HealthCare Fraud of $2.75 Billion
The Justice Department announced a significant victory in its fight against healthcare fraud, charging 193 individuals in a nationwide crackdown that uncovered schemes totaling over $2.75 billion.
Justice Department Targets Medical Professionals in Healthcare Fraud Sweep
Attorney General Merrick Garland revealed the details of this two-week enforcement action during a press conference, highlighting the involvement of medical professionals in the fraudulent activities.
"Among those charged are 76 medical professionals, including doctors, nurse practitioners, and other licensed healthcare providers, who are accused of attempting to defraud taxpayer-funded programs," Garland stated.
US Justice Department charges 193 defendants in $2.75 billion health care fraud bust https://t.co/hOMbxwc2vU pic.twitter.com/Led3HF3i6z
— Reuters (@Reuters) June 27, 2024
Source: Twitter/Reuters
$231 Million Seized in Healthcare Fraud Crackdown
The Justice Department reported seizing over $231 million in assets during the operation.
This included cash, luxury vehicles, gold, and other valuables obtained through these healthcare fraud schemes. The department estimates that these schemes resulted in $1.6 billion in financial losses.
Garland Vows to Fight Healthcare Fraud
Attorney General Garland emphasized the department's unwavering commitment to holding accountable those who exploit healthcare systems.
"The Justice Department has been clear that we will bring to justice criminals who defraud Americans and steal from taxpayer-funded programs," he declared.
Examples of Uncovered Healthcare Fraud Schemes
The press conference revealed several examples of the fraudulent activities uncovered during the crackdown. These included:
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$90 Million HIV Drug Conspiracy: Three individuals from a Florida-based company were charged with distributing adulterated and misbranded HIV drugs. They allegedly obtained cheap counterfeit medication on the black market and sold it to pharmacies with false documentation. This resulted in patients receiving the wrong medications, jeopardizing their health.
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$900 Million Medicare Fraud: Four individuals in Arizona face charges for submitting false claims to Medicare totaling $900 million. They are accused of targeting terminally ill patients and billing Medicare for unnecessary and excessive wound treatments.
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Adderall Prescription Scheme: Five individuals associated with Done Global, an online prescription service, were charged with illegally distributing millions of Adderall pills. Their auto-refill policy allowed patients to receive refills without proper consultations with healthcare providers.
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Telemedicine and Other Fraudulent Schemes: Thirty-six individuals were charged in connection with fraudulent telemedicine schemes exceeding $1.1 billion. Additionally, another 126 face charges for various healthcare fraud schemes resulting in over $450 million in false claims to Medicare.
Justice Department Prioritizes Stopping Healthcare Fraud
Attorney General Garland reiterated the department's resolve to dismantle healthcare fraud operations. "It does not matter if you are a medical professional or a corporate executive," Garland said. "If you profit from exploiting healthcare systems, you will be held accountable."
The Justice Department's actions demonstrate their commitment to protecting taxpayers and ensuring the integrity of healthcare programs. This crackdown on healthcare fraud serves as a deterrent to those considering similar criminal activities.
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