New York-Based MRI Company to Pay $3.57 Million Settlement to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations in Whistleblower/Qui Tam Case

6 Indest-2008-3By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

On August 27, 2013, the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced a settlement between the government and New York-based Imagimed LLC, its former owners and its former chief radiologist. This $3.57 million settlement resolves whistleblower/qui tam allegations of false reimbursement claims for radiology scans. The payment also settles accusations that the company violated the Stark Law and the Anti-Kickback Statute.

Click here to read the press release from the DOJ.

Imagimed owns and operates 15 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) facilities under the name Open MRI.

MRI Company Accused of Not Following Proper Safety Precautions and Committing Health Care Fraud.

According to the DOJ, from July 2001 through April 2008, Imagimed, the company’s former owners and the former chief radiologist submitted claims to Medicare, Medicaid and TRICARE for MRI scans performed with a contrast dye without the direct supervision of a qualified doctor, as required by federal regulations.

The DOJ also alleges that from July 2005 to April 2008, Imagimed also had sham on-call arrangements with, and gave improper gifts to referring physicians, which is in violation of the Stark Law and the Anti-Kickback Statute.

Local Radiologist Blew Whistle and Receives a Cut of the Settlement.

According to the Associated Press, a local radiologist filed the lawsuit against Imagimed under the False Claims Act. The radiologist will receive $565,500 for coming forward. To read the Associated Press article, click here.

Whistleblowers stand to gain substantial amounts, sometimes as much as thirty percent (30%), of the amount the government recovers under the False Claims Act (31 U.S.C. Section 3730). Such awards encourage employees and contractors to come forward and report fraud. To learn more on whistleblower cases, read our two-part blog. Click here for part one, and click here for part two.

Most Qui Tams Filed by Doctors, Nurses and Employees.

From our review of qui tam cases that have been unsealed by the government, it appears most of these are filed by physicians, nurses or hospital staff employees who have some knowledge of false billing or inappropriate coding taking place. Normally the government will want to see some actual documentation of the claims submitted by the hospital or other institution. Usually physicians, nurses or staff employees have access to such documentation. Whistleblowers are urged to come forward as soon as possible. In many circumstances, documentation that shows the fraud “disappears” or cannot be located once it is known that a company is under investigation.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced with Qui Tam or Whistleblower Cases.

Attorneys with The Health Law Firm also represent health care professionals and health facilities in qui tam or whistleblower cases both in defending such claims and in bringing such claims. We have developed relationships with recognized experts in health care accounting, health care financing, utilization review, medical review, filling, coding, and other services that assist us in such matters. We have represented doctors, nurses and others as relators in bringing qui tam or whistleblower cases, as well.

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

Comments?

Individuals working in the health care industry often become aware of questionable activities. Often they are even asked to participate in it. In many cases the activity may amount to fraud on the government. Has this ever happened to you? Please leave any thoughtful comments below.

Sources:

Department of Justice. “MRI Diagnostic Testing Company, Imagimed LLC, and Its Former Owners and Chief Radiologist to Pay $3.57 Million to Resolve False Claims Allegations.” Department of Justice. (August 27, 2013). From: http://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/2013/August/13-civ-958.html

Associated Press. “Federal Authorities Settle MRI Case for $3.75M.” The Wall Street Journal. (August 29, 2013). From: http://online.wsj.com/article/APcf5d7d677786468bb9d446b6c3082e5d.html?KEYWORDS=medicare

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.
Copyright © 1996-2012 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.

Hawaii Hospital to Pay More Than $451,000 to Resolve Whistleblower/Qui Tam Allegation of Improper Claims

6 Indest-2008-3By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

Wahiawa General Hospital in Honolulu, Hawaii, agreed to pay $451,428 to settle two lawsuits alleging that the hospital improperly billed Medicare, Medicaid and Tricare. The settlement stemmed from a civil whistleblower/qui tam lawsuit. The lawsuit was filed by a doctor who allegedly worked at an outpatient clinic operated by Wahiawa General Hospital, according to the Department of Justice (DOJ). Wahiawa General Hospital signed the settlement agreement on August 29, 2013.

To read the press release from the DOJ, click here.

Whistleblower Receives Money in Settlement and Attorneys’ Fees Paid by Hospital.

According to the DOJ, the federal and state governments alleged that Wahiawa General Hospital wrongfully submitted claims to Medicare, Medicaid and Tricare from April 2008 through March 2011. The investigation was initiated after a doctor alleged the hospital submitted bills for services provided by resident doctors without the level of supervision required by law.

On top of the more than $451,000 settlement, Wahiawa General Hospital agreed to pay $75,000 in attorneys’ fees and costs to the attorneys who represented the doctor. The doctor will also receive more than $84,600 as part of the settlement, under the False Claims Act. To learn more on whistleblower/qui tam cases, read our two-part blog. Click here for part one, and click here for part two.

Most Qui Tams Filed by Doctors, Nurses and Employees.

From our review of whistleblower/qui tam cases that have been unsealed by the government, it appears most of these are filed by physicians, nurses or hospital staff employees who have some knowledge of false billing or inappropriate coding taking place. Normally the government will want to see some actual documentation of the claims submitted by the hospital or other institution. Usually physicians, nurses or staff employees have access to such documentation. Whistleblowers are urged to come forward as soon as possible. In many circumstances, documentation that shows the fraud “disappears” or cannot be located once it is known that a company is under investigation.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced with Qui Tam or Whistleblower Cases.

Attorneys with The Health Law Firm also represent health care professionals and health facilities in qui tam or whistleblower cases both in defending such claims and in bringing such claims. We have developed relationships with recognized experts in health care accounting, health care financing, utilization review, medical review, filling, coding, and other services that assist us in such matters. We have represented doctors, nurses and others as relators in bringing qui tam or whistleblower cases, as well.

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

Comments?

Individuals working in the health care industry often become aware of questionable activities. Often they are even asked to participate in it. In many cases the activity may amount to fraud on the government. Has this ever happened to you? Please leave any thoughtful comments below.

Sources:

Associated Press. “Wahiawa General Hospital to Pay $450K Settlement.” Star Advertiser. (August 30, 2013). From: http://www.staradvertiser.com/news/breaking/221856781.html

Department of Justice. “Community Hospital Pays $451,428 to Resolve Allegation of Improper Claims.” Department of Justice. (August 30, 2013). From: http://www.justice.gov/usao/hi/news/1308wgh.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.
Copyright © 1996-2012 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.

Feds File Two Lawsuits Against Novartis for Allegedly Giving Kickback to Pharmacists and Physicians

11 Indest-2008-8By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation (NPC) is currently fielding two different lawsuits, filed just days apart from each other, by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). The first lawsuit was filed on April 23, 2013, alleging the company gave illegal kickbacks to pharmacists. A second lawsuit was filed on April 26, 2013, alleging illegal kickbacks were paid by NPC to health care providers. According to the DOJ, the government’s complaint seeks damages and civil penalties under the False Claims Act, and under the common law for paying kickbacks to doctors to induce them to prescribe NPC products that were reimbursed by federal health care programs.

Click here to read the entire press release from the DOJ.

Doctors and Pharmacists Allegedly Paid to Prescribe.

Both lawsuits allege NPC violated the Anti-Kickback Statute. In the April 23, 2013, complaint against NPC the lawsuit alleges the company gave kickbacks, in the form of rebates and discounts to pharmacies in exchange for the pharmacies’ cooperation in switching patients from competitors’ drugs to NPC products.

The April 26, 2013, lawsuit accuses NPC of paying doctors to speak about certain drugs at events that were allegedly social occasions. Many of the programs were allegedly held in circumstances in which it would be impossible to have a presentation. According to the DOJ, this included fishing trips off the Florida coast and meetings in Hooters restaurants. NPC is also accused of treating health care professionals to expensive dinners. The payments and dinners were apparently kickbacks to the doctors for writing prescriptions for NPC drugs.

Doctors in the Sunshine State Allegedly Involved.

The lawsuit alleges at least six Florida doctors of participating in the bogus conferences and taking thousands of dollars in kickbacks, according to the Tampa Bay Times. The doctors are not named or charged in the civil lawsuit.

To read the allegations listed in the lawsuit against Florida doctors, click here for the Tampa Bay Times article.

Novartis Claims Discounts and Physician Speaker Programs Were Legitimate.

In a press release, NPC disputes all of the government’s allegations. The pharmaceutical company states that discounts and rebates by pharmaceutical companies are a customary and legal procedure, as recognized by the government. It also addresses the physician speaker programs by saying the programs are also acceptable practices designed to inform physicians about the uses of different types of medicines. Click here to read the entire press release from NPC.

Kickbacks and The Law.

For years drug companies have paid doctors to speak about new drugs at educational conferences with other health care professionals. The practice is legal, but considered questionable.

Under the Anti-Kickback Statute, it’s a felony for health care professionals to accept bribes in exchange for recommending a drug or service covered by Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE or the Department of Veterans Affairs health care program.

Whistleblower or Qui Tam Lawsuits Can Results in a Big Pay Day.

The original complaint against NPC was allegedly filed under the qui tam, or whistleblower, provisions of the False Claims Act by a former sales representative.

Individuals working in the health care industry, whether for hospitals, pharmacies, nursing homes, medical groups, home health agencies or others, often become aware of questionable activities.  Often they are even asked to participate in it. In many cases the activity may amount to fraud on the government.

In a two-part blog series on whistleblower/qui tam lawsuits I explain types of false claims, the reward programs for coming forward with a false claim, who can file a whistleblower/qui tam lawsuit, and more. Click here to read the first part of this blog, and click here for the second part.

The Health Law Firm Lawyers are Experienced with Qui Tam or Whistleblower Cases.

Attorneys with The Health Law Firm represent plaintiffs, patients, health care professionals and health facilities in qui tam or whistleblower cases. We have developed relationships with recognized experts in health care accounting, health care financing, utilization review, medical review, filling, coding, and other services that assist us in such matters.

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

Sound Off.

Have you head about these two lawsuits? What are your thoughts? Please leave any thoughtful comments below.

Sources:

Masow, Julie. “Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation Disputes Allegations in Two US Government Lawsuits and Looks Forward to a Fair Discussion of the Facts.” Novartis Pharmaceuticals. (April 26, 2013). From: http://www.pharma.us.novartis.com/newsroom/pressreleases/137176.shtml

Davis, Brittany Alana. “Lawsuit: Pharmaceutical Company Gave Kickbacks to Florida Doctors.” Tampa Bay Times. (May 3, 2013). From: http://www.tampabay.com/news/courts/lawsuit-pharmaceutical-company-gave-kickbacks-to-florida-doctors/2119133

Department of Justice. “United States Files Complaint Against Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp. for Allegedly Paying Kickbacks to Doctors in Exchange for Prescribing Its Drugs.” Department of Justice. (April 26, 2013). From: http://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/2013/April/13-civ-481.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.Copyright © 1996-2012 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.

Florida’s Medicaid Program Receives Settlement Payment from Pharmaceutical Company

4 Indest-2009-3By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

The Florida Attorney General’s (AG) Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU), 46 other states and the federal government reached a $48 million agreement with pharmaceutical company Healthpoint Ltd., on February 25, 2013. According to the Florida AG, the settlement is in response to allegations of misrepresenting the regulatory status of an ointment used to treat skin conditions and submitting false Medicaid claims. Florida’s Medicaid program will receive almost $900,000 of the settlement.

Click here to see the press release from the AG’s office.

Pharmaceutical Company Allegedly Submitted False Claims to Medicaid.

According to the Department of Justice (DOJ), Healthpoint launched the ointment for the treatment of nursing home patients with bed sores. The settlement resolves allegations that Healthpoint marketed the ointment, Xenaderm, without the approval of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) by modeling it on a pre-1962 drug that the FDA never reviewed. The DOJ states that the main ingredient in Xenaderm was determined by the FDA to be less-than-effective for its intended use. The government contends those determinations render the ointment ineligible for Medicaid reimbursements. Healthpoint is accused of knowingly submitting false claims to Medicaid programs.

To read the press release on the settlement from the DOJ, click here.

The settlement is th result of litigation by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts, the DOJ and fifteen (15) states, including Florida.

Responding to a Medicaid Audit.

Should you find yourself, your facility or your health practice the subject of a Medicaid audit by your state Medicaid agency or audit contractor, there are a few things you should know.

The most important thing is that just because you are being audited, it does not mean that you or your business has done anything wrong. State and federal governments conduct audits for many different reasons. Typical ones include: special audits of high-fraud geographic areas, auditing of particular billing codes, randomly selected provider auditing, and complaints of possible fraud.

Click here to see a complete list of steps you should take in order to compile and provide a set of records that will best serve to help you avoid any liability at the conclusion of the audit process.


Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced in Handling Medicaid Audits, Investigations and other Legal Proceedings.


Medicaid fraud is a serious crime and is vigorously investigated by the state MFCU, the Agency for Healthcare Administration (AHCA), the Zone Program Integrity Contractors (ZPICs), the FBI, the Office of Inspector General (OIG) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). Often other state and federal agencies, including the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), and other law enforcement agencies participate. Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you are concerned of any possible violations and would like a confidential consultation, contact a qualified health attorney familiar with medical billing and audits today. Often Medicaid fraud criminal charges arise out of routine Medicaid audits, probe audits, or patient complaints.

The Health Law Firm’s attorneys routinely represent physicians, dentists, orthodontists, medical groups, clinics, pharmacies, assisted living facilities (AFLs), home health care agencies, nursing homes, group homes and other healthcare providers in Medicaid and Medicare investigations, audits and recovery actions. We also represent health professionals and others who know of Medicare and Medicaid fraud to file whistleblower and qui tam cases.

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 settlement agreement? Please leave any thoughtful comments below.

Sources:

Meale, Jenn. “Attorney General Bondi’s Office Reaches Settlement with Pharmaceutical Company.” Florida Office of the Attorney General. (February 25, 2013). From: http://www.myfloridalegal.com/newsrel.nsf/newsreleases/D69C285712F6FF9185257B1D004D275D

Department of Justice. “Healthpoint Ltd. to Pay up to $48 Million for False Medicaid and Medicare Claims for Unapproved Prescription Drug.” Department of Justice. (December 6, 2013). From: http://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/2012/December/12-civ-1459.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.

Copyright © 1996-2012 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.

New Hampshire Dentist Indicted on 189 Counts of Medicaid Fraud

George IndestBy 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

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.

Copyright © 1996-2012 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.

Health Care Fraud Puts Miami Man in Jail

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

4.5 Year Sentence for Role in Fraud.

A Miami Man voluntarily returned to Miami from Cuba and was immediately met with a 4.5-year long prison sentence.  Jose Gerardo Gonzalez, played a role in a scheme to defraud public schools and private health care insurers of $126 million.

Gonzalez allegedly created shell companies that submitted false health care claims. The private insurers were ultimately at lose for millions of dollars. Gonzalez fled to Cuba in 2015 after being charged with conspiracy and other charges. Upon voluntary return to Florida he is sentencing was reduced.
William Barzee, Gonzalez’s attorney, states its uncommon for fugitives to return once they flee to Cuba.  However, our experience has been just the opposite.  In our experience, quite a few individuals flee to Cuba, which has no extradition treaty with the U.S., after being notified of an investigation of Medicaid or Medicare fraud charges.

The Restitution.

The sentence included 4.5 years in prison and restitution of $13.9 million.  In addition, two properties owned by Gonzalez worth several hundreds of thousands of dollars were been seized.

Conspiracy lead remains in Cuba.

Reynaldo Castillo is considered the conspiracy’s leader “employing” several people. Gonzalez played a role in a scheme to target employers offering “administrative services only” insurance plans to their employees. Gonzalez, along with several other individuals, registered businesses in his or her name and opened bank accounts and cashed checks bilking insurers. Insurers that sustained losses include Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and United Healthcare.  Gonzalez and 15 other Miami residents were charged. But Reynaldo Castillo is still believed to be in Cuba, avoiding sentencing.

The conspirators submitted false claims to the insurers using medical director staffing companies to misappropriate doctors licensing information.  This is something we are constantly warning physicians against, allowing someone else to use and bill under their name and provider identification numbers.

Health Care Fraud Should Not Be Taken Lightly.

We have been consulted by many individuals, both before and after criminal convictions for fraud or related offenses.  In many cases, those subject to Medicaid or Medicare fraud audits and investigations refuse to acknowledge the seriousness of the matter.  Individuals facing Medicare and Medicaid criminal charges should realize the severity of the offense.  Some may even decide not to spend the money required for a highly experienced health attorney as part of the legal team to help defend them.
The government is serious about combating health care fraud.  False claims are a growing problem in the program, costing the government billions of dollars each year.  Punishments for defrauding the system can be quite severe.

If you are accused of Medicaid or Medicare fraud, realize that you are in a fight for your life.  Your liberty, property/possessions and profession are all at stake.  Often a Medicaid Fraud investigation will begin with a notification from the investigator. From that point on, all action to obtain legal representation should be made. The investigator will use all information from that point on against you. Be prepared to give up whatever you need to in order to avoid a conviction and preserve your liberty.

To read further about the seriousness of health care fraud you can read additional blogs of mine here.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced in Handling Medicare Audits, Investigations and other Legal Proceedings.

The Health Law Firm’s attorneys routinely represent physicians, dentists, orthodontists, medical groups, clinics, pharmacies, assisted living facilities (ALFs), home health care agencies, nursing homes, group homes and other healthcare providers in Medicaid and Medicare 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 www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Sources:

Crosby, Christopher. “Miami Man In $126M Health Fraud Ring Gets 4.5 Years – Law360.”Law360 – The Newswire for Business Lawyers. LexisNexis, 13 June 2017. Web. 03 July 2017.

Keywords: Medicare Fraud, Medicaid Fraud, legal representation for fraud, False claims, legal representation, legal representation for health care fraud, legal representation for fraudulent billing, legal representation for allegation of defrauding the government, legal representation for submitting false claims, Medicare audit defense attorney, Medicare billing defense attorney, health care clinic fraud audit, legal representation for false billing, legal representation for allegations of unnecessary procedures, legal representation for Medicare audits, reviews of the Health Law Firm, The Health Law Firm attorney reviews, Health law defense attorney

“The Health Law Firm” is a registered fictitious business name of and a registered service mark of The Health Law Firm, P.A., a Florida professional service corporation, since 1999.Copyright © 2017 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.

 

 

 

 

New Mexico’s Largest Mental Health Providers Accused of Defrauding Medicaid Out of $36 Million

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

For months now, 15 New Mexico behavioral health agencies have been the subject of a Medicaid fraud investigation. The state’s largest mental health providers had their Medicaid funding frozen by the New Mexico Human Services Department (HSD) due to credible allegations of fraud, according to KUNM News. The behavioral health agencies are accused of collectively defrauding Medicaid of $36 million over three years. The findings in an audit conducted in 2012, by OptumHealth, the contractor that handles Medicaid payments for New Mexico’s behavioral health system, alarmed state officials to the point that they hired Public Consulting Group (PCG), a firm that specializes in Medicaid fraud, to conduct another audit in June 2013.

These behavioral health agencies provided services to approximately 30,000 patients. According to KUNM News, Arizona companies have been hired to step in to help patients needing treatment.

Click here to read the KUNM News article.

Audits and Whistleblower Claims Uncover Serious Accusations.

The reason for the Medicaid funding freeze, according to the HSD, was the initial audit conducted by OptumHealth, the company that manages Medicaid dollars for New Mexico’s behavioral health agencies. OptumHealth allegedly found problems with billing by the agencies in question. Then a second audit by PCG allegedly uncovered widespread overpayments for services that had never been provided. According to the New York Times, a quarter of patients’ claims were processed with mistakes.

During the PCG audit, whistleblowers also came forward with their own accusations, according to the New York Times. In one case, an employee was allegedly ordered not to inform the state that a patient had died. In another, an ex-employee at an agency reported being fired after refusing to overbill for services.

Click here to read the entire New York Times article.

To learn more on whistleblower cases, read our two-part blog. Click here for part one, and click here for part two.

Mental Health Providers Fight for Funding.

New Mexico officials state that they were obligated under federal law. Under the Affordable Care Act, states have more power to suspend payments when there is credible evidence that Medicaid dollars are being misused. All 15 mental health providers sought exceptions from the state so their Medicaid funding could be restored while the investigation continues. Only three exceptions were granted, according to the New York Times.

Mounting Pressure to Root Out Medicare and Medicaid Fraud.

Just this year, we’ve noticed the government become more aggressive in its anti-fraud and recovery efforts. The Affordable Care Act also gives investigators and prosecutors new tools to crack down on abuse. Now that the government is collecting more money, you can expect their efforts to get worse.

Since whistleblowers stand to receive up to thirty-five percent (35%) of a recovery made by the government, plus attorney’s fees and costs, you can expect more whistleblower lawsuits to be filed. Therefore, it is now more important than ever to verify accurate billing and coding.

Most Qui Tams Filed by Doctors, Nurses and Employees.

From our review of qui tam cases that have been unsealed by the government, it appears most of these are filed by physicians, nurses or hospital staff employees who have some knowledge of false billing or inappropriate coding taking place. Normally the government will want to see some actual documentation of the claims submitted by the hospital or other institution. Usually physicians, nurses or staff employees have access to such documentation. Whistleblowers are urged to come forward as soon as possible. In many circumstances, documentation that shows the fraud “disappears” or cannot be located once it is known that a company is under investigation.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced with Qui Tam or Whistleblower Cases.

Attorneys with The Health Law Firm also represent health care professionals and health facilities in qui tam or whistleblower cases both in defending such claims and in bringing such claims. We have developed relationships with recognized experts in health care accounting, health care financing, utilization review, medical review, filling, coding, and other services that assist us in such matters. We have represented doctors, nurses and others as relators in bringing qui tam or whistleblower cases, as well.

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

Comments?

Individuals working in the health care industry often become aware of questionable activities. Often they are even asked to participate in it. In many cases the activity may amount to fraud on the government. Has this ever happened to you? Please leave any thoughtful comments below.

Sources:

Frosch, Dan. “Fraud Investigation Unsettles Mental Health Care in New Mexico.” New York Times. (September 16, 2013). From: http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/14/us/fraud-investigation-unsettles-mental-health-care-in-new-mexico.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0

Ahtone, Tristan. “A Timeline of NM’s Shakeup of Behavioral Health Providers.” New Mexico In Depth. (September 13, 2013). From: http://www.nmindepth.com/2013/09/13/a-timeline-of-nms-shakeup-of-behavioral-health-providers/#

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. Copyright © 1996-2012 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.

Mother and Daughter-In-Law Arrested for Allegedly Defrauding Medicaid Out of More Than $70,000

6 Indest-2008-3By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

A mother and daughter-in-law duo each face up to 30 years in prison for allegedly defrauding the Florida Medicaid program out of more than $70,000. According to a press release from the Florida Attorney General (AG), released February 20, 2014, the pair was arrested for allegedly running a scheme that involved billing the Medicaid program for services never rendered.

Click here to read the press release from the AG.

Mother and Daughter-In-Law Claimed to Provide Services to Developmentally Disabled Child.

According to the AG, the mother and daughter-in-law allegedly ran a scheme that involved billing the Medicaid program for services that were not actually provided to the mother’s developmentally disabled son. It’s alleged the mother submitted timesheets for work that was not provided. The press release did not state how the daughter-in-law was specifically involved in the scheme.

The mother and daughter-in-law are each charged with one count of Medicaid fraud, which is a first-degree felony. If convicted, the pair could face up to 30 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines and restitution. Additionally, if convicted, this would be a crime of health care fraud. The collateral consequences could be devastating.

According to the AG, the Florida Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) and the Tampa Police Department arrested the mother of the child, and the Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Department in South Carolina arrested the daughter-in-law.

When the MFCU is Involved, the Investigation is Serious.

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.

Medicare and Medicaid Audits Should Not Be Dismissed.

We have been consulted by many individuals, 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 sell everything you own, borrow everything you can and 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. Do not delude yourself. This is extremely serious. Be prepared to give up whatever you have if you can avoid a conviction.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced in Handling Medicaid Audits, Investigations and other Legal Proceedings.

Medicaid fraud is a serious crime and is vigorously investigated by the state MFCU, the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA), the Zone Program Integrity Contractors (ZPICs), the FBI, the Office of Inspector General (OIG) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). Often other state and federal agencies, including the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), and other law enforcement agencies participate. Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you are concerned of any possible violations and would like a confidential consultation, contact a qualified health attorney familiar with medical billing and audits today. Often Medicaid fraud criminal charges arise out of routine Medicaid audits, probe audits, or patient complaints.

The Health Law Firm’s attorneys routinely represent speech therapists, occupational therapists, vocational therapists, therapy groups, physicians, dentists, orthodontists, medical groups, clinics, pharmacies, assisted living facilities (AFLs), home health care agencies, nursing homes, group homes and other healthcare providers in Medicaid and Medicare 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 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.

Source:

Jenn, Meale. “Attorney General Pam Bondi’s Office Announces the Arrest of Mother and Daughter-in-Law Duo for More Than $70,000 of Medicaid Fraud.” My Florida Legal. (February 20, 2014). From: http://www.myfloridalegal.com/newsrel.nsf/newsreleases/5A11AC9DE5E6269A85257C85006D7EE3


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.
Copyright © 1996-2014 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.

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