Types of Home Healthcare Fraud Charges
Healthcare fraud charges are brought about due to a report or suspicion of falsifying claims, paperwork, prescriptions or other such fraudulent behaviors. Some of the actions home healthcare companies are accused of include:
- billing for services not rendered;
- prescribing and billing for unnecessary services, equipment or procedures;
- falsified cost reports;
- falsified patient records;
- double billing, overbilling and upcoding;
- kickbacks; and
- self-referrals.
Legal Defenses Against Health Insurance Fraud Charges
Our legal defense team is well-versed in building solid cases against accusations of fraud. Those accused may argue they were not aware of any fraudulent practices or did not intend to commit fraud.
If facing fraud charges, it’s important to work closely with an attorney to construct a defense against the charges. The penalties can be quite severe, and you’ll want legal counsel that will fight to have the penalties reduced or the case dismissed. Some of the resources that can be used in a home healthcare fraud case include:
- medical professionals;
- accountants;
- witness testimonies; and
- detailed explanations of the services, patient histories and billing codes..
Possible Penalties and Consequences
Health care fraud is becoming a pervasive issue in the country, and the penalties are quite severe. In addition to hefty fines, those convicted face prison time for each count of fraud. Loss of licensure and job/business also likely will result.
According to the IRS, more than 75 percent of those convicted of healthcare fraud in fiscal year 2012 were incarcerated in some capacity after sentencing. If you or your company is currently under investigation for home healthcare fraud, you’ll want to secure the services of an attorney as soon as possible. Early intervention could make a world of difference in the outcome of your case, so it’s important to get the ball rolling immediately.
Hiring a Healthcare Fraud Attorney in Fort Lauderdale
Our firm can handle your health insurance fraud case. Contact a Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney at the Offices of Robert David Malove for a free consultation. Call (954) 861-0384 to set up your appointment.