Qui Tam in Healthcare Fraud

In a realm as vast and intricate as the U.S. healthcare system, the latent specter of fraud haunts numerous transactions, dealings, and false claims. As enormous sums of money circulate through programs like Medicaid and Medicare, the temptation for malevolent actors to exploit the system burgeons. But there’s a vanguard in place, a system of checks and balances — Qui Tam under the False Claims Act (FCA).

The Qui Tam Narrative in Healthcare Fraud

Derived from a longer Latin phrase meaning “he who sues in this matter for the king as well as for himself,” Qui Tam Law allows private citizens to file lawsuits on behalf of the United States government, acting as a whistleblower against those perpetrating fraud. In the context of healthcare, this often pertains to fraudulent claims made to federal programs.

Almost 10% of total government Medicaid and Medicare spending, equating to approximately $120 billion annually, is victim to fraud and abuse. By 2013, healthcare spending surged to a staggering $2.9 trillion, underscoring the gravity of the issue. Among the most rampant qui tam lawsuits related to Medicaid/Medicare, fraudulent billing encompass diverse categories, from cases of total neglect to aggressive patient treatment and even the misrepresentation of inpatient data.

Types of Qui Tam Action Cases in Healthcare

Treatment Issues: At the core of many Qui Tam case lawsuits lies the issue of treatment. Allegations may range from no services rendered inferior to even unnecessary aggressive treatments.

Misrepresentation of Credentials: The sanctity of the healthcare system depends on trust. Yet, some professionals submit false claims, misrepresenting their own credentials or those of others.

Upcoding and Improper Coding: Claimants need accurate coding for services to receive Medicare reimbursement. Yet, many choose to manipulate these codes, misleading the federal government and taking undue financial advantage.

Bundling and Unbundling Procedures: While not directly a violation of the FCA, bundling services for one reimbursement and then unbundling them for another, effectively double-dipping, remains a pervasive issue.

Misrepresentation of Patient Data: Simple inaccuracies in billing locations, such as a nursing home versus a physician’s office, can culminate in false claims.

Anti-Kickback Qui Tam Cases: The landscape of Medicare also grapples with illegal kickbacks, where referrals or orders are made with the allure of a return favor or financial benefit.

Self-Referral Qui Tam Cases: The Stark Act, designed to mitigate abusive self-referrals by physicians, presents another frontier of Qui Tam actions.

Qui Tam: Not Just a Legal Mechanism, but a Moral Imperative

The mutual objective fortifies the symbiotic relationship between Qui Tam relators and the Justice Department: uphold the system’s integrity. With the whistleblower often risking their careers and reputations with their claim, the Qui Tam provision within the FCA offers them protection and, in successful cases, a portion of the recovered funds as a reward. This creates an environment where corrupt practices can be brought to light, ensuring that funds are appropriately used for patient care rather than deceitful gains.

As cases of fraud have evolved, so has Qui Tam litigation. With developments in areas like off-label marketing and best value cases, it’s paramount that those engaged in Qui Tam actions — whether it be a Qui Tam attorney, Qui Tam plaintiff, or anyone involved in FCA matters — remain abreast of the evolving landscape.

The National Law Journal, among other publications, has underscored the significance of Qui Tam in safeguarding government funds. Berg & Androphy, with their deep expertise and resources like the “Federal False Claims Act and Qui Tam Litigation,” further elucidate this complex tapestry of Qui Tam law.

In essence, Qui Tam is not merely a legal recourse; it’s a clarion call for every citizen to uphold the integrity of our healthcare system. As Qui Tam lawsuits continue to reshape the medical landscape, we find assurance that there’s a vigilant watch guarding against deceit and exploitation.

For more nuanced insights into Qui Tam, its implications, and a myriad of related subjects, Androphy’s “Federal False Claims Act and Qui Tam Litigation” stands as an invaluable resource.