Precision Lens, a Bloomington, Minn.-based distributor of lenses used in cataract surgeries, faces federal allegations of using expensive vacations to increase sales.
Here are three things to know about the allegations.
1. On Feb. 8, the U.S. filed a complaint-in-intervention against Precision Lens and Precision Lens' owner, Paul Ehlen, accusing the company of providing kickbacks to physicians like "luxury skiing vacations" and "high-end fishing, golfing and hunting" trips. The U.S. alleges Precision Lens and Mr. Ehlen flew physicians to the vacations on private jets, among other incentives.
2. Federal officials claim Precision Lens maintained an internal "slush fund" to pay for the physician customers' and sales targets' trips.
3. Precision Lens denied the allegations and intends to fight them, the Star Tribune reports. Minneapolis attorney Thomas Beimers told the publication Precision Lens "took care to follow all relevant laws and regulations regarding its interactions with health care professionals. The allegations in the complaint are without merit, and Precision Lens looks forward to being vindicated through the courts."