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Florida probes Medicaid payment delays affecting South Florida autism therapy providers
Providers say claims stalled after Molina Healthcare took over administration of Florida’s Children’s Medical Services program on Oct. 1. An attorney says nearly 700 providers report not being paid, raising concerns that children could lose continuity of care.
South Florida autism therapy providers say they have gone without payment since Molina Healthcare took over administration of Florida’s Children’s Medical Services program on Oct. 1, a delay state officials say they are investigating.
Arlene Perez, a registered behavioral technician who has supported 12-year-old Isaiah for five years, said she has not received a paycheck in about a month. She continues working with him, but said she may eventually have to find other work to cover her bills.
Perez’s agency depends on Medicaid payments for Applied Behavior Analysis services. The agency says most of its claims have not been processed since the administrator transition. Perez joined other providers at a recent rally outside Molina’s Doral office seeking answers.
Medical attorney Henry Marines said he communicates with nearly 700 providers who have reported the same problem. He questioned why payments had not gone out, saying the program’s enrollment numbers should be known in advance.
The Florida Agency for Health Care Administration said it is investigating payment concerns tied to the Oct. 1 transition. Molina Healthcare had not responded to requests for comment.
The delay is also worrying families who depend on consistent therapy. Isaiah’s mother, Joyce Jackson, said she fears his provider could be forced to leave, making it difficult for her son to adjust to someone new.
Marines said it may be too early to pursue legal action over the claims. He plans to meet with Molina’s senior executives to seek a resolution.