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Receive and accept the Internal Control Review of the In-Home Support Services (IHSS) Program
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Published Notice Required? Yes ____ No _X _
Public Hearing Required? Yes ____ No _X _
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
The Auditor Controller's Office (ACO) recommends the Board of Supervisors receive and accept the Internal Control Review of the In-Home Support Services (IHSS) Program.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
In accordance with the Internal Audit Division Fiscal Year 2016/17 Audit Plan, the ACO performed an internal control review of the In-Home Support Services (IHSS) Program. The review included evaluating the adequacy and effectiveness of IHSS internal controls, the procedures used to carry out assigned responsibilities, and compliance with applicable policies and standards.
IHSS is a statewide program administered at the County level by the Department of Health and Social Services under the direction of the California Department of Social Services (CDSS). IHSS is an entitlement program. This means interested individuals have the right to apply for IHSS services and are guaranteed services if they meet the financial and functional eligibility criteria. The program was created with the goal of providing those with limited income who are disabled, blind, or over the age of 65, with in-home care services to help them remain safely at home.
Based upon the ACO's review, there were areas identified within the IHSS program requiring improvements to be in compliance with program mandates and to better achieve program objectives. Specifically, the ACO determined:
(1) The Supervisor's review and approval of intake cases was not always documented;
(2) There is no process in place to randomly check provider's timesheets;
(3) The process for administering directed mailings did not meet State requirements;
(4) Required unannounced home visits were not performed in FY2015/16.
(5) Managing fraud referrals needs improvement. This includes ti...
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