Nearly 200 individuals have faced charges in a broad nationwide initiative targeting healthcare fraud schemes worth over $2.7 billion, according to the United States Department of Justice.

Attorney General's Announcement

On Thursday, Attorney General Merrick Garland revealed charges against healthcare professionals, including doctors and nurse practitioners, across various states. The allegations included a $900 million fraudulent scheme in Arizona that specifically targeted terminally ill patients.

“It does not matter if you are a trafficker in a drug cartel or a corporate executive or a medical professional employed by a healthcare company. If you profit from the unlawful distribution of controlled substances, you will be held accountable,” Garland stated.

Arizona Case Details

In the Arizona case, two wound care company owners are accused of accepting kickbacks exceeding $330 million to fraudulently bill Medicare for amniotic wound dressings. These dressings were inappropriately applied to elderly patients, including those under hospice care, leading to some patients' deaths.

Moreover, prosecutors disclosed that less than 500 patients received over $900 million in Medicare claims for wound dressings in less than two years, emphasizing the extent of the fraudulent practices.

Additionally, the luxury lifestyle allegedly maintained by the accused individuals, Alexandra Gehrke and Jeffrey King, further substantiates the seriousness of the scheme.

Charges and Asset Seizures

A total of 193 individuals faced charges in various cases brought forward during the healthcare fraud sweep. Authorities seized over $230 million in assets, including cash and luxury vehicles. The Justice Department's periodic crackdowns aim to deter further fraudulent activities within the healthcare industry.

Other Cases

Other cases highlighted include Medicaid billing inaccuracies in Arizona and a scheme in Florida involving the distribution of misbranded HIV medications, leading to harmful consequences for patients.