Board-Certified Criminal Defense Representation In Central Florida

What does it mean to face charges of Medicare fraud?

by | Nov 6, 2017 | Blog |

Criminal charges of any kind can have a significant impact on your life. If convicted, the penalties you could face may include time behind bars, fines and other consequences. It is imperative to confront criminal charges, no matter the type or the nature of the case against you. If you are facing charges of fraud, such as Medicare fraud, you do not have to deal with it alone.

Fraud is deception done with a specific goal in mind, most often financial gain. Medicare fraud includes any misrepresentations or deceptive activities that could defraud the Medicare system in any way. These are serious criminal charges, and Florida individuals facing accusations of this type of fraud would be wise to take their cases seriously and act quickly to build a strong defense.

What you need to know about Medicare fraud

Health care fraud is broad, and there are many people who could commit crimes related to Medicare claims. Some of the following are often connected with this type of fraud:

  • All types of physicians
  • Clinical laboratories
  • Medical suppliers
  • Employees of medical providers
  • Medicare beneficiaries
  • Billing service providers
  • Any person in a position to file a claim

There are various ways that individuals or groups could do things that fall under the category of Medicare fraud. Some of these schemes are quite complex and involve large groups of individuals working together, but in some cases, it is just one or two people allegedly attempting to defraud Medicare. Some of the most common types of Medicare fraud include the following:

  • Billing for services not rendered
  • Misrepresenting a medical diagnosis
  • Unbundling charges
  • Asking for or receiving a kickback
  • Falsifying documentation of medical necessity
  • Billing for services not rendered as represented

Conviction of these charges can result in penalties that will have a long-reaching impact on your life. If you are facing accusations of Medicare fraud or there is an ongoing investigation into your activities, you would be wise not to wait to start on your defense strategy.

The strong defense you need

Defending yourself against criminal charges begins by reaching out for help as soon as possible. You have the right to a defense, to challenge the prosecution’s case against you and present your own evidence to benefit your case.

When charged with Medicare fraud, there is much at stake. Your future and your freedom are on the line, but a conviction and subsequent consequences are never your only options.