Oklahoma – Governor Kevin Stitt has received the initial financial examination report for the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS). Prepared by CPA David Greenwell, the report offers a transparent review of the department’s financial operations, identifies a projected supplemental funding need of $29.9 million for fiscal year 2025, and outlines 52 targeted recommendations aimed at strengthening internal controls, financial accountability, and service delivery.
David Greenwell collaborated closely with ODMHSAS and the Oklahoma Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES) to assess financial practices, evaluate short-term funding needs, and develop recommendations for improved procedures going forward.
“This report is the signal for a new beginning for the department,” Governor Stitt said. He expressed gratitude to Greenwell for the swift completion of the report and to ODMHSAS Commissioner Carrie Friesen and her team for their cooperation throughout the process.
The report provides a clear roadmap that emphasizes ethical standards, modernization of accounting systems, and enhanced reimbursement protocols. The phased implementation of these reforms is planned over the next 18 months. Governor Stitt voiced confidence in the department’s ability to execute meaningful change while improving care for Oklahomans.
“No one signs up for a job like this thinking they’ll have to take on decades of financial mismanagement. Commissioner Friesen has navigated this challenge admirably and has kept me and my team informed every step of the way,” Stitt said. “Oklahomans will be better off now that we have a handle on this department.”
Key recommendations from the report include:
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Hiring a Chief Financial Officer and an internal auditor with significant public sector experience
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Adopting OMES-approved accounting systems to improve interoperability
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Utilizing advanced analytics to prevent fraud and enhance decision-making
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Expanding employee training to foster a culture of ethical conduct and accountability
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Increasing transparency through real-time dashboards and public reporting
The report marks a major step toward reforming ODMHSAS’s financial management and enhancing the quality and reliability of mental health and substance abuse services across the state.
Governor Kevin Stitt receives financial examination report for Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services
