Arek Sarkissian

1 month ago | yahoo.com | Arek Sarkissian

TALLAHASSEE, Florida — Florida’s top Medicaid regulator on Tuesday sought to explain a $10 million donation made to a nonprofit associated with first lady Casey DeSantis’ community-based assistance program was not made with Medicaid dollars recouped in a much larger cash settlement.

1 month ago | politico.com | Kimberly Leonard |Arek Sarkissian |Isa Dominguez

Arek Sarkissian came to POLITICO Florida in December 2017 to cover regulated industries in one of the fastest growing states in the country. Sarkissian served as the bureau chief for the Naples Daily News for more than two years. During his tenure, his investigative reporting on VISIT FLORIDA prompted the Legislature to pass tougher contract restrictions.

1 month ago | politico.com | Arek Sarkissian |Gary Fineout

Despite the timing, letters provided by the foundation that oversees Hope Florida show $5 million was given to the chamber’s Secure Florida’s Future initiative in response to a proposal that would promote the first lady’s program and help recruit business partners in the future.

1 month ago | politico.com | Arek Sarkissian

TALLAHASSEE, Florida — A Florida welfare assistance project spearheaded by first lady Casey DeSantis received a $10 million donation from the state’s largest Medicaid managed care operator — part of a $67 million out-of-court settlement involving the company’s pharmacy benefit manager. According to a copy of the settlement provided to POLITICO on Wednesday, Centene, which owns Sunshine Health in Florida, agreed to pay the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration $67 million.

2 months ago | yahoo.com | Arek Sarkissian

TALLAHASSEE, Florida — Hope Florida will face further scrutiny this week over its relationship with the state Agency for Health Care Administration, with state lawmakers probing newly enacted requirements for Medicaid operators that include sharing patient data, incentivized participation and the transfer of $10 million last year. The program, led by first lady Casey DeSantis, aims to connect eligible residents in need with resources in the community. Gov.