Related Federal Cases
- Orlando Pascual Jr., HIV Treatment Medicare Fraud, Miami FL, 2023 · Florida
- Juan A. Tony Marrero, Medicare Fraud Scheme, Miami FL, 2023 · Florida
- Juan A. Tony Marrero, Medicare Fraud Scheme, Miami FL, 2024 · Florida
- SouthernCare Inc, Hospice Fraudulent Claims, Birmingham AL, 2023 · Alabama
- Letitia James Blocks Trump Admin’s School Mental Health Funding Cut… · Washington
Health and Palliative Services, Hospice Fraud, Florida 2011
Florida-based Health and Palliative Services of the Treasure Coast, Inc., The Hospice of Martin and St. Lucie, Inc., and Hospice of the Treasure Coast, Inc. have paid a hefty price for their alleged involvement in a massive hospice fraud scheme. The three providers have settled a False Claims Act lawsuit for a stunning $2.5 million.
According to the lawsuit, the defendants knowingly submitted false claims to Medicare for services to patients who were not eligible for all or part of their hospice care under Medicare requirements. The allegations arose from a lawsuit filed by whistleblowers, John Simons, M.D. and Lewis Cook, M.D., who were formerly employed by the defendants.
“When individuals file false claims, they defraud Medicare’s hospice benefit program and divert taxpayer monies away from vital services,” stated U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida Benjamin G. Greenberg. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to aggressively pursue all health care providers who violate statutory and regulatory provisions that are designed to protect the citizens who depend upon the legitimate care provided by government-sponsored healthcare programs.”
“Those who would exploit Medicare’s hospice benefit to boost their profits in lieu of patient care expropriate precious tax dollars intended for terminal patients in a time of great need,” said Special Agent in Charge Shimon R. Richmond of the U.S. Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG).
The whistleblowers, John Simons, M.D. and Lewis Cook, M.D., received a significant share of the settlement, with $476,373.73 awarded to them for their role in exposing the hospice fraud scheme.
As the investigation continues, one thing is clear: the defendants’ alleged actions have left a trail of deceit and financial ruin in their wake. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability in healthcare and the need for vigilance in protecting taxpayer dollars.
Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
