New HHS program targets Medicare fraud

HHS has launched a new pilot program hoping to catch dishonest medical equipment suppliers in the Los Angeles area and South Florida. If the pilot is successful, CMS plans to role out the program across the United States. The two-year effort, designed to ferret out Medicare fraud, will search for falsified bills and overcharges from suppliers of prosthetics, orthotics, diabetic supplies and DME.

CMS has targeted the two regions not only because they're rich with equipment suppliers, but also because they have a long history of Medicare fraud. Known scams include setting up fake companies who bill Medicare for non-existent services and products that never get delivered to anyone. Nationally, Medicare estimates such fraudsters are stealing several billion dollars a year.

To find out more about the program:
- read this Los Angeles Times article

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