Medicare Fraud Teams Target Home Health Care Agencies throughout the US

July 28, 2015 by Begelman and Orlow

Medicare Fraud Strike Force teams, made up of FBI, Department of Health & Human Services and Department of Justice officials, along with local police, uncovered Medicare fraud schemes totaling $712 million in June. Law enforcement arrested and charged over 240 doctors, nurses and other licensed healthcare professionals for allegedly participating in the scheme in 17… More

What is the False Claims Act & Why You Should Care

July 20, 2015 by Begelman and Orlow

When someone tries to defraud the government, it hurts all taxpayers. Anyone who has information that proves wrongdoing against the US government is permitted to bring a lawsuit under the False Claims Act (also called qui tam). Under 31 U.S.C. Sections 3729 through 3733, the False Claims Act includes several types of violations including: presenting… More

4 Reasons Why Employee Status May Be Better than Being Labeled a Consultant

July 14, 2015 by Begelman and Orlow

Consultants have plenty of freedom; they usually aren’t tied to a desk, nor do they necessarily work standard business hours. No doubt, being a freelancer or contracted consultant has myriad advantages. Employers prefer independent contractors because they represent a major cost savings over employees. However, depending on your person situation, there are many reasons why… More

Thinking About Filing a Whistleblower Lawsuit? Here’s What Not To Do

July 7, 2015 by Begelman and Orlow

If you believe you have uncovered a scam or a fraudulent scheme to bilk the US government, you may very well have a financially valuable whistleblower case on your hands. A lot of people will tell you what to do next. Here is what not to do: Don’t discuss your findings with other co-workers to… More

Thinking About Blowing the Whistle? No Time Like the Present

July 1, 2015 by Begelman and Orlow

The U.S. False Claims Act has a “first to file” rule for all whistleblower cases. This is exactly what it sounds like; the first person to come forward with information is the person eligible to receive compensation should the case go forward. If you have information you believe would uncover fraudulent behavior or an effort… More