The government meeting held on December 2, 2024, by the Departamento de Estado Puerto Rico focused on critical issues surrounding the auditing capabilities of the agency, particularly in light of recent legislative changes and federal requirements.

The discussion began with a clarification regarding the removal of auditors from the agency, which was linked to the establishment of the Office of the Inspector General. A representative highlighted that the agency had lost all its auditors, which has severely impacted its ability to conduct internal audits. The representative sought to confirm the total number of auditors lost and emphasized the necessity of having internal auditors to comply with federal regulations and ensure fiscal responsibility.

The conversation revealed that the agency has been without auditors for seven years, a situation exacerbated by the aftermath of Hurricane Maria and the COVID-19 pandemic. The lack of auditing resources has left the agency unable to perform essential evaluations of how insurers manage clinical preauthorization processes, which is crucial for maintaining oversight of federal funds.

The representative stressed that without auditors, the agency is operating "in the dark," complicating compliance with the law and increasing the risk of errors. They called for a review of the existing legislation to facilitate the reinstatement of auditors, which is deemed essential for effective fiscal oversight and accountability.

In summary, the meeting underscored the urgent need for the agency to restore its auditing capabilities to meet federal requirements and enhance its oversight of federal funds, particularly in the current context of Puerto Rico's financial landscape. The discussions highlighted the long-standing challenges faced by the agency and the critical importance of addressing these issues to ensure proper governance and accountability.