Idaho Mental Health Clinic Challenging Medicaid Payment Suspension

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — An Eastern Idaho mental health clinic that was suspended from getting Medicaid payments in March has filed an appeal contesting the state Department of Health and Welfare's decision. Chubbuck-based Seasons of Hope clinic submitted its appeal late Wednesday night.

The state says the company revoked the company's provider status following an 18-month investigation that found it billed for services that weren't covered, misrepresented services and billed for services not documented. But details on the clinic's defense are still unclear.

Health and Welfare spokesman Tom Shanahan said the department can't yet release the more than 40-page appeal document because it includes patient names and information. He said details will be provided after the state redacts sensitive material. Heath Sommer, CEO at the clinic, could not be immediately reached for comment Thursday.