Iowa Auditor Finds More Than $18,000 in Improper and Unsupported Payments at Lansing EMS, Urges Stronger Controls

Iowa’s Auditor of State finds more than 18-thousand dollars in improper and unsupported payments tied to the Lansing Emergency Medical Services. Auditor of State Rob Sand reported the special investigation identified $8,461.20 of improper disbursements and $9,778.67 of unsupported disbursements. However, because EMS records were not sufficiently maintained, it was not possible to determine if additional amounts were improperly disbursed. Sand recommended EMS officials implement procedures to ensure that internal controls are strengthened, including segregation of duties, performing independent review of bank statements, and ensuring all disbursements are properly supported, approved, and paid in a timely manner. In addition, EMS officials should ensure all actions taken during meetings are properly documented in the minutes of Board meetings.