The Federal Bureau of Investigation announced a large bust that apparently involves many members of the medical profession, including some in Florida. The alleged Medicare and Medicaid fraud incidents spanned across 17 different cities and totaled $712 million in unnecessary care given to patients, as well as false claims of care that was never actually administered. Well over 200 people were reportedly arrested in the case.
In Miami, some mental health professionals are accused of billing patients for billions of dollars worth of psychotherapy. In fact, it appears that nothing more was done for the patients than transferring them to another location. Some of the other allegations involve medical professionals who billed Medicare for glucose monitors that were mailed to people who had never requested the devices. The parties are reported to have received $22 million from Medicare in the incident.
Kickbacks and fraudulent claims of medical care are also mentioned in the recent massive FBI bust. It is alleged that those involved in the schemes would frequent homeless shelters and pay residents to share their Medicare patient information. A California doctor is also one of the accused, for allegedly billing $23 million worth of wheelchairs that either weren’t actually provided or weren’t necessary for patients.
Those named in the nationwide Medicare and Medicaid fraud arrests are entitled to legal representation in the matter, just as any other citizen accused of crime. In Florida, there are legal professionals available who have experience in these types of cases. Anyone with questions or concerns about allegations that have been made in similar circumstances or charges they are slated to face in court may contact an attorney for answers to questions and ongoing support in preparing for court proceedings.
Source: money.cnn.com, “Doctors and nurses busted for $712 million Medicare fraud“, Katie Lobosco, June 21, 2015
