ANOKA, MN- State Representative Abigail Whelan, R-Anoka, issued the following statement regarding news that the Anoka-Metro Regional Treatment Facility may be in jeopardy of losing federal funds if it fails to correct threats to patient and worker safety.
“Since last May, I have visited the Anoka Regional Treatment Facility on two separate occasions. Both times the message from staff was clear—changes need to take place to ensure their safety," said Whelan. "I am committed, along with my colleagues on the Health and Human Services Committee and those in the Department of Human Services, to address the many systemic problems facing this facility and find a solution that will create better working conditions for all.”
Last month, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) notified the Department of Human Services that the Anoka Regional Treatment Center (AMRTC) may no longer be able to bill for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
As a result, CMS set a January 4, 2016 deadline for terminating AMRTC’s participation in and ability to bill Medicare and Medicaid for services provided. After discussions between the Department of Human Services and CMS, CMS extended the termination deadline to March 5, 2016 to allow the department to negotiate a Systems Improvement Agreement (SIA). Under the SIA, AMRTC will have the opportunity to come into compliance with federal standards with the help of external consultants.
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