Some of those affiliated with a company operating in the Houston area face federal charges in connection with an alleged fraud on the Medicare and Medicaid programs.
Authorities say three women and others fraudulently claimed over $80 million in healthcare reimbursements. A physician was also allegedly involved in the fraud, although they were not named among the accused.
The prosecutors’ version of events is that the owner of a hospice company and her family made millions off reimbursements and was able to live a high-end lifestyle as a result. In connection with the charges, authorities seized the owner’s mansion as well as 2 other properties.
It was not clear whether at least some of the reimbursements to the woman’s company were legitimate, as the company did operate several group homes in the area for elderly and disabled patients.
The government’s complaint is that the company enrolled the residents of these homes in hospice even though they were not terminally ill.
According to authorities, the woman and others would then make it appear that the residents were receiving hospice care so they could collect additional government funds.
The federal indictment includes 28 counts related to health care fraud. If the women charged get convicted on all counts, they may spend decades in federal prison.
Even one charge of federal health care fraud is a felony that, at most, can land a person in jail for 10 years. Those accused may also face hefty fines and other penalties, including mandatory restitution. Not surprisingly, a conviction can also make it practically impossible for a healthcare professional to continue their career.
Federal fraud charges require a vigorous defense
Criminal allegations of health care fraud are serious. In addition to having to navigate the federal court system, Texas residents charged with health care fraud will be against experienced federal investigators and prosecutors backed by the financial resources of the United States.
It is important for those facing allegations of health care fraud, even in the early stages of a federal investigation, to know their options and to prepare a vigorous defense for themselves.