Medicare FraudMedicare fraud affects every American. In recent years, Medicare fraud schemes have grown bolder and more elaborate, resulting in hundreds of millions of dollars in false billings to Medicare. These actions result in misuse of taxpayer dollars and a misdirection of funds intended to help Medicare beneficiaries. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is taking steps to eliminate this type of fraud by joining forces with the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate fraudulent Medicare suppliers. The work of the multi-agency team of federal, state and local investigators is generating results. During a three month period, this targeted criminal, civil and administrative effort against individuals and health care companies that fraudulently bill the Medicare program yielded 56 arrests and stopped companies who collectively billed more than $258 million to Medicare. It is the first step in a protracted effort to eliminate the potential for fraud. HHS has also announced several demonstration projects focused on preventing deceptive companies from operating in South Florida, Southern California and the Houston area. By attacking fraud vigorously wherever it exists, we all stand to benefit. You can help stop fraud. If you see suspicious activity by someone claiming to be a Medicare supplier or vendor, call 1-800-HHS-TIPS (1-800-447-8477). English and Spanish speaking operators are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Eastern Time. You may also report fraud by sending an email to HHSTips@oig.hhs.gov. HHS-TIPS is operated by the HHS Office of the Inspector General, an independent entity within the Department of Health and Human Services tasked with investigating waste, fraud and abuse allegations in connection with Medicare and Medicaid programs and other HHS programs. News Releases Speeches Testimony July 17, 2007
Michael O. Leavitt, Former Secretary, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Subject: Medicare Health Care Fraud & Abuse Efforts
Before: Committee on the Budget, United States House of Representatives July 17, 2007
Timothy B. Hill Chief, Financial Officer, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
Subject: Medicare Health Care Fraud & Abuse Efforts
Before: Committee on the Budget, United States House of Representatives March 29, 2007
Timothy B. Hill, Chief Financial Officer, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
Subject: Medicare and Medicaid Improper Payments
Before: Federal Financial Management, Government Information and International Security, Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, U.S. Senate
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