When it comes to Medicare fraud, every case is different and the penalties vary from one to the next. Those charged with Medicare fraud often face harsh consequences that threaten their future, not only in terms of their freedom but their financial well-being also. It is important to understand the potential consequences of your Medicare fraud case and take careful measures to increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
From time behind bars to stiff fines and a shattered reputation, there are many ways in which Medicare fraud allegations have the potential to turn your life upside down.
Kickbacks, the civil FSA and Medicare fraud penalties
The potential penalties one faces while facing Medicare fraud charges depends on the nature of the allegations. For example, those accused of violating the Federal Civil False Claims Act face up to $22,927 in fines, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Moreover, these accusations also present the possibility of time behind bars, depending on the outcome of a case. Those facing charges related to kickbacks often face significant financial penalties, from fines of as much as $100,000 per kickback and penalties that consist of three times the cost of each kickback.
The Stark Law and Medicare fraud
Physicians who are facing allegations related to violating the Stark Law, also known as the Physician Self-Referral Law, face various repercussions. For example, these violations often exclude physicians from taking part in federal health care programs and necessitate repaying claims as well as fines of as much as $24,478 per service.