Department of Justice Serious about Medicare Fraud

As anticipated, on July 16, the Department of Justice (DOJ) delivered indictments to 94 defendants - including doctors, nurses, practice groups, medical facilities, and medical suppliers and agents - for Medicare fraud totaling upwards of $250 million.

"The indictments center around improper billing for equipment never used or services never rendered," says Brian E. Dickerson, a partner at Roetzel & Andress LPA (Naples, Fla.), who defends health care providers faced with fraudulent allegations. 

"It is critical for medical providers to take precautions to ensure that they do not become the target of such investigations," he continues. "Providers should implement compliance programs to demonstrate, if needed, to investigators that proactive measures are being taken to avoid fraudulent activity." 

Mr. Dickerson points out that for those providers served with subpoenas, time is of the essence. Insurance should be set in place to avoid destruction of records or evidence, and counsel should be retained immediately. 

Mr. Dickerson is available to discuss the DOJ's action and how providers can protect and defend their companies against allegations of fraud. [07/23/2010]