CMS expands fraud crackdown to New York adult day-care program, calls it a "plague to the state"

CMS announced it will use its new authority to remove providers from federal health programs, focusing on adult day-care centers in New York City.

The agency says the Social Adult Day Care (SADC) program, meant to provide social activities, personal care and meals to seniors with physical or cognitive impairments, is riddled with fraud, waste and abuse.

CMS administrator Mehmet Oz described the program as a "plague to the state" and framed the action as part of a broader effort to protect Medicare and Medicaid funds.

Officials held a press conference outlining additional steps against fraudulent providers, indicating a heightened scrutiny of similar services.