The United States Department of Justice has reached a settlement with Wilmington-based Durable Medical Equipment (DME) supplier Medline Industries, Inc. to resolve allegations of fraudulent billing practices. The company agreed to pay $1,000,000 to settle claims that it violated the False Claims Act by submitting false claims to Medicare for DME that was not medically necessary.
Details Of The Whistleblower Settlement
The settlement stems from allegations that Medline knowingly submitted claims to Medicare for DME, including back, knee, and shoulder braces, without obtaining proper documentation of medical necessity from physicians. The company allegedly engaged in these practices between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2019.
The Importance of Whistleblowers in Combating Medicare Fraud
Medicare fraud continues to be a significant issue that drains valuable resources from government healthcare programs and harms the integrity of the healthcare industry. According to estimates, taxpayers lose more than $100 billion annually to Medicare and Medicaid fraud. Whistleblowers play a crucial role in exposing these fraudulent activities and helping the government recover misused funds. By reporting violations of the False Claims Act, whistleblowers can not only protect taxpayer money but also potentially receive a share of the government's recovery as a financial reward.
Take Action: Report Medicare Fraud By Durable Medical Equipment Suppliers
If you have information about Medicare fraud or other healthcare-related fraudulent activities, The Whistleblower Advocates are here to help. Our experienced Philadelphia whistleblower attorneys can provide a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case and guide you through the process of reporting fraud. Don't hesitate to come forward – your actions could help protect taxpayer funds and ensure the integrity of our healthcare system. Contact The Whistleblower Advocates today for a confidential evaluation of your potential case.
What protections do whistleblowers have?
Whistleblowers are protected under various laws, including the False Claims Act. These protections include:
- Confidentiality during investigations
- Protection against retaliation, such as demotion or termination
- Potential financial rewards if the government recovers funds based on the whistleblower's information
Can I remain anonymous when reporting Medicare fraud?
While you can report fraud anonymously to certain government hotlines, to file a qui tam lawsuit under the False Claims Act and potentially receive a reward, you must identify yourself. However, these cases are initially filed under seal, keeping your identity confidential for a period of time.
