In a significant enforcement action, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announced that Monica Preston, a nurse practitioner based in Colorado Springs, has agreed to pay $90,000 to resolve allegations of improper prescribing practices involving controlled substances, including opioids.
Details of the Allegations
Monica Preston, N.P., formerly employed at the Colorado Institute for Pain Management in Colorado Springs, was accused of violating the Controlled Substances Act and the False Claims Act. The allegations centered on her prescribing controlled substances in dosages, frequencies, and combinations that were deemed medically unnecessary and potentially harmful. Such practices not only endanger patient health but also contribute to the broader opioid crisis affecting communities nationwide.
Settlement Agreement
To address these serious allegations, Ms. Preston has agreed to a settlement of $90,000. Additionally, she has voluntarily relinquished her Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registration, effectively prohibiting her from prescribing controlled substances in the future. This action underscores the commitment of federal authorities to hold healthcare providers accountable for practices that jeopardize patient safety and violate federal laws.
The Role of Whistleblowers in Combating Medicare Fraud
Medicare fraud remains a pervasive issue, with estimates suggesting that up to 10% of all healthcare spending results from false claims, amounting to tens of billions of dollars annually.
Whistleblowers play a critical role in identifying and reporting fraudulent activities within the healthcare system. By coming forward, they help recover funds lost to fraud and protect public health and safety. Federal laws, such as the False Claims Act, encourage individuals to disclose wrongdoing and offer protections against retaliation.
Call to Action : Report Fraud
If you possess information about Medicare fraud or suspect improper prescribing practices, it's imperative to take action. The Philadelphia Whistleblower Advocates offer free, confidential consultations to individuals looking to report such activities. By stepping forward, you contribute to the integrity of the healthcare system and help safeguard public resources.
This article is a news article for informational purposes only. The Whistleblower Advocates did not represent the parties identified in the story above.
