The state of Kansas has some severe problems when it comes to its Medicaid system, the Salina Journal reports.
Here's what you should know.
1. The state is spending more than $2 million dollars as it attempts to process first-time Medicaid applications. The health department has stopped reviewing renewal applications, for the time being, as it attempts to catch up.
2. As of mid-August, 35,000 renewal applications were still un-processed.
The state is going to continue to provide services for those waiting to renew, while it processes the first-time applications.
3. State auditors found that the state is not complying with several federal laws that determine eligibility. Federal officials are not going to take any actions, however, once the backlog is cleared.
4. Under federal law, applicants must receive a decision within 45 days or 90 days if the application is based on disability. Approximately 1,700 applicants have waited more than 45 days.
5. Several government officials have defended the agency saying it's making good progress to reduce the claims.
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