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  4.  → September in review: Dozens charged for health care fraud

September in review: Dozens charged for health care fraud

The government has continued its crackdown on health care fraud, as exhibited by the dozens of arrests and criminal charges from the month of September. Examples include:

  • Genetic testing scam. The Department of Justice (DOJ) claims 35 individuals took part in a health care fraud scheme that used genetic testing services to bilk Medicare of over $2 billion in fraudulent payments.
  • Pill mills. The government also charged 48 in connection with an alleged pill million the Northeast. The operation is accused of unnecessarily distributing over 3.25 million opioid pills and claiming over $800 million in payment from Medicare. The accused include corporate executives and medical professionals.
  • Fraudulent billing practices. The DOJ also charged 67 for their role in a fraud ring in Florida and Georgia. The agency states the accused filed false claims with Medicare for over $160 million in medically unnecessary care. The DOJ also charged 53 individuals from the Midwest for fraudulently billing Medicare for almost $145 million in illegitimate claims. The agency also charged 34 additional individuals in California, Arizona and Oregon for similar crimes.

Although the claims are diverse, they all included allegations of illegal kickbacks and bribes. Those who find themselves under investigation by the government for similar allegations are wise to take the matter seriously. The DOJ plans to continue its focus on health care fraud crimes. As such, the government will pursue charges and, if successful, a conviction could come with hefty financial penalties and potential prison time.

Defenses are available. Contact an attorney experienced in health care fraud allegations and government investigations to discuss your options.