Hospitals Risk False Claims Cases for Not Reporting Adverse Events - August 28, 2009
Adverse–event reporting is a hot topic on the state and federal level, and where reporting is required, failure can result in criminal or civil penalties and licensure problems. Now it turns out that the Department of Justice sees fertile grounds for False Claims Act cases in this area as well.

Physical therapist accused of assaulting patient - August 25, 2009
An Austin physical therapist has been accused of sexually assaulting a patient during an office visit.

Medicaid fraud crackdown pays off - August 25, 2009
South Carolina recovered $4.4 million more in Medicaid fraud and abuse collections from health–care providers in fiscal 2009 than it did the year before.

Woman Accused Of Striking Elderly Patient - August 25, 2009
A Broward woman is charged with abuse on a nursing home resident who was under her care.

Lawmaker Says State Needs Background Checks For Nurses - August 25, 2009
A 7NEWS investigation has found a nurse accused of stealing medications from a Denver hospital lied on her nursing license application, and now a state lawmaker says the law should be changed.

State of Washington Awards Program Integrity Contract to Ingenix - August 23, 2009
The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) has awarded a $19 million, five–year contract to fight and prevent Medicaid fraud, waste and abuse to Ingenix, a leading information, technology and consulting services company.

CMS Moves to Ease Outpatient Compliance by Allowing Supervision by Non-Physician - August 23, 2009
CMS’s recently proposed changes to physician supervision requirements for outpatient services should allow hospitals to achieve compliance with less financial strain, lawyers and compliance officers agree.

Physical Therapy Clinic Owner Charged in Multi-Million Dollar Fraud Case - August 22, 2009
The owner of City Nursing Services of Texas Inc., an alleged Houston physical therapy clinic, has been indicted for conspiring to commit health care fraud, health care fraud, mail fraud and money laundering arising from an alleged multi–million dollar health care fraud scheme.

DiNapoli nails medical providers on billing - August 19, 2009
Comptroller Tom DiNapoli has found three medical providers have overbilled the state about $1.3 million. The firms, in Nanuet, Albany and Warrensburg provided routine physical therapy but charged them for the costlier TENS or Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, according to audits.

Watertown whistleblower gets $10 million in Medicaid fraud suit against New York - August 19, 2009
A former Watertown woman will pocket $10 million in a record–breaking settlement of a Medicaid fraud whistleblower suit against the state and New York City, the Justice Department said today.

$Billions in Medicare/Medicaid lost to fraud, abuse - August 19, 2009
Missing from President Barack Obama's health care program pitch last night was the likelihood that increased government control will also mean increased fraud, corruption and abuse of the system.

New York State and New York City to Pay Record $540 Million to Settle Allegation - August 18, 2009
The state of New York and New York City have agreed to pay $540 million to settle allegations that they knowingly submitted, or caused to be submitted, false claims for reimbursement for school–based health care services, primarily speech therapy and transportation, provided to Medicaid eligible children from 1990 to 2001.

New Federal, State Laws Raise the Stakes When Dealing With Employees Who Snoop I - August 12, 2009
The law also requires CMS and the HHS Office for Civil Rights to investigate complaints where a preliminary inquiry shows that “willful neglect” is the cause. And the law raised the penalties the government can hand down.

Ads about free medical scooters often lack wheels - August 12, 2009
Used to, The Scooter Store guaranteed it was free. But after the federal government cracked down on the firm over its billing practices, including false promises about what Medicare or Medicaid would cover, the wording changed.

Six Are Charged in Medicaid Fraud Scheme - August 12, 2009
Six people have been charged with stealing more than $47 million from Medicaid in the past 10 years, accused of using an elaborate system of corporations to mask their involvement while collecting the funds in New York State, Attorney General Andrew M. Cuomo’s office announced in a news release on Thursday.

Local man sought in Medicaid fraud - August 11, 2009
Authorities are seeking a former nursing home employee they believe falsified patient records in order to get drugs for himself.

Physician Hospitals (PHA) Responds to TIME Magazine Article: Filled With 'Incorr - August 05, 2009
The TIME Magazine article "How Healthcare Reform Could Hurt Doctor–Owned Hospitals" (7/13/09) correctly states that physician owned hospitals would be hurt by pending health reform legislation; however, there is little else in the article that can pass as anything more than incorrect assumption and innuendo says Physician Hospitals of America (PHA).

Billing dispute leaves naval families without therapy for children - August 04, 2009
A billing dispute between a military health benefits contractor and a rehabilitation services company has left scores of First Coast naval families scrambling to find new therapists for their children.

Nursing aide charged with voyeurism for phone picture incident - August 04, 2009
State prosecutors charged a male nursing aide last week with voyeurism for allegedly taking a picture of an exposed patient at a Salt Lake rehabilitation center.

Medicaid problems swell in new system
Rollout delayed as private firm works - August 04, 2009
Indiana's nearly 2–year–old experiment with a privatized welfare system appears to be failing. The backlog of pending Medicaid applications has ballooned in counties where welfare is handled by private contractors.

Stolen Medicare cash may have been sent overseas - August 04, 2009
In a probable cause hearing Tuesday, Umawa Oke Imo, 54, of Nigeria was accused of operating a multimillion dollar health care fraud scheme at a physical therapy clinic at 9888 Bissonnet in Houston.

Fifty-Three Indicted in Health Care Fraud Investigation - August 04, 2009
Fifty–three people have been indicted for schemes to submit more than $50 million in false Medicare claims in the continuing operation of the Medicare Fraud Strike Force in Detroit.

Brooklyn Doctor Charged With Workers’ Compensation Fraud - July 27, 2009
Federal prosecutors charged in an indictment Friday that a Brooklyn doctor defrauded workers’ compensation insurers by seeking reimbursement for procedures he did not perform, including some that he said he had done in his office at times when he was actually in Latin America.

Court rejects physician challenge to change in self-referral rule - July 27, 2009
A federal trial court turned down a challenge brought by a group of physicians and physician–owned entities to a recent change in the federal self–referral rules that doctors worry could harm patient care.

Medicare fraud suspect from Miami-Dade flees country - July 26, 2009
Two Miami–Dade men were charged in one of the region's biggest Medicare fraud cases. One was arrested; the other fled the country.

Surprises Arise as Hospitals Struggle With FTC's Red Flags Rule - July 22, 2009
As hospitals and health systems implement the FTC Red Flags Rule, they are confronting unanticipated challenges. These challenges include unforeseen compliance angles involving post–acute care and the National Patient Safety Goals, and patient misrepresentation that can set off alarm bells but isn't necessarily what it seems.

New York Charges Doctors, Hospital Employees with No-Fault Fraud - July 21, 2009
New York Attorney General Andrew M. Cuomo announced the indictment of 12 people and 9 corporations across New York City for their roles in an alleged criminal enterprise that paid hospital employees for confidential patient information, lured patients into receiving unnecessary treatment, and then submitted more than $1 million in phony personal injury claims to insurance carriers.

Fear of nursing homes shouldn’t thwart rehab - July 20, 2009
It is important to recognize the benefits of rehabilitation for someone who is recovering from a medical problem such as a stroke, hip fracture, knee replacement or injuries from a fall.

Tennessee Medical Assn. sues collections firm - July 17, 2009
Health Research Insights has contacted physicians in several states this year trying to collect alleged overpayments.

Five-Star makes complaints against nursing homes even more serious - July 16, 2009
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services showcases the Five–Star Quality Rating System as an excellent source of information to aide the public in selecting a nursing home. But many believe that it will soon serve as the platform for public and private ratings programs such as "pay–for–performance."

Physicians snared by growing Medicare fraud strike team - July 16, 2009
The indictments are the first major actions since the Depts. of Justice and HHS expanded a joint Medicare fraud initiative last month.

Stop Medicare scammers - July 16, 2009
Last month, the U.S. Department of Justice busted a Medicare fraud ring in Miami, indicting eight suspects who allegedly cheated the government out of $30 million. That same week, the agency arrested 40 people in Detroit and Miami on similar charges of defrauding Medicare out of $50 million.

Department of Justice charges 16 in multi-million dollar Medicare fraud schemes - July 11, 2009
In the span of less than a week, the U.S. Department of Justice secured indictments on 16 Miami–Dade County, Fla., individuals linked to Medicare fraud schemes totaling more than $120 million.

Government moves to staunch massive Medicare fraud - July 11, 2009
Since 2006, U.S. taxpayers have paid nearly $155,000 to send home health nurses to inject twice–daily insulin shots for an elderly, diabetic Miami man.

Optimizing Asset Management, Equipment Utilization More Essential Than Ever - July 08, 2009
If you’re a biomed, then chances are you know firsthand the frustrations associated with trying to track down medical equipment and maintain a consistent, reliable preventive maintenance schedule.

Consumer Action / Proposal would require hospitals to screen patients for MRSA - July 08, 2009
Legislation recently introduced in Congress would require hospitals to screen patients to identify those who are carriers of MRSA, to help prevent the spread of the infection by identifying which patients need special handling.

Medicare fraud suspect a no-show in court, is declared a fugitive - July 08, 2009
A Miami man charged in a $100 million Medicare scam stretching across five southern states has been declared a fugitive after he failed to show up for a pretrial bond hearing Friday morning in federal court, authorities said.

Calculating insurance interests - July 08, 2009
LAST WEEK, three insurance executives made starkly clear why President Obama is right to insist on a public–plan option in any health reform package. The three stood before Congress and refused to stop the practice of canceling coverage of sick policyholders for unrelated medical reasons, even in cases where the firms can’t show intentional fraud by the policyholders.

Using Your ECM System To Simplify RAC Audits - July 08, 2009
If you are involved in any way with the administrative end of a healthcare facility, you are well aware that there are many factors that have to converge behind the scenes in order for a facility to operate effectively. A critical component to smooth operations and stellar patient service is the ability to locate, access, and disseminate information.

AMA meeting: Physician supervision of nurses sought in all practice agreements - July 08, 2009
AMA delegates also debated the National Board of Medical Examiners' role in a new doctor of nursing practice certification exam.

Justice Department Intervenes in Americans With Disabilities Act Lawsuit Against - July 08, 2009
The Justice Department today announced that it has moved to intervene in a lawsuit filed in federal court in Jackson, Miss., challenging inaccessibility in Jackson's public transportation system.

Eight Miami-Area Residents Charged in $22 Million Medicare Fraud Scheme Involvin - July 07, 2009
Eight Miami–Dade County, Fla., residents have been indicted in connection with an alleged $22 million Medicare fraud scheme operated out of Miami businesses purporting to specialize in home health care services.

Glenwood review finds progress - July 07, 2009
The Glenwood Resource Center is one step closer to complying with a 2004 court order to improve resident care. The U.S. Department of Justice says the state–run care facility's clinical care and nutritional services are now in substantial compliance with the standards spelled out in the court order.

HCPC Calls for Greater Healthcare Savings Through Improved Adherence to Prescrip - July 07, 2009
With today's announcement that the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) has offered to voluntarily grant some $80 billion in discounts to Medicare beneficiaries over the next decade in an effort to reduce overall healthcare costs, the Healthcare Compliance Packaging Council (HCPC) noted that far greater savings can be achieved if immediate steps are taken to help people take their prescription drugs properly.

Justice Department Files Complaint and Reaches Settlement to Improve Conditions - July 07, 2009
The Justice Department announced today a simultaneous lawsuit and settlement with the state of Texas concerning the care given to residents of the state's 13 facilities for persons with developmental disabilities.

Medicare Fraud Strike Force Operations Lead to Charges Against 53 Doctors, Healt - July 07, 2009
Fifty–three people have been indicted for schemes to submit more than $50 million in false Medicare claims in the continuing operation of the Medicare Fraud Strike Force in Detroit.

8 Miami-Dade home healthcare providers jailed in Medicare fraud scam - July 07, 2009
FBI agents arrested eight Miami–Dade residents at their homes early Friday on charges of fraudulently billing Medicare for $22 million by charging for nurses to treat mostly homebound diabetic patients –– many of whom didn't have the disease or didn't receive the services.

How to Eliminate Fraud From the Health-Care System - July 07, 2009
If the U.S. can cut out fraud from the health–insurance system, we can all save a lot of money and get better care. That’s something just about everyone can agree on. What’s tougher, of course, is actually trying to root out the fraud, or even defining what exactly “fraud” is.

Atlantic Financial Consulting Launches a Nationwide Physician Coding Audit Servi - July 05, 2009
With Medicare audits on the rise due to the Medicare Recovery Audit Contractor (RACs) audits that have been implemented in all 50 states by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), it's essential that physician practices have a compliance plan in place and that they are properly coding and documenting their patient encounters in accordance with Medicare guidelines.

Florida probes Miami-area medical-equipment kickbacks - July 05, 2009
Medicaid investigators are targeting fraud in Miami–Dade County, zeroing in on questionable billing for medical equipment.

Public Comment Period Open for HIPAA Privacy and Security Standards - July 04, 2009
As part of its commitment to a comprehensive review of its standards, URAC, a leading health care accreditation and education organization, today called for public comment on revisions to its Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Privacy and Security standards.

Healthcare owner convicted of Medicare fraud gets jail sentence; whistle-blowers - July 04, 2009
Two whistle–blowers who reported a business owner for Medicare fraud left Wednesday for an island vacation while Janice Davis of West Monroe prepares to spend time in a federal prison.

Patients fume over Cleveland Clinic fee; hospital not alone in levying facility - July 04, 2009
The Clinic isn't the only hospital that charges the "facility fee" or "hospital services fee" for doctor visits and other services it provides at its outlying medical centers. MetroHealth Medical Center, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, and Lake Health (formerly Lake Hospital System) charge them in some cases, too.

State wants Oak Lawn nursing home closed - June 30, 2009
Illinois public health officials plan to try to close an Oak Lawn nursing home despite the fact that Regal Health and Rehab Center now is complying with state regulations.

Multiple personality raised at LI woman's fraud trial - June 28, 2009
Michel is charged with operating a $26–million Medicaid fraud and violating the privacy of patients at nursing homes around Long Island by stealing their records.

Workers' comp insurance about to jump - June 27, 2009
Five years after California reined in skyrocketing workers' compensation insurance rates, employers are facing another round of rate increases, blamed largely on rising medical costs.

HCCA Web Conference Offers Forum on Medicare's Nationwide Rollout of the Recover - June 27, 2009
As the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) Recovery Audit Contractors (RAC) prepare to contact health care providers as early as late June or early July, the Health Care Compliance Association (HCCA) announced it will hold a critical and timely web conference on June 23, 2009, Advance RAC Forum: Questions and Answers with CMS and Leading Providers about the New RAC Rollout. Click on the following link to register: http://www.hcca–info.org/RAC.

Versus Introduces Automated, Real-Time Hand Hygiene Compliance Solution - June 27, 2009
Hand Hygiene Compliance (HHC) is paramount to patient safety and the reduction of hospital acquired infections –– but monitoring adherence to HHC policies has traditionally been done through observation, which is difficult and inaccurate, if not downright impossible.

Day programs for seniors and Alzheimer's patients may be eliminated - June 26, 2009
Caregivers throughout California are up in arms over proposed state budget cuts that would eliminate day programs for seniors and those with Alzheimer's disease.

Families plead for disabled program
Board challenged to look beyond numbers - June 26, 2009
Dozens of anguished families and caregivers begged top state officials not to cut in–home services such as adult companions and respite care Thursday and blasted the state Department of Disabilities and Special Needs for failing to tell them of the proposed changes and the public hearing until cuts were imminent.

How Safe Are Your Medical Records? - June 24, 2009
In October 2008, hackers broke into a data goldmine at the University of California, Berkeley. They infiltrated 20 separate databases kept on a server at the health services center and over a span of six months, stole Social Security numbers, birth dates and addresses.

Insurers ranked on payment records
Bay State doctors waited longest for Mass - June 22, 2009
The state government Medicaid plan known as MassHealth, which covers low–income patients who can't afford insurance, was the slowest payer of health claims to Massachusetts doctors last year, averaging 56 days, and denied the highest share of claims, 23.8 percent, according to rankings set to be released today.

Family claims fraud in nursing home lawsuit - June 22, 2009
The family of an elderly Bridgeton woman claims a Millville nursing home intentionally misled them by promising she could remain in the facility after she depleted her personal savings, and then threatening her with eviction when she did, according to a lawsuit.

Cahokia Nursing and Rehabilitation Center sued over resident's care - June 22, 2009
Velma H. Penberthy filed a lawsuit May 18 in St. Clair County Circuit Court against Cahokia Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Blowing whistle pays off big for fortunate few - June 22, 2009
Since 1986, more than $20 billion has been paid out in fraud lawsuits brought by whistleblowers. It has made some midlevel bureaucrats very rich.

Turning a Blind Eye: Hospitals Fail to Discipline Doctors, Exploit Loopholes to - June 22, 2009
Though a federal law requires hospitals to report physicians who have had their admitting privileges revoked or restricted for more than 30 days, a Public Citizen report released today found that in addition to inadequate discipline of physicians, hospitals routinely exploit loopholes to avoid government requirements, with nearly half of all hospitals not submitting a single doctor's name to the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) in the more than 17 years it has existed.

Vanguard Healthcare Solutions Acquires Rights to Rehab Integrity Pro Software - June 22, 2009
Vanguard Healthcare Solutions today announced it has acquired the rights to Rehab Integrity Pro, the health care industry’s leading physical medicine compliance software.

Hospitals Set Strict Limits on Employees Accepting Gifts Amid Greater Government - June 22, 2009
The goal of gift and entertainment restrictions is to avoid the appearance of impropriety and to prevent improper influence over decision makers at the hospital, according to compliance experts who were interviewed by RMC and who spoke in a May 12 HCCA/SCCE audioconference.

Healthcare challenge:Administrative ripple effects - June 21, 2009
The sheer complexity of health insurance fosters myriad cost ripples at the provider level almost like the tsunami that follows an earthquake on the ocean floor. Almost half of staff members (43.6 percent) at a typical physician’s office are devoted to clerical rather than clinical tasks.

Texas-Based Regency Nursing and Rehabilitation Centers to Pay U.S. $4 Million to - June 21, 2009
Regency Nursing and Rehabilitation Centers Inc. nursing home chain will pay the United States $4 million to settle allegations that Regency submitted false claims to Medicare and the Texas Medicaid program.

Occupational therapist has license suspended - June 21, 2009
A Forest City occupational therapist has lost her license to practice for 14 days, agreed to complete continuing education and received a fine of $1,000 in disciplinary action by the Iowa Board of Physical and Occupational Therapy.

11 home healthcare providers charged with fraud - June 21, 2009
Eleven home healthcare providers from Long Beach and surrounding communities were facing felony charges Thursday after investigators caught them reportedly billing the state on behalf of dead and imprisoned clients.

Panama City Office Under Investigation by Medicaid - June 21, 2009
Florida’s Agency for Health Care Administration (Agency) today announced an investigation into Medicaid billings by Durable Medical Equipment (DME) providers in Bay County.

Surprise man pleads guilty in wheelchair fraud case - June 20, 2009
The owner of a Cave Creek medical–supply business pleaded guilty to Medicare fraud after filling unnecessary prescriptions for motorized wheelchairs, making about $2,000 profit from each chair.

Feds claim fraud by health care CEO - June 20, 2009
Major donor to local causes, from a family renowned in Nashville business lore, is at center of $18M suit over alleged scheme to overbill Medicare for nearly 20 years

Hospital strains to cut elder care costs - June 20, 2009
Massachusetts General Hospital launched a pathbreaking effort to cut medical costs by reducing hospital stays and emergency room visits by the frail elderly – an initiative that underscores just how hard it will be for the medical industry to make good on its promise to President Obama to pare healthcare spending by $2 trillion over the next decade.

Accounting for Disclosures in Electronic Health Records Could Be a Time Bomb Wai - June 18, 2009
The new accounting of disclosures requirements for EHRs under the HITECH Act dictates that providers log all disclosures made through EHRs — including those made for treatment, payment and health care purposes — and report them to patients when requested.

U.S. and 16 States Join Suits Against Pharmaceutical Giant, Wyeth - June 17, 2009
Drug Company Allegedly Failed to Pay Hundreds of Millions In Rebates to Medicaid Program

Grand jury indicts woman on Medicaid fraud - June 17, 2009
A federal grand jury has indicted a former preschool owner from Eagle on 51 felony counts of defrauding state and federal Medicaid programs out of at least $100,000.

In patients' hunt for care, doctor database 'a place to start' - June 17, 2009
The company's approach exploits a wealth of commercially available information. Unbeknownst to most patients and many physicians, countless details of a doctor's professional activities — from procedures to referrals to prescribing records — are readily available, at a price, to marketers, medical information firms and drug companies.

Nursing Home Sexual Abuse Committed by One Nurse Aid at Two Facilities - June 15, 2009
A New York nursing home worker, who was already facing criminal charges for sexually abusing residents last summer, now faces new charges related to alleged abuses that occurred at another nursing home where he worked months earlier.

Care Point had state OK, Westchester says - June 15, 2009
A pediatric clinic accused of using unlicensed special–education therapists was on a list of state–approved providers, Westchester County officials said this week.

Medicare DME bidding program set to relaunch in 2010 - June 15, 2009
The White House gives the green light to competitive bidding over vigorous objections from equipment suppliers and some lawmakers.

Improve Medicare oversight, Miami's U.S. attorney tells Senate - June 15, 2009
Miami's R. Alexander Acosta told a U.S. Senate panel that fixes need to be made at the top to stem the tide of Medicare fraud.

Illegal physical therapist gets jail - June 08, 2009
An Industry man changed his plea to guilty and was sentenced Monday on charges stemming from his practice of physical therapy without a license at a Farmington nursing home.

West Tennessee Healthcare Adopts Quality and Compliance Solution from MedeAnalyt - June 05, 2009
MedeAnalytics, a leading healthcare performance analytics company, announced the successful adoption of its Quality and Compliance Analytics solution at West Tennessee Healthcare.

Former New Albany couple sentenced in wheelchair scam - June 05, 2009
The wife and business partner of a former Worthington businessman connected to a wheelchair insurance scam were sentenced today in a Virginia courtroom.

Former HealthEssentials business manager indicted - June 05, 2009
A federal grand jury has indicted the former business manager of bankrupt Louisville company HealthEssentials Solutions for health–care fraud.

Care Facility Operating Without License - June 05, 2009
A Broward County woman has been arrested for operating an assisted living facility without a license and abusing a disabled adult in her care.

Government-Run Health Insurance Program Made Almost $19 Billion in Improper Paym - June 04, 2009
Medicaid, the government–run health insurance program for low income people that is administered by state governments and funded by federal taxpayers, made almost $19 billion in improper payments in 2008.

Healthcare IT Provider MedPlexus Releases “Three Things Every Doctor Should Know - June 02, 2009
Following the stimulus bill’s passing, the medical community is seeking to understand how the more than $19 billion in healthcare IT implementation incentives will be distributed and what is required to receive them. Based on queries from its customers, MedPlexus, a leading provider of software solutions to medical practices, released today a brief guide entitled “Three Things Every Doctor Should Know About the Stimulus Bill Incentives.”

Six in Ten Say Family Put Off Medical Care Due to Cost - June 02, 2009
Public continues to support action on health reform, including public plan and some tax changes. But argument testing shows opinion is malleable and will hinge on actual debate

Glendale therapy whistleblower case settled - May 21, 2009
A Glendale physical therapy company that contracts with Southern California Hospitals to operate hospital therapy departments, as well as its owners and operators, have paid the government $233,345 to resolve allegations in a "whistleblower" lawsuit that they caused the submission of false claims to Medicare.

Assisted living homes assailed - May 21, 2009
The 48–page report tells the stories of several elderlyresidents like Hunisch, who were allegedly involuntarily discharged or threatened with discharge from the company's facilities when they drained their personal savings and became eligible for Medicaid.

9 arrested in Medicaid fraud scheme - May 21, 2009
Nine people were arrested Wednesday in an alleged Medicaid fraud scheme that cost the federal program thousands of dollars for services not rendered, state Attorney General’s Office officials said Thursday.

Therapy company to pay in fraud claims - May 16, 2009
Business’ resolution represents growing number of cases in which health–care fraud is suspected.

Legislation Aims to Increase Access to Physical Therapist Services By Eliminatin - May 06, 2009
Medicare beneficiaries who need physical therapist services would find it easier and more efficient to obtain treatment under legislation introduced yesterday in the US House of Representatives.

Nursing Home Abuse Continues to be a Scourge - May 06, 2009
Last inspected on May of 2008, Pinelake was given an overall five–star rating, which translates into 'much above average.' However, the same cannot be said for many other nursing homes across the country, or the nursing home industry as a whole.

Cases involving Houston physical therapy clinics show scope and cost of Medicare - May 06, 2009
The United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit has affirmed the sentence of Wesley Alford Boyd, Jr., in a criminal case that arose out of Medicare and Medicaid fraud at six Houston–area physical therapy clinics.

Synergy Physical Therapy raises awareness about plight of uninsured - May 06, 2009
There is a national call to health–care reform, and locally, Synergy Physical Therapy and Wellness, 4510 Collins Blvd., is leading the charge to raise awareness during Cover the Uninsured Week.

Costly Home Health Care - May 06, 2009
Health care reformers have long advocated providing more care to patients in their own homes or communities instead of treating them in costly institutions like hospitals and nursing homes. The problem is compounded by fraud.

Fraud, abuse up cost of Medicare - May 06, 2009
Fraud and abuse helped boost Medicare spending on home–health services 44 percent over five years because some providers exaggerated patients' medical conditions and others billed for unnecessary services or care they did not provide, a Government Accountability Office report out today says.

The five-star nursing home rating system is bad policy, hastily implemented - May 06, 2009
CMS intended for this system to make it easier for residents and their families to shop for care based on a “quality rating.” Unfortunately, the hastily implemented system is far from easy to understand and, based on our analysis, it often does a poor job of accurately identifying “quality” facilities.

Nava Spearheads Legislation to Increase Access to Health Care Services - April 23, 2009
AB 721 will allow physical therapists to act within their scope of practice and initiate immediate treatment to patients seeking relief from pain and injury without the need for a physician diagnosis.

'Direct Access' Can Save Patients Time, Money For Physical Therapy - April 23, 2009
Under Direct Access, a patient can go directly to a physical therapist without a doctor's referral, and in most cases, insurance will pick up the tab.

More abuse by care-givers - April 22, 2009
As reported in Sunday's Saginaw News, state inspectors determined this really happened to a resident at St. Francis Home in Thomas Township, leaving him with a mark on his nose and in a state of "increased anxiety." It also left his family "amazed."

Family of abused patient forgives living center fined $129,000 - April 11, 2009
Now, his family, who asked The Saginaw News not to use names out of concern for the patient's privacy, is forgiving the nursing home after learning that two workers abused him in December.

Inspections revealing -- State Web site posts ratings of Saginaw County nursing - April 11, 2009
Choosing a nursing home is an emotional decision, and families should do so using state inspection data as well as their eyes and ears, professionals advise.

Individual Sentenced for Practicing Physical Therapy Without A License - April 11, 2009
An investigation initiated by special investigators with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) ended with today’s federal sentencing of Michael W. Stinson, owner of Reconditioning & Exercise Physiology Specialists (REPS) in Loveland.

Man Sentenced For Illegally Performing Physical Therapy - April 11, 2009
A man who pleaded guilty to performing physical therapy on injured workers without a license will spend more than three years in prison.

3 charged in Medicare fraud, identity theft case - April 11, 2009
A husband and wife who ran a physical rehabilitation center in San Diego allegedly defrauded Medicare of more than $1.3 million by stealing the identities of seniors and filing false claims under their names, state regulators said yesterday.

Hundreds of disabled Nevada children at risk of not getting therapy they need - April 11, 2009
Right now the fight is on to make sure hundreds of disabled children across Nevada get the Physical Therapy and other specialty services they need. This, after recent state budget cuts could force many to shut their doors.

Former therapy assistant denies charges - April 11, 2009
An Industry man pleaded not guilty Tuesday to charges that he practiced physical therapy without a license at a Farmington nursing home.

Physical therapists, chiropractors square off over bill - April 06, 2009
The campus is heating up today with supporters and opponents Senate Bill 5230 descending on the Capitol. The bill sponsored by Sen. Fairely, D–Lake Forest Park, would allow physical therapists in Washington to perform spinal manipulation, which chiropractors currently perform.

State clears nursing home
Texan Nursing and Rehab in compliance, says report - April 06, 2009
Texan Nursing and Rehab of Amarillo has been cleared by the state after a trouble–filled August inspection put the home in jeopardy of closing.

Lawsuit May have Implications for Medical Collection Agencies - February 15, 2009
It’s not uncommon for medical debt collectors to inform patients that they are responsible for the full charges sent to the agency for collection. However, if the trend of states adopting laws to provide discounts to the uninsured continues, more agencies may have to revise their statements or they could be setting themselves up for a lawsuit similar to the one facing Audit & Adjustment Co.

A profession on the upswing - February 13, 2009
According to the U.S. Department of Labor employment of physical therapists (PTs) is expected to grow 27 percent from 2006 to 2016, which it characterizes as "much faster than the average" for all occupations. Much of the increase can be attributed to aging baby boomers.

Massage bill could increase profession\\\'s legitimacy - February 13, 2009
Legitimate massage practitioners and their clients, devotees of therapeutic, not sleazy, touching are the intended beneficiaries of legislation that takes effect later this year.

CompHealth Earns The Joint Commission Certification
Rehab and Respiratory Th - February 13, 2009
CompHealth, a CHG Healthcare Services company and one of the leading providers of temporary and permanent healthcare staffing services in the United States, announced today its rehab and respiratory therapy staffing division in Grand Rapids, Mich., has achieved The Gold Seal of Approval™ for Health Care Staffing Services by The Joint Commission.

Nursing home checkup - February 13, 2009
More than half of San Joaquin County's nursing home residents eligible for Medicare or Medi–Cal live in facilities considered below average in quality ratings released in December by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

Nursing homes: Rating system a positive step - February 12, 2009
A rating system for nursing homes begun by the Bush administration may be revealing more about their quality – or lack of it – than many may wish the public to see.

Grand Junction man receives \'Stanley Cup\' of physical therapy awards - February 12, 2009
Smith was awarded Colorado’s Outstanding Physical Therapist for 2008 in October by the American Physical Therapy Association. A plaque, engraved with his name along with honorees preceding Smith, arrived Saturday to Grand Junction.

New technology strives to heal injuries faster - February 12, 2009
Powell’s program, ARPwave, stands for Accelerated Recovery Performance. The program claims to get to the root of an injury, help cure that injury 30 percent faster than any physical therapy, and get people back into the shape they once were.

Meadows unveils new rehab facility - February 12, 2009
Helping more nursing home patients return home is the purpose of the greatly expanded center.

Physical therapists in demand - February 12, 2009
Therapists like March help people learn how to recover the use of injured parts of their bodies. They treat people of all ages, from kids to athletes to aging baby boomers.

Pediatric center specializes in treatment of special needs children - February 12, 2009
Before beginning therapy Jhordan couldn’t walk and didn’t want to use her right hand. Now, she is walking and starting to use her right hand more and more.

Fort Collins nursing homes generally rank high - February 12, 2009
Some for–profit nursing homes in Fort Collins are bucking the national trend that indicates higher–quality care is received at their nonprofit counterparts, according to a newly released federal five–star rating system.

Rehab Center Moves; Not Everyone Is Happy - February 12, 2009
Those who have ever had to resort to physical therapy know that between the stretches, bends, massages, heat packs and ultrasound, there is plenty of time to schmooze.

Putnam nursing homes run the gamut of scores in survey - February 12, 2009
Only three other states have a higher percentage of one–star nursing homes, and less than seven percent of Tennessee nursing homes received the five star rating.

The benefits of ‘Wiihab’ - February 12, 2009
Physical therapists see great promise in the video game, which uses a motion–sensitive controller to allow players to simulate golf and tennis swings, among other movements.

The Ensign Group, Inc. Responds to DOJ Inquiry - February 09, 2009
The Ensign Group, Inc., the parent company of the Ensign(TM) group of skilled nursing, rehabilitative care services and assisted living companies, announced today that representatives of the U.S. Department of Justice served search warrants on its Service Center and six of its Southern California skilled nursing facilities.

Robotic knee can reprogram brain - February 09, 2009
Now, a laboratory in Mountain View is about to release a robotic knee that can reprogram the brain while providing physical therapy.

Physical therapy offers evidence-based solution to musculoskeletal pain - February 09, 2009
The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) is urging patients with musculoskeletal pain to consider treatment by a physical therapist, in light of a new federal survey showing that more than one–third of American adults and nearly 12 percent of children use alternative medicine – with back and neck pain being the top reasons for treatment.

2 men indicted for nursing home embezzlements - January 27, 2009
Two men have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Amarillo for allegedly using a Pampa nursing home to steal $28,492.41 from the U.S. government or their employer.

Wii-hab? - January 27, 2009
Herz’s research team used this system along with more traditional rehabilitation methods in a group of 30 patients with Parkinson’s disease and found that it helped slow the progression of this debilitating disorder that affects an individual’s ability to walk, speak and maintain balance.

Board disciplines therapist - January 27, 2009
An occupational therapist who formerly practiced in Burlington has been disciplined by the Iowa Board of Physical and Occupational Therapy.

Physical therapist motivates disabled to push boundaries - January 27, 2009
Leach is a physical therapist who teaches physically and cognitively handicapped students full time at Matheny School in Peapack, and is a personal trainer for similar individual clients at the Morris Center YMCA in Hanover. She also works individually with infants and toddlers who, by reason of birth defect or medical condition, cannot perform the usual activities of children that age.

CMS Issues Historic Star Quality Rating System for Nursing Homes - January 13, 2009
For the first time in history, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) today released quality ratings for each of the nation's 15,800 nursing homes that participate in Medicare or Medicaid.

PricewaterhouseCoopers Identifies the Top Nine Issues for Health Industries in 2 - January 13, 2009
The report is an annual review of the most pressing issues for health executives and policy makers. According to PricewaterhouseCoopers' Health Research Institute, the top nine health industry issues in 2009 are:

Speech patholigist\'s assistant arrested for medicaid fraud - January 13, 2009
Attorney General Bill McCollum announced Dec. 8 that a St. Petersburg woman has been arrested for her role in a scheme to defraud the Florida Medicaid program.

SMC Home Care ranked as one of the state’s best - January 13, 2009
Sibley Medical Center Home Care in Arlington recently ranked as one of the state’s best in a federal survey of Minnesota’s 202 Medicare–certified home health care agencies.

Nursing Home Employee Arrested for Abusing 88 Year-old Resident - January 11, 2009
Attorney General Bill McCollum today announced the arrest of a Broward County woman on charges she abused an elderly nursing home resident under her care. Karlene Brown was arrested this morning by law enforcement officers with the Attorney General's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.

Retrain Your Brain After Stroke - December 31, 2008
Stroke patients often have to overcome a number of challenges before they can get back on their feet. Physical therapists are using a new tool to help patients not only retrain their bodies but also rewire their brains.

Rehab facilities finding many uses for Wii Fit - December 31, 2008
While Nintendo stresses that the Wii and Wii Fit are not meant to replace normal exercise, the console and its games are starting to be investigated as a possible means for helping people with rehabilitation and physical therapy.

Addressing pain with massage
Therapeutic sessions are used to help headaches - December 31, 2008
Massage therapy is gaining ground as a legitimate medical discipline, and it's used for more than relaxation, massage therapists say.

Medical business, employees charged with health care fraud - December 31, 2008
Medic Management billed Medicaid, Medicare and private insurance for thousands of physical therapy sessions, despite the fact that the clinic never employed a licensed physical therapist, and treatment was provided by unsupervised personnel who had no physical therapy training, but all the physical therapy sessions were billed as if they were performed by Dr. Anabtawi.

To brace or not to brace
Consider knee rehab before accessories - December 28, 2008
Physical therapist Winston Purkiss at Sun Valley Sports Rehab said the resumption of activity is often "significantly shortened by the wish to return to the playing field. Rehabilitation for nine months to a year is what I recommend. With pros it's maybe six months."

Health care fraud still a key target of federal False Claims Act - December 28, 2008
Physicians are seldom named in false claims cases but are often in a position to blow the whistle on fraud they observe

Therapy center for special needs children a real leap - December 28, 2008
Three years ago, special–needs children at Intermediate School 180 in Co–Op City had just a single room and a tattered mat for their physical therapy.

New Medicaid plan could open state to home care fraud - December 24, 2008
Home care providers are worried a new state Medicaid program will leave seniors vulnerable to fraud and abuse, and will cut into their business.

License probe leads to indictment - December 23, 2008
An Industry man has been indicted by a Franklin County grand jury for allegedly passing himself off as a licensed physical therapist at a Farmington nursing home by using a license obtained with bogus information.

Guilty plea in nursing home neglect case - December 23, 2008
The corporate owner of a Forest Park nursing home pleaded guilty today to felony gross neglect that resulted in the death of a long–term patient.

Oklahoma state agency puts focus on abuse by caretakers - December 20, 2008
The patient abuse unit receives about 250 referrals a year from police departments, the State Health Department and private citizens, unit chief Don Brown said.

East Moline nursing home sued for negligence - December 20, 2008
An East Moline nursing home is facing a lawsuit from a widow who is accusing the facility of negligence that led to her husband’s death.

Therapist frees folks from pain - December 20, 2008
Harmeling and his staff have contributed much to a practice that boasts more than 50 percent repeat patients, including many families. Not only do the therapists work on getting the patients better, they encourage their patients to also want to get better by helping themselves and following up with exercises at home.

Nursing home physical therapist faces charges - December 06, 2008
Dellarma was licensed as a physical therapist assistant in 1995 and has continued to renew that license, which he currently holds, said Doug Dunbar, assistant to the commissioner for the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation.

Special program helps MHS physical therapy patients - December 06, 2008
Dartfish has been used for years as a way to help Olympic athletes improve their performances by pinpointing every flaw. Now it is helping patients overcome their pain.

State officials defend licensing oversight process - December 06, 2008
According to the department, which licenses more than 100,000 people in Maine in about 40 professional occupations, Dellarma had a legitimate license as an assistant physical therapist.

Piriformis Syndrome won't go away without therapy - December 06, 2008
PS does not have a natural lifespan and will most likely stay until treated. Once it has settled in it can be a difficult tenant to evict. Also, PS will increase stiffness in the hip and perpetuate the problem, so don't wait too long to be seen.

More Than $1 Billion Recovered by Justice Department in Fraud and False Claims i - December 05, 2008
The United States secured $1.34 billion in settlements and judgments in the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2008, pursuing allegations of fraud against the federal government, the Justice Department announced today.

Stroke patients soon may have fun, high-tech tool
Virtual program may aid in - December 01, 2008
The University of Central Florida will immerse stroke survivors in a virtual world full of flying insects to help expand their range of movement.

Nursing home sells for $3.3 million
Springfield Manor plans changes, more r - December 01, 2008
Lynne Bailey, director of marketing and admissions for the home, said the buyers were a godsend to the building, which had been in danger of closing since filing for bankruptcy.

Left untreated, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can do irreversible damage - December 01, 2008
One of the fastest growing diagnoses in the country, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome affects millions of Americans each year.

Miami Physician Sentenced to 84 Months in Prison for $26.2 Million Medicare Frau - November 30, 2008
Clinic Administrator Sentenced to 70 Months for $11 million Medicare Fraud

State probes fraud at adult day cares - November 30, 2008
State investigators suspect nearly one–third of New Jersey's adult day care centers have committed Medicaid fraud and recently revoked 41 operators' authority to determine if senior citizens are eligible for the program.

Partnership reached : Mercy and Cornerstone Healthcare will keep outpatient ther - November 30, 2008
Kilgore, president of Cornerstone Healthcare, which currently has 70 therapists in its various locations and manages Highland Health and Rehabilitation Center in Bella Vista and Ashley Health and Rehabilitation Center in Rogers, was interested in finding a solution that would keep those services from dissolving.

New Research Shows That Combining Aerobic Exercise With High-Force Eccentric Res - November 30, 2008
Physical therapy is a cost–effective form of treatment for Americans with diabetes.

The Physical Therapy Profession Remains in High Demand - November 30, 2008
October is National Physical Therapy month and to celebrate the Michigan Physical Therapy Association (MPTA) is encouraging Michigan residents to "Become a Physical Therapist or Physical Therapist Assistant."

Massage provides relief for fibromyalgia sufferers - November 30, 2008
Because of this extreme sensitively to touch, working on clients with fibromyalgia requires a whole different approach to massage, Yoder said.

OIG Official Lays Out Plan for Combating Fraud to Help Prepare Next Administrati - November 30, 2008
A top official with the HHS Office of Inspector General (OIG) recently unveiled a five–point strategy for fighting fraud and abuse in anticipation of the transition to a Barack Obama or John McCain presidential administration.

Nursing home's residents abused - November 30, 2008
Residents of a Sapulpa nursing home were subjected to immediate jeopardy because of verbal and mental abuse by its former administrator, state investigators report.

American Association for Homecare Proposes Aggressive 13-Point Plan to Stop Medi - November 29, 2008
Tough new steps must be taken to prevent fraud and abuse in Medicare, says the American Association for Homecare, which today announced 13 specific recommendations that could eliminate most of the Medicare fraud attributed to the home medical equipment (HME) sector.

Researchers Study Effectiveness of Robotic Gait-Assisted Therapies for Stroke Vi - November 29, 2008
(PhysOrg.com) –– When it comes to recovering mobility after a stroke, therapists say that every step counts. Two University of Missouri researchers recently studied robotic gait–assisted therapy to see if it is the best way to make steps count for patients with neurological injuries.

Cancer patients finding hope in physical therapy - November 29, 2008
After the shock of diagnosis, the trauma of surgery and the grueling months of chemotherapy and radiation, many breast–cancer survivors still face difficult physical problems.

Pediatric therapy helps little ones overcome big obstacles - November 29, 2008
The Pediatric Therapy Department at Sacred Heart handles more than 28,000 patient visits a year, from newborns to age 17. Patients have traveled from as far away as Panama City for therapy. Common diagnoses of the young therapy patients include cerebral palsy, autism, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, spinal cord injury, burns, sensory integrative dysfunction, orthopedic injuries, learning disabilities, cleft palate, voice pathology, hearing loss, stuttering, failure to thrive and swallowing disorders.

ACHILLES TENDONITIS Rehab with mobility, stretching - November 29, 2008
Achilles tendonitis affects a broad spectrum of people. It is common in runners and walkers, hikers and people participating in sports. However, it is not limited to athletes. In fact, athletes make up less than 20 percent of the cases of Achilles tendonitis.

Employment security: Some jobs will always be in demand, despite economy - November 29, 2008
For a 10–year period that began in 2006, employment of physical therapists is expected to rise 27 percent, reports the U.S. Department of Labor.

Editor of Today in PT Presents Groundbreaking Physical Therapy Book Offering Hum - November 29, 2008
Naked Elbows: A Physical Therapist’s Reflections on Patient Care, Intuition, and Healing, by Anne Ahlman, MPT, was just published by Gannett Healthcare Group, offering a fresh personal and professional look at the world of physical therapy.

Team approach for ALS patients - November 29, 2008
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, often called Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressively degenerative neuromuscular condition that paralyzes the muscles of the body, even those that affect the ability to swallow and breathe.

Pasadena Doctor With Orange County Practice Indicted in $2.3 Million Medicare Fr - November 29, 2008
A doctor has been indicted for fraudulently billing Medicare for approximately $2.3 million in physical therapy services.

Doctors Pay Up to Settle Fraud Claims - November 29, 2008
Six Las Vegas doctors have agreed to pay over $600,000 to the federal government to settle claims of Medicare fraud.

Wichitans indicted on Medicare fraud charges - November 29, 2008
Two Wichitans and three Texans were indicted on federal charges of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and violations of anti–kickback statutes, the U.S. Attorney’s office said Thursday.

Government enforcement of health care fraud increasingly aggressive - November 28, 2008
For years, health care enforcement has been driven by the extraordinary power of the False Claims Act. A violation of the act triggers liability of three times the amount of damages, plus a penalty of $5,500 to $11,000 per claim. Although early False Claims Act cases focused on prosecuting providers for submitting claims that were false, such as upcoding, billing for a non–covered service as if it were a covered service or billing for a service not performed at all, government theories of liability under the statute have expanded dramatically.

California Physical Therapists Promote Nintendo Wii for Core Strength and Fitnes - November 21, 2008
With October being National Physical Therapy Awareness Month, expect Nintendo Wiis to be flying off the shelves. Among the first in line will be members of the California Physical Therapy Association (CPTA), who stand by the video game console and its accompanying sports and fitness games as one of the best therapeutic technology inventions to roll out in a long time.

Physical therapist assistant program proposes expansion
SIU School of Medici - November 21, 2008
That proposal calls for PTA classes in Carbondale to be simultaneously taught at the SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, said Jan Rogers, the program's director. Students in Springfield would perform clinical work at Memorial Medical Center of Springfield, the teaching hospital attached to the School of Medicine and participate in Internet–based classes.

EntireCare helps athletes get back on their feet - November 21, 2008
The EntireCare department has expanded its facilities. Besides the facility located at the VVMC, the EntireCare department opened a location in Camp Verde. David Castillo and a small staff provide help with current patient needs as well as preventative programs in the area.

Trying to put a halt to falls - November 21, 2008
With an aging population and more people remaining in their homes into the twilight years, those who care for seniors are bracing for the difficult task of trying to catch seniors before they fall.

Exercise Rehab Appears Useful and Safe After Lumbar Disc Surgery - November 21, 2008
A review of 14 randomized controlled trials showed that performing some type of exercise after surgery was associated with significant improvements in pain and functional capability in the short term, without increasing the risk of another operation, Raymond Ostelo, Ph.D., of VU University Medical Center here, and colleagues reported in a Cochrane Review.

Criminal past is no bar to nursing in California - October 07, 2008
Times investigation finds the state nurse licensing board allowed sex offenders, drug users and convicts to retain and renew their permits.

Hospital Settles With Deaf Patients on Communication ; It Will Be Required to Pr - September 30, 2008
Concord Hospital will pay $100,000 in a settlement with six deaf people who say the hospital did not provide them with the services they needed to communicate with hospital staff, the U.S. Attorney's Office said.

Therapist convicted of assault wants new trial - September 20, 2008
A former Limerick physical therapist convicted of having inappropriate contact with two female clients wants a new trial, alleging his lawyer didn't properly prepare him to testify.

St. John's Mercy Medical Center focus is on efficiency - September 20, 2008
When executives at St. John's Mercy Medical Center in Creve Coeur noticed patients in wheelchairs lining the halls as they waited for physical and occupational therapy, they thought there must be a better way.

New scams targeting Medicare Part D - September 20, 2008
Seniors in Oregon and Washington have been hit with a new Medicare scam. A fake company called National Medical Office in Washington, D.C. has been contacting seniors in these states saying they need bank account information to send Medicare cards to those being called.

Feds probing complaint at Champaign County Nursing Home - September 20, 2008
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services sent investigators from a Medicare/Medicaid fraud unit to the nursing home on Friday, said Administrator Andrew Buffenbarger.

Lawmakers Probe Problems At State Schools - August 22, 2008
After investigations by the federal government and hearing a growing number of concerns raised by advocacy groups, state legislators hold a series of hearings and studies into problems at Texas State Schools.

Physical Therapists Applaud President Bush For Signing Legislation To Renew High - August 20, 2008
Members of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) applaud President Bush for signing into law the Higher Education Opportunity Act(HR 4137). This new law amends and extends the Higher Education Act of 1965.

Pet Rehabilitation Business Gains Strength: California Animal Rehabilitation Fac - August 20, 2008
Two Los Angeles area doctors are showing pet owners and veterinarians that rehabilitation gets their pet's paws moving better. Since opening in June 2007, California Animal Rehabilitation, Southern California's first physical rehabilitation center for pets as rehabilitation and the only facility of its kind in the U.S. owned and operated by both a veterinarian and a doctor of physical therapy, is fast becoming a welcome option in pet healthcare.

'Never events': Utah hospitals saw nearly 60 serious errors in 2007 - August 20, 2008
Utah started tracking never events, also called sentinel events, in 2001, after a landmark study by the Institute of Medicine titled "To Err is Human: Building a Safer Health System." The IOM estimates medical errors may cause 98,000 deaths a year.

Birth to 3 program changes worry providers, parents - August 13, 2008
Proposed changes to the Birth to 3 program have parents and service providers nervous about what those changes will mean for kids like David Drolc, as well as what effect they’ll have on the pocketbooks of the speech, occupational and physical therapists who work with them.

Physical therapists offer low-cost solution to high-cost expenditures for acute - August 12, 2008
New research shows that the type of physical therapy care provided for low back pain may impact subsequent health care costs

Three Indian students score top physical therapist awards - August 11, 2008
The MGH Institute of Health Professions, an academic affiliate of Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, recently gave its top three physical therapist awards to international students from India.

Foundation Awards $292,500 In Doctoral Scholarships To 25 Physical Therapists - July 28, 2008
The Foundation for Physical Therapy Board of Trustees recently awarded a total of $292,500 in Promotion of Doctoral Scholarships (PODS I & II) to 25 physical therapists.

Wii Fit Nintendo game makes physical therapy fun - July 22, 2008
Physical therapy is best served with a little camaraderie and light conversation, but therapist Nancy Ditzel also dished out some fun to recovering stroke patient Marilyn Smigelski recently. The LakeEast Hospital therapist put Smigelski to work on the latest Nintendo Wii video system game, called Fit. While the American Physical Therapy Association magazine recently reported widespread use among members of Wii games that simulate sports like tennis and bowling, the Lake hospital system is the first locally to use the Fit game in physical therapy.

Audit: Special Ed Students Not Getting Services - June 29, 2008
The New York City Department of Education must improve the timeliness of its evaluations and placements of special education student applicants, according to report released by New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. The report also noted that the number of students who do not receive recommended support services, such as speech or physical therapy, doubled between 2003 and 2007.

New York state to start registry of home health aides - June 15, 2008
After a series of scandals in New York's home–health–care industry, legislative leaders and Attorney General Andrew Cuomo agreed on Wednesday to start a state registry of home health aides.

Utah's Nursing Homes: Compromised Care - June 15, 2008
A Salt Lake Tribune investigation of Utah's 91 nursing homes shows that ownership is probably the best predictor of quality care. But the public has no easy way to identify who owns the homes, particularly when names are changed to hide a troubled past.

AG Cuomo charges two Rochester area nursing home aides - May 29, 2008
Today Attorney General Andrew Cuomo announced his office has filed charges against two Rochester area nursing home employees: one who allegedly used patients' personal information to secure utility services for her home and another who allegedly falsified paperwork to cover up his prior criminal background.

Springfield nursing home cited after resident dies - May 04, 2008
Springfield nursing home was cited after investigators determined employees had not adequately addressed the needs of a patient who later died.

DPT: Preventing Foreign Trained Physical Therapists to Work in The U.S.; New Web - May 04, 2008
Website Forum goers Weigh In: Credentialing Agencies are saying that Bachelor's Degree is not equivalent. Hospitals and clinics find it difficult to sponsor foreign–trained physical therapists for H1–b or greencard. PTSponsor.com has created an online job board where hospitals and clinics can hire foreign physical therapists directly without going through agencies. Foreign physical therapists can research articles and ptsponsor.com directory in order to get a U.S. physical therapy license.

Michigan Company May Buy Haven Nursing Homes - May 04, 2008
A Michigan company that operates 21 nursing homes and assisted–living facilities in California and the Midwest is the leading contender to buy the bankrupt Haven Healthcare nursing–home chain — a bid that would preserve all 15 Haven homes in Connecticut, but that is contingent on its ability to secure Medicaid rate increases from the state.

Therapists question referral laws - May 04, 2008
Michigan doesn't allow direct access to physical therapy, unlike 44 other states plus the District of Columbia. However, it is ahead of Indiana and Alabama, which prohibit an individual from seeking an evaluation without a referral, according to Mike Shoemaker, legislative director for the Michigan Physical Therapy Association and an assistant professor in Grand Valley State University's physical therapy program.

Feds: Taxpayers paid for lavish life - May 04, 2008
The new title paid off big when Stinson collected more than $2 million in fees. The problem, federal prosecutors say, is that Stinson isn’t a physical therapist, didn’t get a license to run his business and failed to report his earnings to the IRS.

Physical therapist indicted - May 04, 2008
A Spotsylvania physical therapist assistant was indicted on sexual assault charges yesterday following a patient's complaint that she was inappropriately touched during a therapy session.

Confusion Surrounds Medicare Wheelchair Policies; AAHomecare Sponsors Workshop A - May 04, 2008
Even though the Medicare National Coverage Determination for Mobility Related Equipment was revamped in 2005, many providers and suppliers continue to be perplexed by complex policy requirements and strict protocols for physician and clinician documentation using the algorithmic approach to qualify the appropriate level of Mobility Assistive Equipment (MAE).

Mountain View Assisted Living receives ‘no deficiency’ rating - April 17, 2008
Representatives with the Arizona Department of Health Services gave a "no deficiencies" rating to Mountain View Assisted Living Facility during an inspection performed Feb. 26. The ADHS has a 20–page checklist for inspections of assisted living facilities. As a result of the inspection, Mountain View had its license extended until December 2009.

Business owners charged in fraud - April 13, 2008
YOUNGSTOWN — A federal grand jury has indicted the owners of six businesses that transport patients in vans equipped for wheelchairs and charged them with health care fraud.

Medicare bidding disqualifies 100+ South Florida suppliers - April 11, 2008
His Miami–based durable medical equipment (DME) company is one of more than 100 in South Florida disqualified from the new bidding procedures for Medicare contracts as the government tries to cut costs and curb fraud. Brant's City Medical and others were rejected for incomplete applications.

Arizona fails to protect nursing home residents - April 10, 2008
The inspectors who license Tucson–area nursing homes showed a consistent pattern of weak enforcement, an Arizona Daily Star investigation finds. Only 15 percent of the time did they substantiate allegations of abuse, neglect or other problems in how the homes cared for some of our most vulnerable people.

Attorney General Conway Announces Indictments Of Three Therapists - April 04, 2008
Attorney General Jack Conway announced Thursday, that three Kentucky therapists from Letcher County have been indicted for Medicaid fraud.

A matter of compassion - April 04, 2008
De los Santos – whose office covers the Orange County area – makes a point of checking out the condition, setting and overall quality of service at each of the assisted living and skilled nursing facilities before recommending them to clients.

Protect aid to those living with disabilities
We must protect this aid, avoi - March 31, 2008
More than 500 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their family members and advocates descended on Capitol Hill this month to educate federal lawmakers on issues important to people with disabilities – from young children to adults.

Woman sentenced in health fraud case - March 28, 2008
Prosecutors said that Hayes and more than a dozen employees and family members falsified time sheets or received pay for home health care work they didn't do.

Hayes sentenced for health-care fraud - March 27, 2008
Hayes, 53, of St. Louis, pleaded guilty in January to a broad scheme to defraud the Medicaid program, which provides health–care services for the indigent. From 1999 to 2005, Hayes operated Complete Care of American, which provided homemaker and personal care services to elderly and disabled clients in their homes, according to a release.

Tax abatement for new nursing home in line for future approval - March 25, 2008
No one spoke against allowing a tax abatement for the future site of the expanding Garrison Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center at a public hearing held Tuesday prior to the Nacogdoches County commissioners court meeting, and commissioners are likely to approve the request next month.

State settles lawsuit over placement of disabled - March 21, 2008
More than 600 mentally retarded or developmentally disabled individuals will leave nursing homes in the next four years, to live more independently in an apartment, family home, or group setting, state officials announced yesterday. Services the state will provide to the individuals in their new homes include personal care assistants, nurses, and physical therapists. Many also will have access to recreational activities, educational opportunities, and job training.

Software Helps Insurers Profit from Denials - March 21, 2008
For the past couple years, Martin Jensen has been sounding an alarm, shouting to doctors and hospitals about the biggest danger they probably don't know about. As an independent information technology consultant to hospitals, Jensen warns that health insurers are increasingly devising more sophisticated means of denying services either upfront or sniffing out money they believe to have "mistakenly doled out."

Therapist’s Office Manager Arrested For Larceny - March 19, 2008
GLENS FALLS—The former officer manager for a Glens Falls physical therapist has been charged with stealing $2,000 from the business.

Interprofessional Collaboration Between Physical Therapy and Special Education F - March 12, 2008
This pilot study investigated a model for interprofessional collaboration between physical therapists (PTs) and early childhood special education (ECSE) teachers. The purpose of the study was to investigate whether a series of sessions in sensorimotor development taught by a physical therapy education program faculty member enhanced intervention planning and classroom instruction for teachers enrolled in a graduate course on child development.

Cleveland Clinic representative visit local pain management center - March 12, 2008
An Overland Park clinic specializing in behavioral pain management was visited recently by representatives of the prestigious Cleveland Clinic in Ohio who wanted to learn from the local operation.

Middlesboro ARH unveils new physical rehabilitation center and MRI - March 11, 2008
The rainy weather couldn’t keep community supporters away on Friday, March 7, as Middlesboro Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH) dedicated its new Physical Rehabilitation Center and MRI. A flood of supporters filled a tent constructed just outside of the center, where several individuals remarked upon the significance of the occasion.

Sunset passes retest from state health dept., has new administrator - March 11, 2008
Problems with paperwork led to the health department revisiting the local facility recently, and that visit went well, McGaugh said. “There were compliance issues,” said Deb McGaugh, the new head of the Brush nursing home. “Care was never compromised.”

Federal Jury Convicts Former Nursing Home Executive - March 11, 2008
Specifically, the jury convicted Ewing, 60, on one count of conspiracy, seven counts of tax evasion, five counts of mail fraud, seven counts of making false statements to government agencies and seven counts of making false statements regarding health care. The maximum statutory sentence applicable to the conspiracy, false statements and tax evasion counts are five years in prison and a $250,000 fine, per count; the maximum statutory penalty applicable to the mail fraud counts is 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, per count. Restitution could be ordered. Sentencing has been set for July 21, 2008.

Stephen Michael Ewing Has Day In Court Over Massive Payroll Tax Fraud Nursing Ho - March 07, 2008
U.S. Attorney Richard Roper said, “This case is the one of the largest payroll tax fraud cases ever prosecuted in the U.S. Mr. Trebert admitted evading more than $34 million in payroll taxes – this is nothing short of egregious. Nursing homes should be safe havens for the elderly and vulnerable, not vehicles for criminals to commit fraud.”

Rehab program charged with filing false claims - March 06, 2008
A federal grand jury on Wednesday indicted a Wichita woman on charges that she bilked Medicaid out of $3.76 million by filing false drug and alcohol treatment claims on behalf of 81 children under the age of 12.

Arrest warrant issued for man who hid camera in massage room - March 03, 2008
PORTSMOUTH — A maintenance man who was court–ordered to undergo a sex offender evaluation, after pleading guilty to hiding a video camera in a Newington chiropractic massage room, did not have the evaluation, then failed to appear in court Monday for breaching that bail condition, police allege.

Surgery 'rorts' to be probed - March 03, 2008
The Alfred hospital and its suspended trauma chief are being investigated by the Victorian Ombudsman over claims of excessive surgery and suspicious billing.

Missouri board revokes license of Wentzville physician - March 03, 2008
The Missouri Board of Healing Arts revoked one local doctor's license and suspended the license of another in the last half of 2007. In addition, two other medical doctors and a physical therapist were disciplined in that time period, according to documents recently released by the board.

Ipswich woman sent to jail on fraud charges - March 03, 2008
BOSTON — An Ipswich woman was sentenced yesterday to a year in federal prison and ordered to pay or forfeit almost $128,000.

Capozzi seeks county Medicaid bills investigation - March 03, 2008
A former special counsel for Dauphin County who has been accused of padding his bills has asked the U.S. attorney's office to investigate the county for Medicaid fraud.

Ex-CEO from Orange admits to using rehab clinic for scheme authorities say raked - March 03, 2008
A former chief executive officer from Orange could serve more than three years in federal prison after pleading guilty Tuesday to federal health–care fraud charges.

Bucyrus anesthesiologist in court as part of FBI fraud investigation - March 03, 2008
CLEVELAND –– Bucyrus anesthesiologist Dr. Hany Maurice Iskander Ibrahim, 47, of Powell, appeared in United States District Court here Tuesday for a detention hearing.

New Jersey court sends blow to doctor-owned surgery centers - March 03, 2008
A New Jersey trial court ruling puts most, if not all, of the 200 physician–owned ambulatory surgery centers there in violation of the state's anti–referral law.

Corporate Whistleblower Center Says Medicare/Medicaid Fraud Out Of Control - March 03, 2008
Americas Watchdog's Corporate Whistleblower Center is releasing its annual report on Medicare & Medicaid fraud, and according to the group things have never been worse. The report focuses on nursing homes, drug/medical device companies, not for profit, and boutique hospitals. The group referred to its findings as grim with respect to Medicare and Medicaid over billing & fraud.

More allegations surface against therapist - March 03, 2008
KALKASKA –– Another woman is alleging wrongdoing by a local physical therapist whose state license was suspended after he admitted to sexual contact with a patient. Mark Melton, 38, filed an appeal this week to get his license reinstated, but remains under investigation for potential insurance fraud after a state probe into an alleged sexual relationship with a patient and an employee.

Medicare Anti-Fraud Measures are Way Overdue, Says Durable Medical Equipment Ind - March 03, 2008
ARLINGTON, Va., Jan. 8 /PRNewswire–USNewswire/ –– The American Association for Homecare welcomes and supports efforts to crack down on Medicare fraud announced today in another of a series of press conferences held by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) on the same subject. The Association continues to work with federal agencies and Congress to prevent fraudulent activity in the durable medical equipment (DME) sector.

Deering vindicated by Justice probe - March 03, 2008
Kerry Deering was in California when contacted Friday for his reaction to the conclusion of a United States Department of Justice investigation that exonerated him of any wrongdoing in a four–year long probe of Physiotherapy Associates.

Speech pathologist practicing in Coral Springs arrested for false Medicaid claim - March 03, 2008
A speech pathologist practicing in Coral Springs was recently charged with stealing more than $20,000 from the Florida Medicaid Program. Amy Heather Spielman, 32, was taken into custody by the Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit after investigators revealed a scheme of submitting false billing claims to the Medicaid program for speech pathology services never rendered.

Maryland Attorney General: Bell Pleads Guilty to Felony Medicaid Fraud Company R - March 03, 2008
BALTIMORE, MD –– Maryland Attorney General Douglas F. Gansler announced today that Guy Anthony Bell, 44, of the 2700 block of Tallow Tree Road in Woodstock, pled guilty in the Circuit Court for Baltimore City to two counts of felony Medicaid Fraud for his role in billing the Medicaid program for more than $4,000,000 for services that were never performed. In all, Mr. Bell knowingly directed his employees to submit over 20,000 false statements to the Medicaid Program. As a result of the plea agreement, Bell will receive a jail sentence of between 24 and 30 months and will be required to make restitution payments. Sentencing is set for November 15, 2007.

Feds Fight Infusion Therapy Fraud - March 03, 2008
HHS Secretary Mike Leavitt has announced an initiative designed to protect Medicare beneficiaries from fraudulent providers of infusion therapy. This two–year project will focus on preventing deceptive providers from operating in South Florida. Providers there will be required to reapply to be a qualified Medicare infusion therapy provider.

Fraud case based on CPT® codes proceeds - March 03, 2008
Billing guidance provided under the current procedural terminology (CPT®) codes was not unconstitutionally vague and, therefore, it could properly serve as the basis of health care fraud allegations, according to the Illinois district court. The complaint alleged that a psychiatrist submitted claims that did not meet CPT® code requirements because he spent little or no time with the patient; billed for individual psychotherapy services during the time that he was out of the country; and billed for services when the patient was not present.

Medicare and Its Contractors Have Failed to Combat Medicare Fraud Effectively Sa - March 03, 2008
ARLINGTON, Va., May 15 /PRNewswire–USNewswire/ –– The American Association for Homecare restated today that the homecare industry, which provides medical equipment and therapies in the home, supports stepped–up efforts to crack down on Medicare fraud and looks forward to continuing work with federal agencies and Congress to prevent fraudulent activity. At the same time, the Association said Medicare has failed to effectively exercise its already ample authority to combat fraud and abuse.

MARYLAND ATTORNEY GENERAL: Baltimore County Woman Charged with Medicaid Fraud - March 03, 2008
Attorney General Douglas F. Gansler announced today that Siddi Jon, 48, of the 8900 block of Greens Lane in Randallstown was indicted by a Baltimore County grand jury with 18 counts of felony Medicaid fraud and felony theft.

Dr. Solis named in scam; Rael posts bond - March 03, 2008
Dr. Rafael Solis, a psychiatrist with offices in Del Rio and San Antonio was named in an indictment alleging 14 counts related to health care fraud this morning before U.S. Magistrate Victor Garcia.

Psychiatry’s Diagnostic Manual Exposed For Its Links To Pharmaceutical Industry’ - March 03, 2008
USPRwire, Mon May 22 2006 The Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR), a psychiatric watchdog group, said that a study published in this month’s journal Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics revealing the incestuous financial relationship between the pharmaceutical industry and the American Psychiatric Association’s (APA) “billing bible,” The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), is a vindication. For over a decade the group has called on governments to eliminate the DSM as a valid diagnostic manual for insurance reimbursement or for the basis of any legislation or court testimony. “It is an unreliable, pseudoscientific document with enormous power to damage lives, while being used to rake in $76 billion a year in international psychiatric drug sales,” CCHR’s national U.S. president Bruce Wiseman stated.

Accused physical therapist may settle
Mark Melton allegedly had sexual conta - March 02, 2008
KALKASKA –– A potential settlement caused the adjournment of a hearing over local physical therapist Mark Melton's state license suspension.

Freehold man, father are indicted in health care fraud - February 28, 2008
NEWARK — A Freehold man, his father and two others were named in a 22–count federal indictment Thursday on charges of health care fraud that included the participation of several unidentified doctors to further the scheme, the indictment says.

Peabody stressing over massage regulations - February 27, 2008
PEABODY–The State’s new responsibility involving the regulation of massage therapists and establishments has rubbed the Peabody Board of Health the wrong way.

Two care homes under scrutiny - February 27, 2008
The future of two homes in Eastbourne is under the spotlight as part of a review by East Sussex County Council.

Washington state doctors, physical therapists battle over referrals - February 25, 2008
A legal dispute in Washington state has doctors worried that their ability to employ other licensed medical professionals –– and ultimately compete in health care –– may be compromised.

Audit finds purchasing issues at Remsenburg-Speonk - February 23, 2008
District officials paid $32,633 for physical and occupational therapy and special education and $6,900 in teacher aid without written contract or board approval, said to the audit, released Thursday by Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli.

Audits hit skilled nursing providers
Caregivers join rehabilitation hospital - February 19, 2008
WASHINGTON – Concerns about a Medicare auditing program that have California rehabilitation hospitals screaming about denials of claims have spread to the skilled nursing sector.

Theft case dismissed against therapist - February 18, 2008
Theft charges have been dropped against a Lakewood physical therapist who was accused of overbilling the city of Wheat Ridge for his services two years ago.

HEALTH-AIDE SCAM
PROBE TARGETS $100M MEDICAID FRAUD - January 04, 2008
August 20, 2007 –– ALBANY – The state Attorney General's Office is in the midst of an investigation into widespread Medicaid fraud in the home health–care industry, The Post has learned.

Firm Charged With Medicare Fraud - January 04, 2008
The federal government charged a South Florida company with fraudulently billing Medicare $170 million for infusions of HIV drugs.

Settlement-Resolves-Investigation-of-Hospital’s-Claims-'>Saint Joseph's Hospital of Atlanta Pays $26 Million To Settle False Claims Act A - January 04, 2008
12/21/2007 – Atlanta, GA – The United States Attorney's Office today announced that Saint Joseph's Hospital of Atlanta, Inc. and Saint Joseph's Health System, Inc. have agreed to pay $26 million to settle allegations raised in a so–called "whistleblower" lawsuit that the hospital violated the federal False Claims Act with regard to billing for inpatient admissions and other services.

STATE: $5M overpaid for Medicaid work - January 04, 2008
Two state comptroller's audits found New York State made $5 million in Medicaid overpayments to 135 home health care providers or medical labs statewide, including 10 on Long Island.

New York AG, DA Charge LI Home Care Agency Operators With Medicaid Fraud, Wide R - January 04, 2008
MINEOLA, NY (October 1, 2007) – New York Attorney General Andrew M. Cuomo and Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen M. Rice today announced the arrest of a home care agency operator and an associate for a litany of Medicaid–related crimes that were committed to bankroll extravagant lifestyles. The arrests were the result of an investigation by the Medicaid fraud task force Attorney General Cuomo and the District Attorney Rice launched in January.

CUOMO VS. MEDICAID FRAUD - January 04, 2008
October 29, 2007 –– State Attorney General Andrew Cuomo seems to be proving the worst fears about Medicaid fraud all–too–true: For prosecutors, it's a target–rich environment.

DEFENDANT IN FAKE FLU VACCINE CASE CONVICTED - January 04, 2008
HOUSTON, TX – Iyad Abu El Hawa, 36, of Houston, was convicted of health care fraud and misbranding of a drug, United States Attorney Don DeGabrielle announced today.

Five facing charges in body-parts scam - January 04, 2008
FOR MORE than 18 months, three "unscrupulous" funeral–home operators stole diseased body parts from the corpses of 244 Philadelphians and sold the tissue for nearly $250,000 to two "predatory" operators of a New Jersey company, a Philadelphia grand jury found yesterday.

THREE PEOPLE INDICTED FOR DEFRAUDING MEDICARE THROUGH BILLING SCHEME
ONE ARR - January 04, 2008
Two of three people indicted earlier this month for their roles in the operation of a fraudulent Medicare billing scheme at a Rancho Palos Verdes agency are currently being sought by the FBI, announced J. Stephen Tidwell, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI in Los Angeles.

Lab owner gets prison time - January 04, 2008
A judge has sentenced a laboratory owner who pleaded guilty in connection with a $2.5 million Medicare billing fraud scheme involving two medical labs to 57 months in prison.

Health Care Trio Busted For False Timesheets - January 04, 2008
ALBANY—Two Rochester area health care workers have been arrested for allegedly stealing taxpayers by submitting false timesheets for work they never performed. A third health care worker who was paid over $12,000 by a nursing home for hours she did not work was also charged.

U.S. Joins Case Against Healthessentials Solutions for Alleged False Claims Bill - January 04, 2008
WASHINGTON, April 26 /PRNewswire–USNewswire/ –– The United States has intervened in three qui tam suits accusing HealthEssentials Solutions Inc. (HES) of false claims billings to Medicare, the Justice Department announced today. Specifically, HES is accused of upcoding –– the practice of improperly assigning a diagnosis code to a patient discharge that is not supported by the medical record for the purpose of obtaining a higher level of reimbursement. Additionally, it is alleged that the Kentucky–based provider of geriatric care knowingly charged Medicare for medically unnecessary services.

Nursing Home Horror: The Dark Side Of Fraud - January 04, 2008
ST. LOUIS–––The 88–year–old woman at Claywest House nursing home near St. Louis was totally reliant on staff for her care. There was nothing she could do about the ants crawling all over her. Or the waste she helplessly waited in during the weeks leading up to her death.

LAB OWNER RECEIVES 57- MONTH PRISON SENTENCE AND AGREES TO FORFEIT $2.8 MILLION - January 04, 2008
(Media–Newswire.com) – R. Alexander Acosta, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, and Jonathan I. Solomon, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, announced the April 18, 2007 sentencing of defendant Marcelo de Jesus Serrano, a laboratory owner, who previously pled guilty in connection with a $2.5 million Medicare billing fraud scheme involving two medical laboratories.

Nursing Home Owner Stole $6 Million For Illegal 'Bed Holds' - January 04, 2008
BRONX–––The former owner of two Bronx County nursing homes has pleaded guilty to defrauding the Medicaid program of millions of dollars by overcharging for services at two facilities over a six–year period.

Nurse Draws 57 Months Prison For Health Care Fraud Costing $3,000,000 - January 04, 2008
Los Angeles, California – LawFuel – IRS News – Yesterday afternoon, United States District Judge Dale S. Fischer sentenced Haydee Parungao to 57 months in federal prison for her role in a health care fraud scheme that cost Medicare over $3,000,000. Additionally, Parungao was sentenced for the structuring of cash transactions, conducted to avoid IRS reporting requirements, totaling $613,710.

Fraud and Florida's multimillion-dollar wheelchair - January 04, 2008
MIAMI, Oct 22 (Reuters) – One Miami–area medical equipment supplier managed to bill the U.S. government so often for a wheelchair it ended up costing $5 million.

How To Use The False Claims Act To Prevent Nursing Home Fraud And Patient Abuse - January 04, 2008
As the baby boom generation moves from middle age to retirement, tens of millions of Americans will be entitled to Medicare benefits. Nursing home care and home health care are two of the fastest rising areas of Medicare spending.

Hatboro nursing site accused by U.S. Attorney’s office - January 04, 2008
The U.S. Attorney's office today issued a complaint against a Holland–Glen nursing facility in Hatboro, which it said operated without a nursing license.

Ex-Chatham doctor settles fraud claims - January 04, 2008
CHATHAM — A physician who has practiced in town has paid $200,000 to settle allegations he defrauded Medicare by submitting false claims from 2001 to early 2007, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Fayette Co. facility under investigation - January 04, 2008
State Auditor Mary Taylor said Thursday a Medicaid provider audit for a Fayette County nursing facility revealed the facility may have incorrectly billed the state more than $95,000.

Auditor finds billing errors at local nursing home - December 29, 2007
The state auditor claims that the Burlington House, a Cincinnati nursing home, incorrectly billed the state for nearly $288,000 in Medicaid payments.

Four Chemical Dependency Treatment Providers Arrested in Houston on Medicaid Fra - December 29, 2007
August 21, 2007 –– HOUSTON – Four Medicaid providers who offered chemical dependency treatment were arrested today for defrauding the Medicaid system. A Harris County grand jury indicted the suspects last Friday. Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit officers were assisted in the arrests by the Houston Police Department. The suspects will be prosecuted by the office of Harris County District Attorney Chuck Rosenthal Jr.

Mental health reform goals unclear, some say - December 29, 2007
HIGH POINT — Six years into North Carolina's effort to remake its mental health safety net, the system still struggles to fix the problems that came with the overhaul.

Midland doctor indicted for fraud - December 29, 2007
A Midland doctor has been arrested for charging for medical procedures that never were performed.

Suit accuses United Healthcare of fraud
It says the company enrolled a woman - December 29, 2007
ST. PETERSBURG – Like many older people, Charleen Edge finds today's smorgasbord of Medicare plans confusing. Last year, she says, she found herself in a private health maintenance organization she neither requested nor desired. Her repeated requests to switch back to regular Medicare went for naught.

Mom of 15 avoids jail in fraud case - December 29, 2007
A 49–year–old physician's assistant and mother of 15 children avoided jail time yesterday for stealing more than $50,000 in phony billing hours from local hospitals.

Ex-WNY doc admits $2M billing scam - December 29, 2007
A former Hudson County doctor admitted in state court yesterday that he bilked insurance companies out of more than $2 million by billing them for tests he never performed on patients involved in automobile accidents.

Testimony: Jesup doctor reguarly overbills public funds - December 29, 2007
lA Jesup physician billed Medicare at six times the proper sum for treatment not called for, a government witness testified in federal court Monday.

Texas Medical Board Disciplines Doctors - December 29, 2007
At its November 29–30 meeting, the Texas Medical Board took disciplinary action against 63 licensed physicians.

Four Miami Health Care Company Owners Sentenced to 57 Months in Prison For Medic - December 29, 2007
WASHINGTON, Nov. 9 /PRNewswire–USNewswire/ –– Four members of the same family, who owned and operated a series of Miami Durable Medicare Equipment (DME) companies and Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation Facilities have each been sentenced to 57 months in prison for Medicare fraud, Assistant Attorney General Alice S. Fisher of the Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney R. Alexander Acosta of the Southern District of Florida announced today.

Sugar Land Man, Three Others Busted In Drug Counseling Medicaid Scam - December 29, 2007
Houston police and Texas Attorney General Medicaid Fraud Control Unit officers arrested four people Tuesday, including a Sugar Land man, for their part in an alleged Medicaid scheme.

Bucks therapist charged with Medicare fraud - December 29, 2007
PHILADELPHIA–– A Yardley, Pa., physical therapist was charged yesterday with health care fraud for allegedly billing Medicare for $1.3 million in work that wasn’t performed.

Autopsy report shows doctor died of natural causes - December 29, 2007
Toxicology results from an autopsy performed on a former Palestine physician who passed away earlier this year indicate that he died of “natural” causes, according to a Cherokee County sheriff’s investigator.

American Association For Homecare Continues Partnership With Medicare To Prevent - December 29, 2007
The American Association for Homecare today stressed its zero tolerance for Medicare fraud and abuse of any kind in a statement of support to the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittees on Health and Oversight after the two subcommittees conducted a joint hearing this morning regarding Medicare program integrity. The statement follows.

Billing practices result in arrest - December 29, 2007
A six–month investigation into the billing practices of a Midland chiropractor has resulted in criminal charges.

Judgments against New Jersey Chiropractic Clinics, Owners and Doctors Brings Lib - December 29, 2007
MOUNT HOLLY, N.J.––(BUSINESS WIRE)––A lawsuit against an intricate auto insurance fraud network uncovered by Liberty Mutual investigators in the late 1990s came to a costly end last week for the owners of two now–defunct New Jersey chiropractic and rehabilitation clinics.

Federal grand jury indicts physician, chiropractor - December 29, 2007
A Savannah physician and a chiropractor have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Savannah on charges of conspiring to defraud Medicare and Medicaid.

Baltimore County Woman Charged with Medicaid Fraud - December 29, 2007
Attorney General Douglas F. Gansler announced today that Siddi Jon, 48, of the 8900 block of Greens Lane in Randallstown was indicted by a Baltimore County grand jury with 18 counts of felony Medicaid fraud and felony theft.

Investigative Report: Remade board treads gently
State chiropractors' overse - December 29, 2007
In this two–part report, we take a closer look at the state Board of Chiropractic Examiners. Stocked with a roster of the governor's appointees, the new state Board of Chiropractic Examiners has been slower to yank licenses and quicker to soften previous sanctions.

Allstate Insurance Company Wins $3 Million Judgment Against Broe Rehabilitation - December 29, 2007
FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich.––(BUSINESS WIRE)––Aug. 21, 2006––Allstate Insurance Company has been awarded a jury verdict of $3 million against Broe Rehabilitation Services, Inc., a Farmington Hills, Mich.–based rehabilitation facility, and the owners, Timothy and Eleanor Broe. The Oakland County jury found in favor of Allstate and against Broe regarding payment by mistake of fact, insurance fraud, breach of contract and unjust enrichment.

Bell Pleads Guilty to Felony Medicaid Fraud
Company Received More Than $4,00 - December 29, 2007
BALTIMORE, MD (September 20, 2007) – Maryland Attorney General Douglas F. Gansler announced today that Guy Anthony Bell, 44, of the 2700 block of Tallow Tree Road in Woodstock, pled guilty in the Circuit Court for Baltimore City to two counts of felony Medicaid Fraud for his role in billing the Medicaid program for more than $4,000,000 for services that were never performed. In all, Mr. Bell knowingly directed his employees to submit over 20,000 false statements to the Medicaid Program. As a result of the plea agreement, Bell will receive a jail sentence of between 24 and 30 months and will be required to make restitution payments. Sentencing is set for November 15, 2007.

Stokes sentenced to less than maximum - December 29, 2007
GRAND RAPIDS –– Dr. Robert Stokes must serve 10.5 years in prison as well as three years supervised release for health care fraud, a federal judge ruled about 7 p.m. tonight.

Hammond health firm to settle in billing allegation - December 29, 2007
A Hammond health–care firm will pay $750,000 to settle allegations of filing improper Medicare claims. United Medical Services provided outpatient physical therapy services to Medicare beneficiaries at a clinic owned by John E. Mills.

Doctor Indicted in Verizon Billing Scam - December 29, 2007
NEW YORK – A physician whose wife vanished and was later found dead in the East River was arraigned Thursday on charges of running a "medical mill" that cheated the Verizon Communications Inc. health plan by fraudulent billing.

Boston Area Medical Providers Named In Multimillion Dollar Healthcare Fraud Sche - December 29, 2007
BOSTON––(BUSINESS WIRE)––November 6, 2007––Owners and employees of Boston Regional Physical Therapy, Inc., and its sister corporation, Central Metropolitan Billing Services, Inc., have been named as defendants in a multi–million dollar lawsuit before the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts; recoveries in the lawsuit could top $5 million. This lawsuit is the culmination of an eighteen–month investigation spearheaded by the Special Investigations Unit of Metropolitan Property and Casualty Insurance Company (MetLife Auto & Home ®). In recent years, MetLife Auto & Home has been one of the most active insurance companies in the Commonwealth in the fight against insurance fraud.

Businessman gets 15 years in jail for Medicare fraud
Defendant is accused of - December 29, 2007
A Houston man was sentenced to 15 years in prison Wednesday for stealing more than $900,000 from the Medicare program.

Man Convicted for Automobile Insurance Fraud, Reports U.S. Attorney - December 29, 2007
BOSTON, Dec. 15 /PRNewswire/ –– A federal trial jury today convicted a Shrewsbury man of mail fraud, health care fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering, in connection with false billings to automobile insurance companies for medical tests.

Health care fraud charged - December 28, 2007
Three men who operated two physical therapy centers on Long Island were arrested yesterday by FBI agents on charges of defrauding dozens of insurance companies and the federal Medicare program out of $2.5 million, according to officials.

1st arrest made in Medicare fraud case - December 28, 2007
Federal agents on Wednesday brought the first criminal charge in what they say is a series of complex, multimillion–dollar schemes across Metro Detroit to bilk Medicare through fraudulent billing.

Clinic owner admits Medicare fraud - December 28, 2007
TRENTON – The owner of two physical therapy clinics, including one in Cherry Hill, admitted defrauding Medicare of about $3.8 million, U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Christie announced.

Houston Man Investigated By Medicaid Fraud Control Unit Receives 15 Years In Pri - December 28, 2007
December 6, 2007 –– HOUSTON – A Houston durable medical equipment provider was sentenced to 15 years in state prison Wednesday for stealing more than $900,000 from the Medicare program. Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigated the case, along with the FBI and Office of Inspector General of the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC–OIG). The Harris County District Attorney’s Office handled the prosecution.

Chiropractor charged with Medicaid fraud - December 28, 2007
HARRISBURG — The state Attorney General's Office charged a Bartonsville chiropractor with money–laundering and medication fraud Thursday as part of an ongoing investigation into illegal pain killer prescriptions in Luzerne County.

Chiropractor, Clinic Owner and Doctor Sentenced for Health Care Fraud Reports U. - December 28, 2007
BOSTON, Jan. 11 /PRNewswire/ –– Three men from Gloucester, Newton and Marblehead were sentenced late yesterday in federal court on charges of conspiracy to commit mail fraud, wire fraud, health care fraud, and money laundering.

Federal grand jury indicts physician, chiropractor - December 28, 2007
A Savannah physician and a chiropractor have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Savannah on charges of conspiring to defraud Medicare and Medicaid.

Bakersfield clinic operator charged with insurance fraud - December 28, 2007
BAKERSFIELD – Three members of a Bakersfield family have been charged with insurance fraud, according to the state insurance commissioner's office.

Newport News chiropractor charged with health care fraud
The U.S. attorney's - December 28, 2007
NEWPORT NEWS — – The U.S. attorney's office has charged a Newport News chiropractor with health care fraud, saying he intentionally billed health management companies for services he never performed.

Physical therapist pleads to fraud scam
His seven-month scheme stole more th - December 28, 2007
A physical therapist has admitted scheming with his wife, a Wayne County doctor and the doctor's wife to steal more than $700,000 in government health–care reimbursements over a seven–month period.

Medsphere’s OpenVista EHR Goes Live at State Hospital in West Virginia First Sit - December 27, 2007
ALISO VIEJO, Calif.––(BUSINESS WIRE)––Medsphere Systems Corporation today announced the successful deployment of its OpenVista® electronic health record (EHR) platform at William R. Sharpe Jr. Hospital, the first of seven state–operated hospitals in West Virginia that will be equipped with the system under a contract signed last year. More than 280 physicians, nurses, pharmacists, dietitians and other staff at Sharpe Hospital, a 150–bed acute care psychiatric facility in the city of Weston, are now using OpenVista to record and retrieve patient information electronically.

JUSTICE RECOVERS RECORD $1.6 BILLION IN FRAUD PAYMENTS - HIGHEST EVER FOR ONE YE - December 25, 2007
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The United States collected a record $1.6 billion in civil fraud recoveries during the past fiscal year, Assistant Attorney General Robert D. McCallum, Jr. of the Justice Department's Civil Division announced today.

Electronic Medical Billing Software and Service Compliance in Physical Therapy O - December 15, 2007
According to BillingWiki, thirteen articles and news items were published on the topic of medical billing fraud, during May of 2006. An environment of high volume of patient encounters creates thousands of possibilities to deviate from normal distribution of services and trigger an audit. Real time analysis requires powerful technology infrastructure and competent legal coverage. Such infrastructure must handle all compliance aspects together, which necessitates modern Vericle–type integrative approach, combining billing, monitoring, and medical record management components in a single and comprehensive system.

Businessman gets 15 years in jail for Medicare fraud - December 09, 2007
Defendant is accused of stealing around $900,000. Testimony in state District Judge Devon Anderson's court also showed that Onwuegbusi overbilled Medicaid for physical therapy services, some that were never provided.

Bakersfield clinic operator charged with insurance fraud - December 03, 2007
Three members of a Bakersfield family have been charged with insurance fraud, according to the state insurance commissioner's office.

Newport News chiropractor charged with health care fraud - December 03, 2007
The U.S. attorney's office has charged a Newport News chiropractor with health care fraud, saying he intentionally billed health management companies for services he never performed.

Monroe county chiropractor arrested on money laundering and Medicaid fraud charg - November 23, 2007
A Monroe County Chiropractor was arrested Thursday on money laundering and Medicaid fraud charges in connection with an ongoing investigation into the illegal prescription of painkillers in the Wilkes–Barre area, Attorney General Tom Corbett said Thursday.

Former physical therapist admits fraud - November 23, 2007
A former Richmond Hill physical therapist pleaded guilty Monday in federal court to scheming to commit health care fraud.

Doctor indicted in Verizon billing scam - November 23, 2007
A physician whose wife vanished and was later found dead in the East River was arraigned Thursday on charges of running a "medical mill" that cheated the Verizon Communications Inc. health plan by fraudulent billing.

Physical Therapist Charged with Medicaid Fraud - November 23, 2007
A Newington physical therapist was arrested today and charged with billing the state's Medicaid program for services he never provided to residents of a Newington group home.