Between 2015 and 2018, the suspects allegedly set up fake clinics across Florida and used more than 20 physicians’ stolen identities to submit nearly 24,000 fraudulent claims to insurers for services that were never provided. Insurers mailed payments to the 15 “phantom clinics,” but no care was provided at the facilities.
“Insurance fraud is not a victimless crime, and fraud like this drives up insurance costs for every Floridian,” Florida’s CFO Jimmy Patronis said at a news conference Feb. 6, according to WCTV. “Stolen identities, fake clinics and stealing $42 million — this was an elaborate fraud scheme and ultimately consumers are on the losing end.”
More articles on legal and regulatory issues:
Pennsylvania attorney general takes legal action against UPMC over patient access
Texas hospital enters $5M settlement with feds to resolve false claims case
Ex-pharmacy director pleads guilty to defrauding Nebraska hospital of $4.6M
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.