What is health care fraud?

Health care fraud is a form of consumer fraud law in Washington that involves deliberately deceiving insurance companies or government health programs in order to acquire payment for services that were not provided. It can involve false or exaggerated claims, or doctor and patient collusion to provide unnecessary services. It is a crime that costs consumers and taxpayers billions of dollars every year. Health care fraud can take many forms. It may involve billing for services or equipment that were not provided, providing duplicate services, or billing for services at a higher rate than they were actually provided. It can also take the form of kickbacks and bribes, where doctors, hospitals, or other health care providers pay or receive money in exchange for referring patients or prescribing certain treatments or drugs. In order to protect the public from health care fraud, the Federal government has established several laws and programs to detect and prosecute fraud. Examples include the False Claims Act, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, and the Health Care Fraud Prevention and Enforcement Action Team. These laws and organizations work together to investigate and prosecute fraud in the health care system. Health care fraud is a serious issue, but with the right preventative measures and strong enforcement, it can be prevented. Consumers should be wary of any suspicious claims, and be sure to report any suspicion to authorities. It is ultimately up to consumers in Washington and across the country to be vigilant and protect themselves from becoming victims of health care fraud.

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What is health care fraud?

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