The Cabinet for Health and Family Services is committed to high standards of financial management across the cabinet. Despite this commitment, it is inevitable in an institution of our size and complexity that events will occur which could compromise our standards of fiduciary responsibility. Subsequent damage to the reputation of the cabinet, to the commonwealth and, of course, the individuals who may be implicated is also possible. It is essential, therefore, that the cabinet have an effective protocol for responding to allegations of financial impropriety and other frauds. The response mechanism must be clear, appropriate, timely and effectively focused if it is to protect both the cabinet and its employees.
Procedures for Individual Employees
Any employee who is aware of or suspects an incident of financial impropriety or fraud of any nature is to notify immediately:
- His/her immediate supervisor, and
- The Office of Inspector General or
- The OIG Hotline/e-mail (Report Fraud)
If, for some reason, the employee does not feel comfortable communicating concerns as prescribed above, the employee should notify the person one level above his/her immediate supervisor and this person would then be responsible for initiating a report to the inspector general. If this route is also uncomfortable for any reason, the employee should seek the advice of the inspector general.
Procedures for Management
It is the responsibility of any supervisor to ensure that the Office of Inspector General has been informed of any allegation or suspicion of fraud, any serious violation of policies or regulations, and/or loss of assets.
Investigations
The inspector general will undertake all investigations with due concern for the rights of individuals and be guided by the principles of confidentiality, appropriate speed and fairness.
Note: Please be assured that the inspector general and secretary fully support and will protect any employee coming forth with information of fraud, waste and abuse within this cabinet or the commonwealth. Employee's also have the protection of Kentucky Statutes (KRS 61.102) against reprisals.