Finding: Under this selected program, eligible individuals receive a sliding fee discount on amounts owed for health center services based on family size and income levels in comparison to the federal poverty guidelines. The Organization should maintain records providing evidence that the patients i...
Finding: Under this selected program, eligible individuals receive a sliding fee discount on amounts owed for health center services based on family size and income levels in comparison to the federal poverty guidelines. The Organization should maintain records providing evidence that the patients included under this program are eligible. During the compliance testing of 44 sample items, there was two instances where the Organization applied a sliding fee discount to a patient who had not submitted any documents regarding their income level or family size and we could not determine whether the patient should have been included as a sliding fee patient, and one instance where the patient had properly submitted their forms, but the Organization applied the incorrect sliding fee rate. Currently, there is no known monetary impact, improper expenditure of funds or questioned costs identified. However, if the Organization does not strengthen the internal controls in regard to the eligibility determination process, there is a possible effect on the ability of the Organization to obtain additional funding under this program if ineligible patients are being treated with grant funding. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management agrees with the recommendation to review policies, procedures and practices in place over the controls related to obtaining, retaining and reviewing proof of income support for patients. • Train relevant staff on the Sliding Fee eligibility process and supporting documentation requirements. Anticipated date of completion: December 31, 2025 Contact person responsible – Tammy Grinnan, Controller and Margaret Boemmel, CFO