HHS-OIG details latest fraud activities
By HME News Staff
Updated 11:45 AM CST, Mon December 4, 2023
WASHINGTON – The HHS-OIG’s Fall 2023 Semiannual Report to Congress highlights more than $3.44 billion in expected recoveries resulting from audits and investigations conducted during fiscal year 2023.
In FY 2023, HHS-OIG reported 707 criminal enforcement actions against individuals and entities suspected of engaging in crimes targeting HHS programs and the people they serve. They also reported 746 civil actions, which include false claims and unjust-enrichment lawsuits filed in federal district court, civil monetary penalty settlements, and administrative recoveries related to provider self-disclosure matters. Additionally, they excluded 2,112 individuals and entities from participation in federal health care programs.
Among HHS-OIG's work:
“OIG continues to partner with MFCUs to combat fraud, waste, and abuse in state Medicaid programs. For example, during this reporting period, an owner of a DME company was sentenced to 36 months and nearly $5 million in restitution for involvement in an illegal kickback scheme. The owner paid illegal kickbacks to co-conspirators for referrals or orders sent to DME companies, although the owner knew the orders were fraudulent.”
During the fall reporting period, HHS-OIG made 464 new audit and evaluation recommendations, which they say are crucial to encourage positive change in HHS programs. Meanwhile, HHS operating divisions implemented 493 prior recommendations, leading to positive impact for HHS programs and beneficiaries.
Comments