San Francisco Medical Fraud Lawyer

What Do I Do If I’m a Victim of Medicare Fraud?

As a Medicare fraud lawyer in San Francisco, CA can tell you, the Medicare program is often used to target innocent and unsuspecting elderly victims. People who rely on the federal program are elderly individuals 65 years old and older who need health insurance for their medical treatments. Unfortunately, some medical providers commit violations and engage in fraudulent activity, which impact Medicare recipients. If you have been a victim of fraud, a San Francisco, CA-based Medicare fraud lawyer like one from Morales Law Firm can work with you to pursue the medical provider responsible so that you can recover your losses. 

What counts as Medicare fraud?

The federal government oversees the Medicare program, and there are certain practices that medical providers must abide by. Providers commit fraud if their actions are not compliant with the rules and regulations set in place by the federal government. Medicare fraud covers a wide range of practices, such as when providers inflate their profits by improperly billing patients or conducting illegal referrals. If you are not sure if your case counts as Medicare fraud, you can ask a lawyer and they will assess your case. 

What happens during a fraud audit? 

The Centers For Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is the department that handles audits for suspected cases of Medicare fraud. Medical providers who are flagged for fraud must go through a lengthy audit process. The CMS first delivers a notice to the medical provider that they have been chosen for an audit. The provider will be asked to submit information to auditors, who will look for any signs that they have been engaging in fraudulent activity. If the provider is found to have not been compliant, the CMS will determine which actions should be taken, which can range from fines to termination. 

What steps should I take if I’m a fraud victim? 

Many elderly individuals don’t realize they have been victims of Medicare fraud until it’s too late. Fortunately, if you have been a victim of fraud there are actions you can take to further protect yourself and recover your losses. Report the incident right away by calling the dedicated hotline and have your information ready, such as your Medicare number and provider name. 

Is it worth hiring a lawyer? 

Many fraud victims may be wondering if it is worth the hassle of hiring a lawyer. Since Medicare fraud cases involve both the healthcare system and federal government, you will want to work with a lawyer who is knowledgeable about both. These cases are often highly complex and are not easy to win. You have a better chance of obtaining monetary compensation if you have a lawyer at your side to tirelessly fight for you. 

Fraud cases are not easy to deal with, and for elderly victims they may need additional guidance to navigate the complexities of healthcare laws. If you have been a victim of Medicare fraud, reach out to a San Francisco, CA based Medicare fraud lawyer right away so that you can receive the legal assistance you need.