BUSINESS OWNER, PHYSICAL THERAPIST INDICTED ON FEDERAL HEALTH CARE FRAUD SCHEME

A Massachusetts rehabilitation center owner and one of his employees were indicted last week on charges of health care fraud and conspiracy to launder money. The owner of Premium Care Physical Therapy and a physical therapist were indicted by a grand jury, and allegations assert that five health insurance companies were scammed in a fraudulent scheme since 2002.

The pair is accused of falsifying treatment paperwork, submitting false bills, and paying people to fill out accident reports. Charts included treatments that were never performed and those claims were submitted to insurance companies for payment. Patients were also offered referral fees for sending new patients willing to submit false accident reports.

According to the indictment unsealed by the Department of Justice, the owner, if convicted, could face up to 20-years imprisonment followed by 5-years of parole and a $500,000 fine. The physical therapist, if convicted, faces up to 10-years in prison, 3- years parole, and a $250,000 fine.

Health Care Fraud

According to the National Health Care Anti-Fraud Association, health care fraud is an intentional deception or misrepresentation that the individual or entity makes knowing that the misrepresentation could result in some unauthorized benefit to the individual, or the entity or to some other party. Health Care Fraud is illegal at both the federal and state levels, and can carry separate sentences if convicted. Convictions can potentially carry long prison sentences, large fines, and suspension or revocation of professional licensure, amongst other possible penalties. Health Care Fraud charges are often accompanied by related charges as well, such as money laundering.

If you are under investigation or have been charged with health care fraud, it is imperative that you call a fraud defense attorney immediately. These charges and allegations are extremely serious, and an experienced attorney can assist in your defense.