DHS spending on outside contractors continues to grow

The Department of Health Services paid outside contractors $182.4 million in fiscal year 2012, far outpacing all other agencies. They spent 9 percent more than 2011 and 64 percent more than 2010. That's despite a 2011 audit of the state's Medical Assistance programs which found that the department's increasing reliance on vendors could hinder its ability to maintain adequate oversight. (WHN, 1/29)