Kennedy's Sharp Criticism During Hearing
During a Tuesday hearing, Sen. John Kennedy of Louisiana took direct aim at California's Medicaid program, known as Medi-Cal, for its coverage of exorcisms and various faith-based healing methods. He pointed to reports showing that state funds are supporting these practices, which he argued have little connection to conventional medical care. Kennedy questioned how such services ended up under the umbrella of taxpayer-supported healthcare.
The senator highlighted that California accounts for a disproportionate share of new providers entering the system. With only 12 percent of the national population, the state has driven half of the recent additions, many of which offer non-traditional services. This imbalance, Kennedy suggested, raises serious questions about oversight and the allocation of federal resources.
Rapid Growth in Medi-Cal Spending
California's Medicaid expenditures have surged dramatically since 2019. Figures show spending climbing from roughly $100.7 billion to a projected $222 billion by 2026. This near doubling has drawn attention from federal officials, particularly as the Trump administration examines potential waste and improper payments within the program.
The expansion of covered services to include traditional tribal healers and natural helpers has added another layer to the debate. In 2024, Medi-Cal began reimbursing music therapy, ceremonies, rituals, and herbal remedies for eligible recipients in tribal communities. State officials described the move as an effort to address historical inequities faced by Native populations.
California's got 12% of the population in the last ten years. They're responsible for half of these new so-called health providers to provide exorcisms and other things. Now, what the hell are we doing about it? Why has this gone on for so long?
Federal Response to Suspected Fraud
Last week, the Trump administration suspended $1.4 billion in federal funding for California's home health and hospice programs. This action followed findings by Vice President J.D. Vance's anti-fraud task force, which identified an estimated $600 million in suspected improper claims. The move signals heightened federal scrutiny of how Medi-Cal manages its growing budget.
Questions remain about the exact costs tied to spiritual and faith-based services. The California Department of Health and Human Services has not provided detailed figures on spending for traditional healers or natural helpers. Requirements for these providers include at least two years of service as a spiritual leader within a tribe for healers, while natural helpers face fewer formal barriers.
Key Concerns Raised About Medi-Cal Practices
- Coverage of exorcisms and indigenous rituals through taxpayer-funded Medicaid
- Sharp increase in overall program spending without clear accountability measures
- Disproportionate role of California in adding new providers offering non-medical services
- Limited transparency on costs for tribal healing expansions
- Federal funding suspensions tied to identified fraud risks
