California Did Not Fully Comply With Federal and State Requirements for Reporting and Monitoring Critical Incidents Involving Medicaid Beneficiaries with Developmental Disabilities

We have performed audits in multiple States in response to a congressional request concerning deaths and abuse of residents with developmental disabilities in group homes. Federal waivers permit States to furnish an array of home and community-based services to Medicaid beneficiaries with developmental disabilities so that they may live in community settings and avoid institutionalization. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requires States to implement a critical incident reporting system to protect the health and welfare of Medicaid beneficiaries receiving waiver services.