Fraud & Abuse: Feds Kick Off 2023 With Enforcement Shockers

Why This Topic Matters

The piece highlights the breadth of fraud and abuse exposure in healthcare and the kinds of conduct drawing federal attention early in 2023. It is useful for readers who monitor enforcement trends, compliance risk areas, and government actions affecting providers and practices.

Article Sections

1. Embezzlement

   A case involving alleged financial misconduct by a provider and related misuse of insurance and relief-fund payments. The section focuses on federal charges and the scope of the alleged conduct.

2. Racketeering

   A multi-defendant federal case involving dental practices and broader allegations of organized fraud activity. The section summarizes the nature of the enforcement action and the agencies mentioned.

3. Other fraud

   A brief transition section introducing additional January enforcement examples. It frames several separate Medicare-related cases that follow.

4. Medical collection services

   An enforcement case involving mobile phlebotomy and Medicare billing allegations. The section describes the defendants, the business involved, and the general claims at issue.

5. Drug diversion

   A case involving continued prescribing activity after loss of authorization and related Medicare billing concerns. The section outlines the criminal outcome and enforcement context.

6. Medically unnecessary cataract surgery

   A civil resolution involving ophthalmology services and allegations of improper Medicare claims. The section notes the settlement and the general categories of services involved.