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$375,000. That’s how much Arizona Medicaid owes one women’s addiction treatment center in Tucson. And reports say the Medicaid funds are two years overdue which is putting essential recovery services at risk.
Medicaid Fraud Fallout
Why is Medicaid so delayed in reimbursing The Haven, an inpatient recovery center? The funding pause is part of a domino effect following a massive fraud scandal in 2023.
Authorities discovered that some treatment providers were submitting false claims for Medicaid funds to cover addiction treatment that were never provided. The fraudulent activity targeted vulnerable populations, primarily Native Americans.
Medicaid’s Impact on Arizona Women’s Addiction Treatment
The fraudulent claims, submitted to the Arizona Health Cost Containment System (AHCCS), cost Arizona tax payers an estimated $2.8 billion. In an effort to stop this Medicaid scheme, the state began requiring more documentation for claims and suspended payment to providers.
Caught in the crosshairs of this response, centers like The Haven—which has no connection to the fraud—are struggling to stay open.
Amy Graves, Haven CEO, is calling current AHCCS policies an “overcorrection.” She explained that 95% of the organizations operating budget comes from Arizona Medicaid reimbursements.
Founded in 1970, The Haven offers both inpatient and outpatient addiction treatment programs for women. This includes their unique Native Ways Program, a specialized program which helps Native American and Indigenous women recover through cultural healing traditions.
Funding Women’s Treatment Amid Medicaid Cuts
The Haven’s staff recently brought their case before the Arizona State Senate Committee on Health and Human Services. They are urging lawmakers to release overdue Medicaid funds. Administrators, clinicians, and patients shared how these payment delays threaten vital programs and disrupt recovery for women in need.
The Haven is just one of more than 300 addiction treatment providers currently suspended from receiving Medicaid payments in Arizona.
Low Cost Addiction Treatment Options
While these cuts are creating uncertainty, women in Arizona still have options for affordable care. In addition to Medicaid and Medicare, many centers offer sliding-scale fees, state and federal grants, and scholarship based rehab programs.
Low and no cost addiction treatment is available for those who qualify. This includes specialized women’s rehabs, outpatient programs, and holistic recovery options.
Find Free and Low Cost Rehabs Near You
If you or someone you love needs help, affordable addiction treatment is available. Explore free and low cost rehabs in Arizona on Rehabs.org or call
800-914-7089
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for confidential support today.
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