New York physician sentenced to prison for billing fraud

A podiatrist in New York was sentenced to one year and a day in prison July 19 for his role in a healthcare fraud scheme, according to the Department of Justice.

Advertisement

The sentencing came after Hal Abrahamson, DPM, pleaded guilty to healthcare fraud in June. According to the plea proceeding and court documents, Dr. Abrahamson used several fraudulent billing techniques from January 2013 until January 2017.

Dr. Abrahamson billed for services that were never performed and billed for more expensive procedures than those actually provided, according to the Justice Department. He also routinely submitted fraudulent claims for his work under another podiatrist’s name. The other podiatrist had a higher reimbursement rate, according to the Justice Department.

In addition to the prison term, Dr. Abrahamson was ordered to pay restitution of $869,651, a $50,000 fine and forfeit $177,000.

More articles on legal and regulatory issues:

Pennsylvania hospital strikes $2.5M deal in fraudulent billing case
Utah hospital patient died after surgery as blood drained into garbage can, lawsuit claims
False Claims Act settlements top $750M in first half of 2019

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.

Download Whitepaper

The cost-saving opportunity most health systems overlook

Many hospitals and health systems scrutinize staffing, service lines, and payer contracts for savings. Fewer look at one of their largest assets: real estate.…

Advertisement

Next Up in Legal & Regulatory Issues

Advertisement

Comments are closed.