Columbus – No response and no documentation left auditors unable to express an opinion regarding former Medicaid provider Sharon Rivera’s compliance with Medicaid regulations, according to an audit released today by Auditor of State Dave Yost.

“If you don’t respond, you can’t keep the money,” Auditor Yost said. “That’s one way to weed out irresponsible Medicaid providers.”

On May 6, 2013, an engagement letter was sent to Rivera, notifying her of the audit. A second request was sent on May 22, 2013 for documentation to support services rendered. Rivera did not respond to any notification and failed to submit any documentation.

Without supporting documentation, auditors identified 100 percent of all paid services during the period of January 1, 2009 through June 30, 2011 as an overpayment.

Auditors identified that Rivera was overpaid by $157,859.17. With interest in the amount of $23,977.29, the total amount owed to Ohio Medicaid is $181,836.46. 

A full copy of this audit may be accessed online. 

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The Auditor of State’s office, one of five independently elected statewide offices in Ohio, is responsible for auditing more than 5,800 state and local government agencies. Under the direction of Auditor Dave Yost, the office also provides financial services to local governments, investigates and prevents fraud in public agencies and promotes transparency in government.

Contact:
Carrie Bartunek
Press Secretary
614-644-1111