North Dakota Health and Human Services Reports Seven Findings in 2025 Biennial Audit
North Dakota Health and Human Services announced that the 2025 biennial audit released by the State Auditor’s Office shows strong overall performance across its programs, safeguards, and operations, according to an agency report on hhs.nd.gov. Operating within a biennial budget of nearly $6 billion, state auditors identified only seven findings, which department leadership points to as evidence of effective oversight and responsible program management.
The evaluation found no evidence of systemic failures or widespread improper payments. Instead, the identified issues reflect documentation gaps, varying provider practices, and opportunities to strengthen oversight across the state’s complex administrative network.
Accountability and Stewardship in State Programs
Commenting on the audit, HHS Commissioner Conner Swanson noted that the review validates the agency’s dedication to fiscal responsibility and responsible management of taxpayer funds. Our team works every day to ensure North Dakotans can rely on programs that are safe, effective, and well-managed,
Swanson stated according to the hhs.nd.gov report. We appreciate the work of the State Auditor’s Office, which highlights that the vast majority of our operations are sound and provides targeted opportunities to make already strong programs even better.
The department manages thousands of providers, intricate federal and state programs, and millions of interactions each year, making the limited number of findings notable within such a large scope. Many improvements linked to the findings are already complete or underway.
HHS Will Modernize Systems and Strengthen Provider Oversight
HHS will continue system modernization, policy updates, and stronger provider oversight to reinforce program integrity. The agency remains focused on ensuring that benefits reach people who qualify and that taxpayer dollars are used responsibly.
As it rolls out further enhancements across its daily functions, HHS plans to maintain close collaboration with the State Auditor’s Office, lawmakers, service providers, and families.
