Attorney General | The Health Law Firm Blog

411-PAIN Settles with Florida Attorney General

By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that her office has reached a settlement with 411-PAIN. The settlement requires 411-PAIN to pay $550,000 and change its advertising practices for allegedly making misrepresentations to consumers. 411-PAIN is a Florida-based attorney and chiropractic referral service.

411-PAIN Allegedly Misrepresented Consumer Entitlements.

The Attorney General pursued action against 411-PAIN for the company’s alleged violation of Florida’s Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act, Chapter 501, Part II, Florida Statutes. To view Florida’s Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act, click here.

Allegedly, the company misrepresented that consumers could be entitled to $100,000 or more for injuries and lost wages as a result of accidents. The company also allegedly misrepresented that consumers could be entitled to more than $10,000 in personal injury protection compensation or benefits for injuries and lost wages. The alleged misrepresentations were made through the company’s advertising.

Additionally, 411-PAIN was accused of falsely stating that police officers require consumers to call 411-PAIN after calling emergency services following an auto accident. This was allegedly conveyed through the company’s advertisements which used actors dressed as police officers. The advertisements allegedly did not feature a disclosure that the individuals in the commercials were actors and not actual law enforcement officers.

Attorney Services Allegedly Misrepresented by 411-PAIN.

411-Pain also allegedly misrepresented attorney services to consumers. The company is accused of stating that consumers would be referred to a “qualified” attorney or “specialized” attorney who specializes in the type of injury or accident they sustained, when no such attorney specialization exists in Florida.

Settlement Restricts the Company’s Advertising.

The settlement reached by the state in Broward Circuit Court prohibits 411-PAIN from
• Promising any monetary compensation in its ads;
• Saying it’s referring victims to a “specialized attorney;”
• Using images of law enforcement officers to suggest that officials are directing consumers to use 411-Pain after calling 911, unless the officer is labeled as a “paid actor.”

To view the full settlement, click here.

Sources:

Cohen, Bryan. “Florida AG Settles with 411-PAIN.” Legal Newsline. (June 5, 2012). From:
http://www.legalnewsline.com/news/contentview.asp?c=236354

By The Health Law Firm|2024-03-14T10:00:31-04:00June 1, 2018|Categories: In the News, The Health Law Firm Blog|Tags: 411-PAIN, Attorney General, attorney referral, chiropractor, consumer advertising, false advertising, florida, fraud, health fraud, medical fraud, misrepresentation, settlement, specialization, specialized attorney|Comments Off

Settlement Reached in GlaxoSmithKline Healthcare Fraud Case

By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), a prescription drug manufacturer, will pay $3 billion in fines to resolve allegations of healthcare fraud. The settlement was announced by federal prosecutors on July 1, 2012, and in a press release from the Florida Attorney General on July 2, 2012. This is the largest healthcare fraud settlement in U.S. history.

Settlement Resolves Allegations Against GSK Related to Healthcare Fraud.

The settlement resolves allegations that GSK:

Marketed the depression drug Paxil for off-label uses, such as use by children and adolescents;
Marketed the depression drug Wellbutrin for off-label uses, such as for weight loss and treatment of sexual dysfunction, and at higher-than-approved dosages;
Marketed the asthma drug Advair for off-label uses, including first-line use for asthma;
Marketed the seizure medication Lamictal for off-label uses, including bipolar depression, neuropathic pain, and various other psychiatric conditions;
Marketed the nausea drug Zofran for off-label uses, including pregnancy-related nausea;
Made false representations regarding the safety and efficacy of Paxil, Wellbutrin, Advair, Lamictal, Zofran, and the diabetes drug Avandia;
Offered kickbacks to healthcare professionals to induce them to promote and prescribe certain prescription drugs; and
Submitted incorrect pricing data for various prescription drugs, thereby underpaying rebates owed to Medicaid and other federal healthcare programs.

GSK Will Also Plead Guilty to Criminal Charges as Part of Settlement.

As part of the settlement, GSK has will plead guilty to criminal charges that it violated the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FDCA). Allegedly, GSK introduced Wellbutrin and Paxil into interstate commerce when the drugs contained labels that were not in accordance with their FDA approvals. Additionally, GSK allegedly failed to report certain clinical data regarding Avandia to the FDA.

Florida to Receive Over $56 Million In Settlement.

Florida will receive more than $56 million as part of the settlement with GSK. Florida Attorney General, Pam Bondi, announced the state’s participation in the settlement on July 2, 2012.

Settlement Stems From Whistleblower Actions.

The settlement is based on four qui tam, or whistleblower, actions brought by individuals pursuant to state and federal false claims. To view the federal False Claims Act, click here. A National Association of Medicaid Fraud Control Units team, along with several other federal agencies, investigated the matter and conducted settlement negotiations with the defendants. Florida’s civil investigation was handled by the Attorney General’s Complex Civil Enforcement Bureau, which is part of the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced in Healthcare Fraud Cases.

The Health Law Firm represents physicians, medical practices, pharmacists, pharmacies, and other health providers in healthcare fraud cases, including investigations, regulatory matters, litigation, and audits involving government health programs (Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE).

To contact The Health Law Firm, please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Sources Include:

Meale, Jenn. “Attorney General Bondi’s Office Reaches Historic Healthcare Fraud Settlement.” Florida Office of the Attorney General. (July 2, 2012). Press Release. From: http://www.myfloridalegal.com/newsrel.nsf/newsreleases/E494FDADFF113AC885257A2F0068F790

Schmidt, Michael S. and Katie Thomas. “GlaxoSmithKline Agrees to Pay $3 Billion in Fraud Settlement.” New York Times. (July 2, 2012). From: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/07/03/business/glaxosmithkline-agrees-to-pay-3-billion-in-fraud-settlement.html?pagewanted=all

By The Health Law Firm|2024-03-14T10:00:32-04:00June 1, 2018|Categories: In the News, The Health Law Firm Blog|Tags: Attorney General, audit, false claims act, FDA, florida, Florida Medicaid, fraud defense attorneys, fraud schemes, GlaxoSmithKline, GSK, healthcare fraud, medicaid, medicaid fraud control unit, medicare, mfcu, qui tam, realtor, settlement, whistleblower|Comments Off

New Popular Drug Called “Smiles” Outlawed in Florida – Zombie Attacks Still a Threat!

By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

In previous blogs we’ve mentioned that Florida Governor Rick Scott signed House Bill 1175 on March 23, 2012. This bill outlawed more than 90 new forms of synthetic drugs and included bath salts, among others. It modifies Section 893.03(1)(c), Florida Statutes, by expanding the list of banned hallucinogenic substances in Schedule I of the Florida Comprehensive Abuse Prevention and Control Act. To see Florida HB 1175, click here. To see the entire list of banned substances, click here.

As you are no doubt aware, this was due, in part, to the recent outbreak of zombie attacks in the state of Florida. To see my prior blog on this, click here.

A new drug is popping up on the market with the name 2C-I or “smiles.” This drug is on the list of banned hallucinogenic substances, but has been linked to a number of deaths across the country.

Click here to learn more on the dangers of taking smiles.

Actor Thought to Have Taken Smiles Prior to Death.

According to CBS News, Johnny Lewis, an actor on the TV show “Sons of Anarchy,” is believed to have taken smiles before allegedly killing his landlady and falling to his death. Detectives believe the actor also had mental health issues.

To see the CBS News story, click here.

Florida’s Synthetic Drug Legislation Imposes Restrictions on Synthetic Substances.
The law that was passed in Florida put in place restrictions to prevent abuse of synthetic substances including certain synthetic cannabinoids and synthetic stimulants. Many of the synthetic substances are also commonly known as synthetic marijuana, smiles, bath salts, K2, potpourri, and incense.

The large quantities of synthetic substances are included in HB 1175 because the chemical compounds in these substances are easy to change. The ease of converting these substances into illegal drugs helps illegal drug makers, users and sellers to avoid arrest and prosecution. For example, one synthetic substance might be illegal under the Florida Comprehensive Abuse Prevention and Control Act, but a minor change in the molecular makeup might make the substance legal. Florida residents who desired to become zombies could just take one of these synthetic substances (don’t ask how). They no longer have to go to Haiti or watch “Weekend at Bernie’s” three times in a row.

Banning Synthetic Drugs Was An Attempt To Reduce Cannibalistic Attacks.

Who can forget the story of the Miami cannibal believed to have been on bath salts?

To refresh your memory, click here to see the story from CNN. Warning this does include actual video of the attack.

It was rumored that one prominent Florida lawmaker stated that banning bath salts, smiles and other synthetic drugs should help to reduce the reported acts of cannibalism and zombie-like behavior in Florida.

Manufacturers and Retailers, Watch Your Back.

The passing of HB 1175 could mean more issues for manufacturers and retailers of any products utilizing synthetic substances such as bath salts, herbal incense, or potpourri. If you manufacture or sell any product that is composed of synthetic substances you should regularly test your products to ensure that you are in full compliance with the new law.

On October 2, 2012, a Port Orange, Florida, store owner was charged with drug possession with intent to sell. Officials accused him of selling synthetic drugs, including marijuana and bath salts.

To see the Orlando Sentinel story on this arrest, click here.

Contact Experienced Health Law Attorneys.

The Health Law Firm routinely represents pharmacists, pharmacies, physicians, nurses and other health providers in investigations, regulatory matters, licensing issues, litigation, inspections and audits involving the DEA, Department of Health (DOH) and other law enforcement agencies. Its attorneys include those who are board certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law as well as licensed health professionals who are also attorneys.

To contact The Health Law Firm, please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Comments?

What do you think about the ban on synthetic drugs? Do you think it is working or not working? Please submit any thoughtful comments below.

Sources:

Jaslow, Ryan. “‘Smiles’ Druge Implicated in Actor’s Death: What Are They?” CBS News. (September 28, 2012). From: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-204_162-57522571/smiles-drug-implicated-in-actors-death-what-are-they/

Weiss, Piper. “2C-I or ‘Smiles’: The New Killer Drug Every Parent Should Know About.” Yahoo. (September 20, 2012). From: http://shine.yahoo.com/healthy-living/2c-smiles-killer-drug-every-parent-know-234200299.html

Hernandez, Arelis. “Store Owner Accused of Selling Synthetic Drugs, Bath Salts.” Orlando Sentinel. (October 2, 2012). From: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/breakingnews/os-bath-salts-arrest-20121002,0,7437907.story

CNN. “Security Video Shows Entire Miami ‘Zombie’ Attack.” CNN. (May 30, 2012). From: http://news.blogs.cnn.com/2012/05/30/security-video-shows-entire-miami-zombie-attack/

“The Health Law Firm” is a registered fictitious business name of George F. Indest III, P.A. – The Health Law Firm, a Florida professional service corporation, since 1999.

By The Health Law Firm|2024-03-14T10:00:37-04:00June 1, 2018|Categories: In the Know, In the News, The Health Law Firm Blog|Tags: Attorney General, attorneys, bath salts, cannibalism, cannibalistic, dea, defense attorney, defense lawyer, doctor, drug bans, drug enforcement administration, drugs, florida, florida health attorney, Florida health lawyer, k2, laws, legal, nurse, pharmacies, pharmacists, pharmacy, physician, potpourri, prevention, smiles, synthetic cannabinoids, synthetic drug bill, synthetic drug use, synthetic drugs, synthetic marijuana, zombie attacks, zombies, zombiism|Comments Off

Central Florida Has Been Invaded By Zombies – No Twinkies Means No Food Source

By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

You are already aware of Floridians’ fear of zombies, as shown by recent legislation against bath salts. Despite this, there continue to be reports of rampant zombie outbreaks across the Sunshine State. The zombie apocalypse has hit Central Florida, hard. As a citizen of Florida, you know you are not safe; not from zombies, not from British tourists, not from inability to count (notes in an election) and not from the state legislature. To make matters worse, Twinkies, the only food known to mankind that can survive a post-apocalyptic zombie outbreak (reference: Zombieland 2009) or a nuclear holocaust (reference: Family Guy, second season, third episode Dec. 26, 1999), may soon be out of production. Everyone knows Twinkies have a shelf life of 246 years.

Since Florida seems to be the only state infected with this flesh-eating disease, we are taking a poll. Should we be renamed “the Zombie State?”

A Run With the Living Dead in Clermont.

For those of your reading this blog from another state, you’re in luck. There is actual video footage of how bad the zombie outbreak has gotten in Florida. In Clermont, thousands of cardio-enthusiasts showed up to run a 5K course filled with numerous obstacles that forced participants to crawl in the sticky mud to avoid being pricked by barbed wire above and walking along an unstable beam of wood. Unfortunately, the runners were bombarded along the way by the living dead looking for a quick bite to eat. The participants had to protect their brains while running for their lives. Only the fastest survived.

To see video of attack, click here.

Zombies Take Over the University of Central Florida (UCF).

If you are in Florida and were hoping to take shelter on the campus of the University of Central Florida (UCF), you’re too late. From now until December 2, 2012, the campus will be crawling with zombies who have taken to the stage in a production called “Zombie Town: A Documentary Play.”

We’ve heard it’s not bad. Click here to read a review of the performance.

No Twinkies = No Hope.

By now you’ve heard Hostess, the maker of Twinkies, may be on its way to a complete shutdown. As you know, these delicious treats are the only food that can survive a zombie outbreak. If Hostess closes its doors, we are doomed for sure. Thank goodness Hostess and its striking union members are renegotiating. If Hostess does shut down, it’s rumored a Boca Raton, Florida, company will purchase the brand. We can only hope.

To read the latest on the Hostess debacle, click here.

Given the increasing number of zombie attacks in Florida, the price of Twinkies could soar into the hundreds of dollars each in Florida. Doomsday enthusiasts and disenchanted stock market investors are allegedly pouring funds into warehouse loads of Twinkies.

Is the Ban on Synthetic Drugs in Florida Working?

If you remember, Florida Governor Rick Scott signed House Bill 1175 on March 23, 2012. This bill outlawed more than 90 new forms of synthetic drugs. It modified Section 893.03(1)(c), Florida Statutes, by expanding the list of banned hallucinogenic substances in Schedule I of the Florida Comprehensive Abuse Prevention and Control Act. To view Florida HB 1175, click here. To read more on the ban, click here.

HB 1175 was in response to the first known zombie attack in Miami. This cannibalistic attack was allegedly because the one man was high on bath salts. It was rumored that one prominent Florida lawmaker stated that banning bath salts, smiles and other synthetic drugs should help to reduce the reported acts of cannibalism and zombie-like behavior in Florida.

And he was wrong, the walking dead are alive, sort of, and well in Florida.

Contact Experienced Health Law Attorneys.

To contact The Health Law Firm, please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Comments?

What do you think about all the zombies around town? What are you doing to survive? Are you stocking up on Twinkies now? Tell us, do you think we should rename Florida the Zombie state? Vote in a poll on our Facebook page.

Sources:

Armstrong, Cassie. “Zombies Invade Clermont in 5K Challenge.” Florida 360. (November 17, 2012). From: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/multimedia/os-fla360-zombies-invade-clermont-in-5k-challenge,0,110644.story

Palm, Matthew. “Theater review: ‘Zombie Town: A Documentary Play’ from Theatre UCF.” Orlando Sentinel. (November 18, 2012). From: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/community/ucf/os-zombie-town-review-ucf-20121116,0,4007008.story

Hsu, Tiffany. “Hostess, Union to Give Talks Another Chance.” Orlando Sentinel. (Novemeber 2012). From: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/la-fi-mo-twinkies-hostess-union-mediation-20121119,0,4220893.story

“The Health Law Firm” is a registered fictitious business name of George F. Indest III, P.A. – The Health Law Firm, a Florida professional service corporation, since 1999.

By The Health Law Firm|2024-03-14T10:00:40-04:00June 1, 2018|Categories: In the Know, The Health Law Firm Blog|Tags: Attorney General, attorneys, bath salts, cannibalism, cannibalistic, dea, defense attorney, defense lawyer, doctor, drug bans, drug enforcement administration, drugs, florida, florida health attorney, Florida health lawyer, k2, laws, legal, nurse, pharmacies, pharmacists, pharmacy, physician, potpourri, prevention, smiles, synthetic cannabinoids, synthetic drug bill, synthetic drug use, synthetic drugs, synthetic marijuana, zombie attacks, zombies, zombiism|Comments Off

22 New Synthetic Drugs Outlawed in Florida: Citizens Keep an Eye Out for Zombies

By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

On December 11, 2012, Attorney General (AG) Pam Bondi filed an emergency rule outlawing 22 new synthetic drugs, commonly known as “bath salts,” “K2,” and “Spice.” This emergency rule modifies Section 893.03(1)(c), Florida Statutes, by expanding the list of synthetic drugs in Schedule I of controlled substances of the Florida Comprehensive Abuse Prevention and Control Act.

Click here to view a copy of the emergency rule.

I previously wrote a blog on House Bill 1175 in July 2012, which originally outlawed 90 forms of synthetic drugs. Click here to read that blog.

Authorities Having a Hard Time Staying on Top of These Drugs.

The new law puts restrictions on those who manufacture, sell or deliver synthetic substances including certain synthetic cannabinoids and synthetic stimulants. Many of the synthetic substances are also commonly known as synthetic marijuana, bath salts, K2, potpourri, and incense. According to an article in the Orlando Sentinel many of these drugs look like snacks for children. One of these drugs is even marketed as a “Scooby Snack,” another looks like cotton candy. To read the entire article from the Orlando Sentinel, click here.

Florida’s officials are continuously updating the list of outlawed synthetic substances because the chemical compounds in these substances are easy to change. The ease of converting these substances into illegal drugs helps drug makers, users and sellers avoid arrest and prosecution.

Click here to see the entire list of outlawed controlled substances.

Anyone with These Drugs Asked to Voluntarily Surrender Supply.

The emergency rule by the AG makes it a third-degree felony for an individual to sell, manufacture or deliver these synthetic drugs.

These drugs are widely available in smoke shops, truck stops, convenience stores and on the internet. In a press release the AG and local law enforcement reached out to people handling these drugs, asking them to voluntarily surrender the substances or face action from law enforcement.

To read the entire press release from the AG, click here.

AG Wants a Zombie-Free Holiday.

This emergency rule is evidence of Floridians’ fear of zombies and cannibal attacks allegedly linked to the misuse of the outlawed substances. Florida has been linked to both in the national news, thus scaring away many of our tourists who usually flood the state. For an update on the zombie apocalypse in Florida, click here. Of course, there are those detractor who contend that face-chewing and other alleged zombie behavior is just natural behavior for Floridians, regardless of the chemicals imbibed.

Since Florida seems to be the only state infected with these flesh-eaters, we are taking a poll. Should Florida be renamed “the Zombie State?” Let us hear from you.

Contact Experienced Health Law Attorneys.

To contact The Health Law Firm, please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Comments?

What do you think of this new list of outlawed synthetic drugs? Do you think sellers will voluntarily surrender their products? Will this new list keep the zombies away? Tell us, do you think we should rename Florida the Zombie state? Click here to vote in a poll on our Facebook page.

Sources:

Meale, Jenn. “Attorney General Pam Bondi Outlaws Additional Synthetic Drugs.” Office of the Attorney General. (December 11, 2012). From: http://www.myfloridalegal.com/newsrel.nsf/newsreleases/C2FED4E8849E737685257AD1006EED54

Haughney, K. “Bondi Files Emergency Rule to Outlaw Additional Synthetic Drugs.” Orlando Sentinel. (December 11, 2012). From: http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/news_politics/2012/12/bondi-files-emergency-rule-to-outlaw-additional-synthetic-drugs.html

About the Author: George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law. He is the President and Managing Partner of The Health Law Firm, which has a national practice. Its main office is in the Orlando, Florida, area. www.TheHealthLawFirm.com The Health Law Firm, 1101 Douglas Ave., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714, Phone: (407) 331-6620.
“The Health Law Firm” is a registered fictitious business name of George F. Indest III, P.A. – The Health Law Firm, a Florida professional service corporation, since 1999.

By The Health Law Firm|2024-03-14T10:00:42-04:00June 1, 2018|Categories: Synthetic drugs, The Health Law Firm Blog|Tags: Attorney General, attorneys, bath salts, cannibalism, cannibalistic, dea, defense attorney, defense lawyer, doctor, drug bans, drug enforcement administration, drugs, florida, florida health attorney, Florida health lawyer, k2, laws, legal, nurse, pharmacies, pharmacists, pharmacy, physician, potpourri, prevention, smiles, synthetic cannabinoids, synthetic drug bill, synthetic drug use, synthetic drugs, synthetic marijuana, zombie attacks, zombies, zombiism|Comments Off

Purpose of Florida E-FORCSE Prescription Database Not for Disciplinary or Criminal Prosecution Purposes Against Physicians, Pharmacists or Other Health Professionals

By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

As you are no doubt aware now, Florida has an active prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP). It is called the “Electronic-Florida Online Reporting of Controlled Substances Evaluation” or “E-FORCSE.” More often it is referred to simply as the “prescription drug database” by Florida physicians.

The Florida Legislature adopted the E-FORCSE system in Florida by Section 893.055, Florida Statutes.

Section 893.055(7)(b), Florida Statutes, States Access to Program’s Database is Limited to Program Manager.

A pharmacy, prescriber, or dispenser shall have access to information in the prescription drug monitoring program’s database which relates to a patient of that pharmacy, prescriber, or dispenser in a manner established by the department as needed for the purpose of reviewing the patient’s controlled substance prescription history. Other access to the program’s database shall be limited to the program’s manager and to the designated program and support staff, who may act only at the direction of the program manager or, in the absence of the program manager, as authorized. Access by the program manager or such designated staff is for prescription drug program management only or for management of the program’s database and its system in support of the requirements of this section and in furtherance of the prescription drug monitoring program. Confidential and exempt information in the database shall be released only as provided in paragraph (c) and s. 893.0551. . . .

Data from E-FORCSE Not Intended to be Used to Bring Disciplinary Action Against Health Care Practitioners.

Most notably, it was not the intent of the Legislature for any state or federal agency to use the data from the E-FORCSE system primarily as evidence for the purpose of taking licensure or disciplinary action against physicians, dentists, pharmacists or other licensed health professionals.

Unfortunately, we have seen cases where, contrary to the Legislature’s intent, data from E-FORCSE has been recited in a case against a licensed health professional as an example of “substandard performance,” “falling below the standard of care,” or professional “negligence.” Additionally, we have been informed of the alleged use of the E-FORCSE system by state and federal law enforcement authorities in criminal investigations and prosecutions of licensed health professionals. However, the exact wording of Sections 893.055 and 893.0551, Florida Statutes, should be carefully analyzed in determining under what conditions access and use of the information are authorized.

Defending Against E-FORCSE Data’s Being Used Against a Health Care Practitioner.

If you are a physician, dentist or pharmacist, and data from E-FORCSE is used in or discussed in any complaint investigation, license investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigation, criminal investigation, administrative complaint, charge sheet or indictment, you should ask your attorney to research the advisability of filing a motion to strike it. In addition, your attorney should also consider filing a motion in limine, before any major hearing or trial, to exclude all use or mention of the data and E-FORCSE system.

In addition, the attorney for the licensed health professional may explore the possibility of moving to exclude any and all information and evidence derived from the unauthorized use of the E-FORCSE databank under the “fruit of the poisonous tree” doctrine. To date, we have not seen any cases where this has been done.

Again the exact language of Sections 893.055 and 893.0551, Florida Statutes, should be consulted to determine whether access and use have been properly authorized.

Information on Florida’s Prescription Drug Monitoring Program from the Florida Department of Health.

The information below is taken from an informational pamphlet distributed by the Florida Department of Health (DOH) called “E-FORCSE; Florida’s Prescription Drug Monitoring Program.” It is available online, at www.e-forcse.com.

Florida’s Prescription Drug Monitoring Program Facts.

E-FORCSE will take in controlled substance dispensing data from pharmacies and health care practitioners, and will make the information available to all health care practitioners who can then use the database to guide their decisions when prescribing and dispensing certain highly-abused prescription drugs. With this information, health care practitioners may be able to identify patients who are “doctor shopping”—obtaining multiple prescriptions for the same controlled substance from multiple health care practitioners. Doctor shopping is a felony in Florida.

Who is Required to Report Controlled Substance Dispensing Information to E-FORCSE?

Any health care practitioner who has dispensed a controlled substance in schedule II, III and IV, as defined in section 893.03, Florida Statutes-like OxyContin, Percocet, Vicodine, etc., will be required to report to the database. This includes pharmacies licensed under chapter 465, Florida Statutes, (including mail order and Internet pharmacies that dispense controlled substances into Florida) and health care practitioners licensed under chapters 458, 459, 461, 462, 465, or 466, Florida Statutes.

Who is Not Required to Report Controlled Substance Dispensing Information to E-FORCSE?

A health care practitioner who:

– Administers a controlled substance directly to a patient if the amount is adequate to treat the patient during that particular treatment session;
– Administers a controlled substance to a patient or resident receiving care as a patient, at a hospital, nursing home, ambulatory surgical center, hospice or intermediate care facility for the developmentally disabled;
– Administers or dispenses a controlled substance in the health care system of the Florida Department of Corrections;
– Administers a controlled substance in the emergency room of a licensed hospital;
– Administers or dispenses a controlled substance to a patient under the age of 16; and
– Dispenses a one-time, 72-hour re-supply of a controlled substance.

How Can E-FORCSE Help Improve a Patient’s Standard of Care?

– It allows the health care practitioners to choose and prescribe controlled substances that will not negatively interact with medicines prescribed by other health care practitioners.
– Pharmacists can determine for their patients if their health care practitioners have prescribed controlled substances that might negatively interact when used together.
– Health care practitioners can determine if their patient has had multiple prescriptions for the same drugs from multiple health care practitioners. This identifies those patients potentially engaged in the crime of doctor shopping. When health care practitioners intervene, they can help their patients find treatment.

How Can E-FORCSE Help Improve the Public Health of Florida?

Health care practitioners can identify a potentially illegal diversion pattern for drugs when they request and receive a Patient Activity Report (PAR). A PAR can alert health care practitioners to doctor shopping. In addition, this information can assist law enforcement, medical regulatory boards and the Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) with active investigations into criminal activity regarding controlled prescription drugs.

Who Has Access to the Information Stored in E-FORCSE?

A health care practitioner who is subject to licensure or regulation by the DOH under chapter 458, chapter 459, chapter 461, chapter 462, chapter 464, chapter 465, or chapter 466, Florida Statutes, will have direct access to their specific patient’s information. Other direct access to information will be limited to the E-FORCSE program manager and designated staff for the purpose of program management.

Indirect access may be requested by the following organizations upon being verified and authenticated by E-FORCSE staff.

– DOH or appropriate health care regulatory boards who are involved in a specific investigation involving a designated individual for one or more prescribed controlled substances;
– The Attorney General (AG) for Medicaid fraud cases involving prescribed controlled substances; and
– A law enforcement agency during active investigations regarding potential criminal activity, fraud or theft of prescribed controlled substances.

Are Health Care Practitioners Required to Access E-FORCSE Before Prescribing a Controlled Substance?

Health care practitioners will not be required to access E-FORCSE before prescribing a controlled substance. It will be voluntary; however, physicians are encouraged to use it as a tool to improve patient care.

Is E-FORCSE Compliant with the Federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)?

Yes, in addition to meeting the federal HIPAA requirements, E-FORCSE will meet all required DOH security requirements.

What is the Penalty for Disclosure of Confidential Information in the E-FORCSE Database?

A health care practitioner or other individual who has access to the information in the E-FORCSE database who discloses confidential information will be committing a third-degree felony.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced with Investigations of Health Professionals and Providers.

The attorneys of The Health Law Firm provide legal representation to physicians, nurses, nurse practitioners, CRNAs, pain management doctors, dentists, pharmacists, psychologists and other health providers in Department of Health (DOH) investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigations, FBI investigations, Medicare investigations, Medicaid investigations and other types of investigations of health professionals and providers.

To contact The Health Law Firm, please call (407) 331-6620 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Comments?

As a health care practitioner, do you use E-FORCSE? Why or why not? Please leave any thoughtful comments below.

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“The Health Law Firm” is a registered fictitious business name of George F. Indest III, P.A. – The Health Law Firm, a Florida professional service corporation, since 1999.
Copyright © 1996-2015 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.

By The Health Law Firm|2024-03-14T10:01:19-04:00May 15, 2018|Categories: Pharmacy Law Blog|Tags: administrative complain, AG, Attorney General, cases against licensed health care professionals, charge sheet or indictment, compliant investigation, controlled substance, criminal investigation, criminal investigation of a physician, dea, DEA investigation, defense attorney, defense lawyer, dentist, dispensing controlled substances, doctor, doctor shopping, doh, drug enforcement administration, E-FORCSE, E-FORCSE data, E-FORCSE HIPAA compliant, Electronic-Florida Online Reporting Controlled Substance Evaluation, falling below the standard of care, Florida defense attorney, Florida defense lawyer, florida department of health, Florida legislature, Florida prescription drug monitoring program, health care practitioner, health care professional, health care provider, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, health law firm, hipaa, license investigation, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU), PDMP, pharmacist, physician, prescriber, prescription database, prescription drug monitoring program, professional negligence, prosecution of health care professional, prosecution of physician, reporting to E-FORCSE, substandard performance, the health law firm, who can access E-FORCSE|Comments Off

New Hampshire Dentist Indicted on 189 Counts of Medicaid Fraud

By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

On December 20, 2013, a New Hampshire dentist was indicted on 189 counts of Medicaid fraud, according to a number of news sources. The dentist is alleged to have made false claims to the New Hampshire Medicaid office for procedures such as oral exams, X-rays, tooth extractions and orthopedic treatments performed between 2008 and 2013. According to the Concord Monitor, the dentist faces a maximum sentence of 1,323 years in prison. However, it is unlikely the dentist will receive such a long sentence. It is even more unlikely that he will serve the entire sentence, even if he does receive the maximum.

To read an article from the Concord Monitor, click here.

Medicaid Fraud Control Unit of the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office Brought Charges.

According to an article in the Union Leader, the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) of the state Attorney General’s (AG) Office handed down the charges against the dentist. Most of the indictment alleges that the claims made by the dentist were unjustified based on treatment records. The dentist is also accused of billing the Medicaid program for individual services he was already being reimbursed for under a lump-sum treatment plan.

The dentist was also allegedly indicted on nearly 30 counts of falsifying evidence. According to the Union Leader, once the dentist found out he was being investigated, the dentist allegedly attempted to alter his medical records.

According to his attorney the dentist plans to plead not guilty at his arraignment on January 15, 2014.

Click here to read the entire Union Leader article.

Poor Documentation or Fraud?

When we look at cases of this nature, we always ask was this just a case of poor documentation or was it intentional fraud? Was this a case of an incompetent biller or was it intentional submission of false claims? In many cases, poor administration or poor documentation can explain what may look like fraud to a regulator or prosecutor.

Tips for Responding to a MFCU Investigative Subpoena.

The MFCU is in charge of investigating and prosecuting health care providers suspected of defrauding the state’s Medicaid program. When the unit opens a case against a provider, the first step is usually the issuance of an investigative subpoena, requesting specific records. It is important to remember that the MFCU would not be involved unless criminal fraud was suspected. This is not a routine audit. Click here to read practice tips on how to properly respond to a subpoena.

Fraud Charges Should be Taken Seriously.

We have been consulted by many individuals similar to the subject of this story, both before and after criminal convictions for fraud or related offenses. In many instances, we are convinced that the person is actually not guilty of fraud. However, in many cases those subject to Medicaid or Medicare fraud audits and investigations refuse to acknowledge the seriousness of the matter or they decide not to spend the money required for a top quality attorney to defend them.

If you are accused of Medicare or Medicaid fraud, realize that you are in the fight of your life. Your liberty, life and profession are at stake. You need to hire the absolute best criminal defense attorney available who has experience in defending such cases to represent you.

If you win and are acquitted, at least you still have a professional license and can start over. However, if you lose, you will most probably be in prison for years. You will lose your license. You will be excluded from Medicare. You will be a convicted felon. You will have nothing and will have no way of starting over successfully.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced in Representing Dentists.

The attorneys of The Health Law Firm provide legal representation to dentists in Department of Health (DOH) investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigations, FBI investigations, Board of Dentistry and other types of investigations of health professionals and providers.

Our firm also routinely represents physicians, dentists, orthodontists, medical groups, clinics, pharmacies, home health care agencies, nursing homes and other health care providers in Medicare and Medicaid investigations, audits and recovery actions.

To contact The Health Law Firm, please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at http://www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Comments?

Have you heard of the MFCU? How would you respond to a subpoena from the MFCU? Please leave any thoughtful comments below.

Sources:

Blackman, Jeremy. “Manchester Dentist Faces 1,300 Years in Medicaid Fraud Scheme.” Concord Monitor. (December 30, 2013). From: http://www.concordmonitor.com/home/10005460-95/manchester-dentist-faces-1300-years-in-medicaid-fraud-case

Siefer, Ted. “Manchester Dentist Indicted on 189 Counts of Medicaid Fraud.” Union Leader. (January 1, 2014). From: http://www.unionleader.com/article/20140101/NEWS03/140109940

“The Health Law Firm” is a registered fictitious business name of George F. Indest III, P.A. – The Health Law Firm, a Florida professional service corporation, since 1999.

By The Health Law Firm|2024-03-14T10:01:44-04:00May 15, 2018|Categories: Dentist Defense attorney, Dentists|Tags: AG, alter medical records, Attorney General, defense attorney, defense lawyer, defraud Medicaid, dental license, dental office, dental practice, dentist, dentist attorney, dentist lawyer, Department of Justice, DOJ, false claims, health care fraud, health law firm, medicaid, Medicaid billing practices, Medicaid fraud, Medicaid fraud attorney, medicaid fraud control unit, Medicaid fraud indictment, medicaid fraud lawyer, Medicaid reimbursements, mfcu, mfcu subpoena, the health law firm|Comments Off

Florida Woman Uses Forged License to Practice Nursing

By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

A Florida woman allegedly used a fake state nursing license to pose as a nurse and then treat patients at their homes, according to the Lake County, Florida, Sheriff’s Office. The woman is accused of treating patients at least seven times, but the sheriff’s office stated there may be more victims. The fake nurse was arrested on September 27, 2013. She faces charges of working as a nurse without a license and using a forged state document.

To read the Orlando Sentinel article, click here.

This is not the woman’s first time in trouble with law enforcement. Earlier this year she was allegedly arrested for running an unlicensed assisted living facility (ALF), according to WFTV, the ABC affiliate in Orlando, Florida.

Used Another Nurse’s License Number to Dupe Employer.

According to the Orlando Sentinel, the fake nurse was hired at TLC Home Care Facilities in Leesburg, Florida, in May 2013, after presenting the forged nurse license to her employer. Part of the phony nurse’s job was to treat patients at their home, including administering blood pressure checks and dispensing medications.

An audit of TLC Home Care facilities by the Department of Health (DOH) uncovered that the phony nurse was allegedly using the same nursing license number as a woman with a similar name. The legitimate nurse actually works at St. Petersburg General Hospital.

Fake Nurse Previously Arrested for Similar Charges.

In December 2012, the same woman was arrested for scheming to defraud and criminal use of personal information, according to WFTV.

Then in March 2013, the Florida Attorney General’s (AG) Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) arrested her again for running an unlicensed ALF. According to WFTV, the woman billed residents for more than $55,000 worth of services in spite of the fact she was operating a facility without a state-required license.

Click here to watch WFTV’s report.

More Stories on Fake Physicians and Other Fraudulent Professionals to Come.

In the near future on this blog we will include additional articles on fake doctors and health professionals.

To see a recent blog a fake Florida pharmacist sentenced to prison, click here. To read a blog on a phony dentist in Miami, click here. You can also read the blog on a fake plastic surgeon in New York by clicking here.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced in Representing Nurses.

The Health Law Firm’s attorneys routinely represent nurses in Department of Health (DOH) investigations, in appearances before the Board of Nursing in licensing matters and in many other legal matters. We represent nurses across the U.S., and throughout Florida.

To contact The Health Law Firm please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Comments?

Do you think it is too easy to forge a health care professional’s license? Should the home health facility be punished for not doing a thorough background check? Please leave any thoughtful comments below.

Sources:

Comas, Martin. “Woman Used Forged Documents to Work as a Nurse, Deputies Say.” Orlando Sentinel. (September 27, 2013). From: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/breakingnews/os-woman-assumed-nurse-identity-20130927,0,395526.story

Hughes, Ryan. “Deputies: Woman Pretending to be Nurse has been in Trouble Before.” WFTV. (September 27, 2013). From: http://www.wftv.com/videos/news/deputies-woman-pretending-to-be-nurse-has-been-in/vCDXSX/
About the Author: George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law. He is the President and Managing Partner of The Health Law Firm, which has a national practice. Its main office is in the Orlando, Florida, area. www.TheHealthLawFirm.com The Health Law Firm, 1101 Douglas Ave., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714, Phone: (407) 331-6620.

By The Health Law Firm|2024-03-14T10:01:58-04:00May 15, 2018|Categories: Nurse License, Patient Care|Tags: AG, Attorney General, defense attorney, defense lawyer, department of health, doh, fake nurse, forged nurse license, licensed practical nurse, LPN, medicaid fraud control unit, mfcu, nurse, nurse attorney, nurse identity, Nurse lawyer, nurse license, phony nurse, the health law firm|Comments Off