Provider Signals™LEIE vs. state Medicaid exclusion lists
The OIG's LEIE is the federal exclusion list — but most states also publish their own Medicaid exclusion lists, and a provider can appear on one and not the other. Here's how they differ and why a complete program screens both.
Two different lists, two different authorities
The LEIE is maintained by the federal OIG and governs participation in all federal health care programs. State Medicaid exclusion lists are maintained by individual state Medicaid agencies and govern participation in that state's Medicaid program. They overlap, but they are not the same database.
| Category | OIG LEIE | State Medicaid lists |
|---|---|---|
| Maintained by | Federal OIG (HHS) | Each state Medicaid agency |
| Scope | All federal health programs | That state's Medicaid program |
| Coverage | One national list | A patchwork — most states, varying formats |
| Update cadence | Monthly | Varies by state |
| Required to screen? | Yes | Yes — CMS directs Medicaid screening of state lists |
Why you can't rely on the LEIE alone
CMS has directed state Medicaid agencies and their providers to screen against both the federal LEIE and state exclusion data. A provider terminated "for cause" by one state's Medicaid program may not appear on the federal LEIE — yet billing for them in that state still creates liability. The reverse is also true: a federally excluded provider must be treated as excluded in every state.
The 50-state patchwork problem
Around 40+ states publish a Medicaid exclusion or sanctions list, but in different formats, locations, and update schedules — and a handful publish none, deferring to the LEIE. Assembling and re-checking all of them by hand is the single hardest part of a complete screening program.
Frequently asked questions
Is the LEIE the same as a state Medicaid exclusion list?
No. The LEIE is the federal OIG list; state Medicaid lists are maintained separately by each state. A provider can be on one and not the other, so a complete program screens both.
Do I have to screen state Medicaid exclusion lists?
Yes — CMS directs Medicaid providers and agencies to screen against both the federal LEIE and applicable state exclusion lists. Requirements vary by state.
How many states publish exclusion lists?
More than 40 states publish a Medicaid exclusion or sanctions list, in varying formats and update schedules. A few publish none and rely on the federal LEIE.
Data & methodology
Sources: OIG LEIE, CMS NPPES. This page is informational and does not constitute legal or compliance advice.
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