News From Around the Web
> Medicare beneficiaries paid nearly half the costs for outpatient services at critical access hospitals, an Office of Inspector General study found. For 10 often-rendered services at critical access hospitals, beneficiaries paid up to six times the amount in coinsurance that they would have owed for identical services at acute-care hospitals. Abstract
> Usman Butt, a Detroit home healthcare agency owner, pleaded guilty for his role in a $22 million Medicare fraud conspiracy, the Department of Justice announced. Butt admitted conspiring with others to bill for services that were not performed, not medical necessary and procured through kickback payments. Announcement
> Companies considering joint ventures should ask tough questions about the viability of potential partners' compliance programs to avoid liability for fraud or other crimes partners may commit, Inside Counsel advised. Article
Healthcare News
> Amid growing fears over the spread of the Ebola virus in the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will rethink its recommended protocol that healthcare professionals should follow to treat the disease. Article
> In the wake of the Veterans Affairs scandal involving cover ups over treatment delays and the subsequent resignation of VA Secretary Eric Shinseki, VA leaders in several states received substantial bonuses despite the systemic problems. Article
And finally… Cop impersonator busted after approaching police. Article