Ean James, Medicaid Fraud, Connecticut 2018
Crime Spree Lands Dentist with $148K Bill
A Connecticut dentist has been ordered to pay $148,632.23 to the federal and state governments after improperly billing Medicaid for sedation and anesthesia services without a valid permit.
Ean James, D.M.D., an oral and maxillofacial surgeon who practices at Hartford County Oral Surgery in Bristol and Rocky Hill, caused overpayments to be paid by the Connecticut Medicaid Program, authorities allege.
The government’s allegations against James arise out of billing Medicaid for sedation and anesthesia services without a valid permit to perform those services. According to the State of Connecticut, a dentist must have an active permit to administer moderate or deep sedation or general anesthesia to patients during dental procedures.
On April 30, 2018, James’ conscious sedation permit lapsed. He failed to renew his permit and, on August 1, 2018, the 90-day grace period expired. Despite not having an active permit, James continued to provide anesthesia and sedation services to Medicaid patients undergoing certain oral surgical procedures, and billed Medicaid for these services.
To resolve his liability, James will pay $148,632.23 to the federal and state governments for conduct occurring between August 1, 2018, and June 7, 2019. This matter was investigated by the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Connecticut Office of the Attorney General.
People who suspect health care fraud are encouraged to report it by calling 1-800-HHS-TIPS or the Health Care Task Force at (203) 777-6311.
Mandatory Facts: Defendant: Ean James. Exact criminal charges: Improperly billing Medicaid for sedation and anesthesia services without a valid permit. City and state: Bristol, Connecticut. Exact date: April 30, 2018. Sentence or outcome: Pay $148,632.23 to the federal and state governments. Dollar amounts: $148,632.23.
Key Facts
- State: Connecticut
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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