Task Force Suspends 447 Hospices, 23 Home Health Agencies in LA Over $600M Fraud Suspicions

An anti-fraud task force led by Vice President JD Vance has suspended 447 hospices and 23 home health agencies in Los Angeles County, California. The actions stem from investigations into suspected fraudulent activities exceeding $600 million. Fox News reported these details as part of ongoing federal efforts to address healthcare fraud.

The number of suspensions marks a 539% increase from the 70 reported by Fox News Digital at the start of April 2026. A spokesperson for Vance stated that the task force is committed to identifying and addressing fraud. The official emphasized that the effort aims to ensure taxpayer dollars support eligible recipients.

“Where there is fraud, the task force will find it," a spokesperson for Vance told Fox News Digital. " A White House official confirmed the task force's ongoing reviews and pursuits of leads. The official noted that suspension numbers and recovered dollar values are expected to rise.”

The rising numbers add to the $259.5 million in Medicaid funds to Minnesota that Vance and CMS administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz announced plans to block in February. Tim Walz’s January decision not to seek a third term, made amid growing scrutiny of fraud in state programs.

Background on Federal Anti-Fraud Efforts The task force's work builds on broader federal initiatives to combat fraud in Medicare and Medicaid programs.

In February 2026, Vance and Oz addressed fraud prevention during an event at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building. These programs provide healthcare services to elderly and low-income individuals, making fraud a significant concern for federal budgets. Los Angeles County has faced prior scrutiny over alleged widespread hospice fraud.

Hospices offer end-of-life care, while home health agencies provide in-home medical services. Suspensions prevent these entities from billing federal programs until investigations conclude, potentially affecting patient access to care in the region.

Related State Legislation and Concerns In California, Democratic legislators advanced bill AB 2624, which passed an assembly committee in an 11-2 vote.

The bill aims to expand privacy protections for immigration support services providers under the Secretary of State's Safe at Home program. It allows eligible providers, employees, and volunteers who face threats due to their work with immigrants to keep addresses confidential. Independent journalist Nick Shirley criticized the bill on X, stating it could limit exposure of fraudulent activities.

Shirley, known for reporting on healthcare fraud in Minnesota, said the legislation targets investigative journalism. The bill was introduced by Democratic assemblywoman Mia Bonta. GOP critics have referred to AB 2624 as the "Nick Shirley Act" due to Shirley's reporting on suspected fraud in California.

The legislation's advancement coincides with the task force's increased suspensions in the state. No final passage or implementation details for the bill were reported as of April 15, 2026.

Broader Context and Next Steps The Minnesota case involved scrutiny of state programs.

Federal actions like the Los Angeles suspensions highlight efforts to target fraud in blue states, as noted in prior announcements. Affected entities may appeal suspensions, and investigations could lead to further legal actions or recoveries. Patients relying on these services in Los Angeles may need to seek alternative providers during the suspension period.

The task force's activities affect healthcare providers, federal budgets, and vulnerable populations. Ongoing monitoring by federal agencies will determine additional suspensions or resolutions.