Former physicians Eugene DeSimone and Salvatore Conte transformed two radiology labs into COVID-19 testing facilities before upcoding simple tests into high-level consultations and evaluations, according to the lawsuit.
The defendants then allegedly used two new companies to spread around payments, despite the duo’s initial two labs being unlicensed to administer rapid COVID-19 tests.
The lawsuit claims that the defendants owe Aetna $580,000 for damages and attorney fees.
Rochelle Park, N.J.-based Open MRI and Imaging of RP Vestibular Diagnostics, two of the defendants’ companies, previously sued Cigna for denying claims for COVID-19 tests.
Becker’s was unable to reach the defendants for comment at the time of publication.
An Aetna spokesperson said the company does not comment on pending litigation.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
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