⏱ 2 min read
A Maryland oncology practice, Progressive Oncology & Hematology, and its owner, Mouhamad Bazzi, MD, have agreed to pay $1.45 million to settle allegations of fraudulent billing for chemotherapy services in Frederick, MD. The practice allegedly submitted claims to Medicare, Medicaid, and the US Department of Veterans Affairs for reimbursement for chemotherapy drugs that they did not pay for. This scam involved billing for drugs that came from charitable organizations or grant programs, as well as splitting single-use vials of drugs across multiple patients and billing for each patient as if they received their own vial.
The government alleges that the practice also billed for chemotherapy drugs that were prescribed but never administered to patients. The settlement reflects the US Attorney’s office commitment to holding wrongdoers accountable for attempting to profit at the expense of taxpayers. The investigation was conducted by the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General and the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General.
The practice’s actions are considered intolerable, as they sought reimbursement for services not rendered or paid for. The settlement serves as a reminder that healthcare providers will be held accountable for their actions and that the government will continue to investigate and prosecute those who engage in fraudulent activities.
The $1.45 million settlement will be paid to the United States to resolve the allegations. The case was announced by US Attorney Kelly O. Hayes, along with Special Agent in Charge Maureen Dixon of the HHS-OIG and Special Agent in Charge Nate Landkammer of the VA OIG.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Defendant: Maryland
- Location: MD
- Source: DOJ Press Release
