A shocking case of theft from health care benefits has come to light in Amherst, New York. Sreekrishna Cheruvu, a 61-year-old doctor from East Amherst, pleaded guilty to theft from a health care benefit program.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s office, Cheruvu submitted false claims to Independent Health (IHA), Univera, and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Western New York (HealthNow) for medical services he purportedly rendered between January 2011 and May 2014.
The defendant, who was a participating provider with HealthNow, submitted a claim form for reimbursement for services provided to a patient ‘K.S.’ on August 7, 2012. However, it was discovered that Cheruvu personally provided no services to the patient, resulting in a reimbursement of $61.23.
As part of his plea, Cheruvu agreed to pay restitution in the amount of up to $550,000. The investigation revealed that IHA, Univera, and HealthNow lost approximately $196,615 due to Cheruvu’s conduct.
Sreekrishna Cheruvu faces a maximum penalty of one year in prison and a $100,000 fine. He is scheduled to be sentenced on September 5, 2018, at 2:00 p.m. before Senior U.S. District Judge William M. Skretny.
The case is a clear example of the importance of monitoring and reviewing claims to prevent such thefts. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Gary Loeffert, conducted the investigation.
Sreekrishna Cheruvu’s guilty plea brings an end to a lengthy investigation into his activities. His case serves as a reminder of the consequences of theft from health care benefits.
In related news, the U.S. Attorney’s office has announced that Cheruvu will be required to pay restitution in the amount of up to $550,000 as part of his plea agreement.
Contact: Barbara Burns, (716) 843-5817 or (716) 551-3051.
Key Facts
- State: New York
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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