Quincy Medical Group Settles $500K Fraud Case

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The grimy truth behind Quincy Medical Group’s cardiac catheterization procedures has emerged, as the Illinois healthcare giant settles a massive $500,000 Medicare and Medicaid fraud case.

In a scathing revelation, the group agreed to cough up half-a-million dollars to resolve allegations that it submitted false claims for unnecessary procedures performed by a now-former physician. This settlement follows a related $2.82 million deal struck with Blessing Hospital in August, marking a combined over 3 million dollar tab for what authorities describe as fraudulent activity.

According to the Department of Justice (DOJ), the settlement will see the United States bagging approximately $459,000, while Illinois and neighboring states Iowa and Missouri will share the remaining $40,000. The allegations center on claims submitted between August 1, 2012, and August 30, 2018, where it is alleged that the physician in question implanted coronary arterial stents that were not needed.

“This second part of the combined over 3 million dollar settlement is fair to both sides and demonstrates what should occur when alleged fraud is uncovered,” said Acting United States Attorney Douglas J. Quivey for the Central District of Illinois. “It is very important that all medical providers institute quality control and billing safeguards to protect both patient safety and billing integrity.”

Curt L. Muller, Special Agent in Charge with the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, echoed the sentiment: “The physician performing these allegedly needless procedures exploited patients and the Medicare and Medicaid programs. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to protect the integrity of federal health programs and hold accountable those individuals or entities responsible for compromising our programs.”

Illinois State Police Director Brendan F. Kelly emphasized the importance of ensuring tax dollars are used appropriately: “The Illinois State Police is dedicated to investigating healthcare fraud and to ensuring that tax dollars are used appropriately for the care of patients.” The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of Illinois, visit here.