Why Do Doctors Commit Healthcare Fraud?

Many people think of healthcare fraud as the fraudulent use of health insurance to cover medical expenses. While that is a common example, healthcare providers can also commit healthcare fraud. The consequences of a healthcare fraud conviction are serious and can impact the professional future of physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and all other providers. If you are being charged with healthcare fraud, contact Levine & Levine Attorneys at Law today.

Types of Medical Provider Healthcare Fraud

There are numerous strategies that have been used to commit healthcare fraud, unbeknownst to the patient.

Motivations for Committing Healthcare Fraud

The main motivation that healthcare providers have for committing fraud is financial gain. By increasing the number of tests, treatments, and other services on the bill, they can collect more money from the insurance companies.

Other times, however, providers may commit fraud out of the goodness of their hearts. When patients come in needing medical care but cannot afford the out-of-pocket costs, healthcare providers may try to lessen their financial burden by overbilling insurance companies. While this is done with good intentions, it is still a fraud crime.

Penalties for Healthcare Fraud

Healthcare fraud can be both a state and federal crime. Typically, the FBI and private insurance agencies investigate instances of suspected healthcare fraud.

The potential penalties vary based on the types of fraud committed and the level of severity. In general, a healthcare provider convicted of committing healthcare fraud faces:

Kalamazoo Healthcare Fraud Defense

If you are a healthcare professional who has been accused of committing fraud, contact our team at Levine & Levine Attorneys at Law. We have helped many professionals fight their fraud charges, and we want to help you protect your career and future in healthcare.