’ Medicaid and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, as well as for helping ensure veterans access federal benefits.
In 2002, DOH determined that 15,390 veterans received Medicaid services totaling more than $191 million in 2001. At that time, DOH sent a letter to all local departments of social services commissioners informing them that these expenditures could be reduced if veterans accessed care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The letter told local district commissioners to consider establishing local procedures for educating veterans about their eligibility for health care benefits through the VA and instructed them to assist veterans in obtaining those services. Since then, DOH has done little to ensure that local districts comply with state laws and DOH’s Medicaid policies regarding the coordination of veterans’ health care benefits.
http://www.empirestatenews.net/News2014/20140320-1.htm
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