DeSantis’ Program To Target Medicaid Fraud Deemed Role Model For States

In addition, the state has imposed enrollment moratoriums on certain high-risk provider categories as part of its broader effort to strengthen oversight and reduce fraud within the Medicaid system.

According to the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration, the state has terminated or denied Medicaid enrollment for more than 3,200 providers over the past two years and recovered more than $72 million in improper payments during the last year. State officials say those enforcement actions target fraudulent claims and do not affect reimbursement for legitimate medical services provided to eligible patients.

Supporters of the initiative argue that the rapid growth in Medicaid spending on autism services underscores the need for stronger oversight.

In a June National Review article, Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) noted that nationwide Medicaid spending on autism therapy increased by 403% between 2019 and 2024.

Kennedy also highlighted Minnesota, where Medicaid spending on autism services reportedly rose from approximately $670,000 to $342.8 million during that period.

Federal prosecutors have charged two clinic operators there with allegedly fraudulently billing $46.6 million for autism therapy services that investigators say were never provided.

Critics say investigators are likely to find more such fraudulent operations.