Connecticut Official Linked to Controversial Medicaid Audit Cancellation
A high-ranking member of Governor Ned Lamont’s administration, Deidre Gifford, was involved in the controversial decision to cancel a 2020 audit of Dr. Helen Zervas, a politically connected eye doctor accused of billing Connecticut’s Medicaid program for unperformed procedures. Internal emails and text messages obtained by The Connecticut Mirror reveal Gifford’s role in discussions about the audit prior to its abandonment, which followed Zervas’ agreement to reimburse the state $599,000.
Gifford, who was the former commissioner of the Department of Social Services and currently leads the Office of Health Strategy, reportedly approved the settlement despite her agency’s concerns about the unusual circumstances surrounding the audit. Although Gifford is not facing criminal charges, the documents suggest she may serve as a key witness in an ongoing federal investigation into alleged extortion and bribery involving Zervas, former deputy budget director Konstantinos Diamantis, and ex-state lawmaker Christopher Ziogas.
Zervas pleaded guilty in March to fraudulently overbilling Medicaid and is linked to claims that she paid Diamantis $95,000 to pressure state officials into halting the audit. Emails between Gifford and other key officials indicate that political connections may have influenced the decision to drop the audit, raising ethical concerns.
Governor Lamont’s office defended Gifford, emphasizing her commitment to ethical conduct and transparency, while also confirming her upcoming retirement. Gifford’s involvement in the case could have significant implications as federal prosecutors continue investigating the intricate ties between political influence and state healthcare audits.
The situation unfolds amid scrutiny of state governance and ethical conduct in public service, highlighting the intersection of healthcare, politics, and accountability in Connecticut.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
