Nebraska Confronts Misinformation Campaign Amidst ABA Service Rate Adjustments
The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has launched a new website, abafacts.ne.gov, to counter misinformation surrounding recent adjustments to Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) service payment rates. This move comes in response to a surge in misleading advertisements and false information targeting Medicaid recipients and providers. The website aims to provide accurate and transparent information about the DHHS’s efforts to sustain ABA services for Nebraska families while addressing the state’s fiscal responsibility.
The controversy stems from a dramatic increase in Nebraska’s Medicaid expenditures for ABA services, which soared from approximately $4.6 million in 2020 to an estimated $85.6 million in 2024 – a staggering increase of nearly 2,000%. This unsustainable growth, attributed in part to Nebraska’s previously exceptionally high payment rates, attracted out-of-state corporations seeking to capitalize on the favorable reimbursement structure. The DHHS emphasizes that no state or federal program could absorb such an exponential increase without jeopardizing long-term stability.
To address this unsustainable financial trajectory, the DHHS conducted a comprehensive rate analysis and subsequently adjusted payment rates for ABA services. These adjustments bring Nebraska’s rates more in line with those of neighboring states while remaining above the national average. Despite these adjustments, misinformation campaigns have attempted to portray the DHHS’s actions as drastic cuts to essential services.
The DHHS unequivocally refutes the claims made in these misleading advertisements, emphasizing that ABA services will continue to be fully covered by Nebraska Medicaid for eligible recipients. There will be no out-of-pocket costs for families. The department underscores its commitment to ensuring continued access to ABA services for children and families across the state.
DHHS CEO Steve Corsi expressed concern over the dissemination of false information, stating, “While it is troubling and concerning that some bad actors will resort to misleading the public, DHHS will respond with the facts.” The new website serves as a central hub for accurate information, directly addressing the misinformation circulating in the public domain.
Drew Gonshorowski, Director of the Medicaid and Long-Term Care Division, reiterated the DHHS’s dedication to collaborating with ABA providers to maintain robust access to services in Nebraska. He urged families and providers to seek information directly from the DHHS rather than relying on misleading advertisements. The website will be continuously updated to combat any new misinformation that may emerge.
The DHHS emphasizes the importance of accurate information in making informed decisions about healthcare services. They encourage Nebraskans to visit abafacts.ne.gov for the latest updates and factual information on ABA services.
(This extended format expands on the original content by providing additional context and emphasizing the key points of the DHHS’s message. It also includes direct quotes from DHHS officials to reinforce their commitment to transparency and access to ABA services.)