October 31, 2013 — Sometimes the government discovers and investigates False Claims Act violations in the health care industry all on its own. But much of the time, the government has help from conscientious whistleblowers working inside the field. The federal False Claims Act incorporates qui tam language that enables informants to fight fraud directly by bringing a claim in court on behalf of the state and/or federal governments. To reward tipsters with the fortitude to do the right thing, the Act provides whistleblowers with a share of any proceeds from the suit.
Greenwich Acupuncturist Resolves Medicare Fraud Allegations
A Connecticut physician with an acupuncture practice has paid $300,000 to resolve allegations that he and his corporation violated the federal False Claims Act. Dr. Jun Xu’s medical practice, Rehabilitation Medicine and Acupuncture Center LLC, is located in Riverside, Connecticut.
According to the Darien Patch, Xu allegedly made fraudulent billings to Medicare for physical therapy services. The government alleged that Xu submitted claims for reimbursement to Medicare for one-on-one physical therapy services when, in reality, the services provided were group therapy sessions.
In addition, Xu was claimed to have billed Medicare for therapy services that were provided by massage therapists. Medicare, however, does not permit the billing for massage therapy as therapy.
The alleged fraudulent billings occurred between January 2007 and December 2009.
Informants Blow the Whistle on Phony Medicare Claims
Insiders are frequently the first to spot Medicare fraud because they are often pressured to participate in it. That’s when many insiders choose to notify the government in a False Claims Act lawsuit. Waters & Kraus has experienced whistleblower attorneys in California, Texas and Maryland. We understand the awkward, frustrating and often frightening spot in which many whistleblowers find themselves. When you’re ready to collaborate to combat health care fraud, email us or phone our False Claims Act lawyers at 855.784.0268 to learn more about what we can do to make the way easier for you.
