Health care fraud is one of the most frequently prosecuted crimes in Florida. The federal government is pursuing these types of cases like never before and joining forces with state and local government. With an increase in funding for health care audits, even a suspicion of health care fraud going on at a doctor’s office can lead to extensive and intrusive reviews of files and office protocol. Investigators from agencies such as the DEA or the DOJ will go to great lengths in pursuing a potential fraud case including using confidential informants like previous or current employees.
If you have been arrested for health care fraud or contacted by anyone mentioning health care fraud, you need legal representation immediately. Florida criminal defense attorney Ron Herman stands up for doctors accused of health care fraud. These charges are not to be taken lightly as the consequences can be dire for any medical professional. Herman Law, P.A. will rigorously mount a defense at the first sign of any health care fraud investigation.
What is Improper Billing?
Improper billing that can rise to the level of health care fraud or raise a suspicion of health care fraud can frequently involve:
- Billing for services not performed
- Billing for unnecessary services
- Billing for patients that do not really exist
- Billing for medical equipment not provided
- Up coding
It does not matter of these bills were sent to private insurance providers or to Medicaid or
Medicare, being found responsible for any of these can carry serious penalties.
What are the penalties for Health Care Fraud due to Improper Billing?
The mere hint of a health care fraud investigation can initiate a career altering series of events, starting with licensing investigations. If found guilty of healthcare fraud, you may face jail time. You may also be charged with other crimes associated with improper billing, such as:
- False Claims Act violation
- Wire Fraud
- Money Laundering
Additionally, the fines associated with the civil penalties associated with these crimes are shocking. You may be charged a fine of up to $250,000 for health care fraud. This is in addition to the restitution you may be ordered to pay.
Other penalties may include:
- Losing your license to practice medicine
- Losing your DEA registration
- Exclusion from billing Medicare or Medicaid
- Suspended pay on any outstanding invoices.
A health care fraud charge can be an unimaginable personal and professional setback. A health care fraud conviction can irreparably harm your future.
Rigorously Defending Doctors and Health Care Professionals Against Fraud Allegations.
When your personal and professional life are on the line, there is no time to delay. Contact criminal defense attorney Ron Herman at the first hint that you may be investigated for health care fraud. At Herman Law, P.A. you will get experienced, dedicated criminal defense representation to fight for you every step of the way.