If you think allegations of healthcare fraud are rare, think again. It’s estimated that healthcare fraud costs the U.S. $68 billion every year, which means a significant number of people are committing this offense. Of course, the number of people facing accusations of healthcare fraud is even higher than the number of physicians, healthcare practitioners, insurers, and patients being accused of this crime.
With so many people facing allegations of fraud, healthcare professionals need to have a strategy in place in order to deal with any accusations made against them. If you’ve been accused of healthcare fraud, take a look at some of the steps you should be taking:
1. Seek Legal Advice
First and foremost, you need to obtain legal advice. This is one of the most important things you can do after facing any criminal allegation, so don’t hesitate to find a lawyer who can help you. By contacting reputable healthcare fraud attorneys, such as Healthcare Fraud Group, you can get the specialist advice you need. Additionally, a healthcare defense lawyer can advise you on what action to take next in relation to your specific situation.
2. Calm Down
Finding out that you’re being accused of fraud is a devastating experience. If you’ve been told that you’re under investigation or that someone has made an allegation against you, you’re going to feel a range of emotions. This is completely understandable but making decisions when you’re angry, upset or fearful won’t be beneficial. Instead, take the time you need to calm down and get your head around the situation. Once you’ve done this, you’ll be able to respond in an appropriate and constructive manner.
3. Understand the Allegations
When you first discover that you’re suspected of committing healthcare fraud, it can be hard to take anything else in. In fact, you might struggle to remember the details of the allegations because you’re in shock. In the hours or days following the discovery, however, you’ll want to find out as much as you can about what you’re being accused of. There are many different types of healthcare fraud, so getting the details of the allegations can help you to understand what’s going on and mount a successful defense.
4. Get Support
When healthcare practitioners are accused of committing fraud, they typically don’t disclose it to their peers. Understandably, you may not want to harm your professional reputation by telling other people in the industry that you’ve been accused of healthcare fraud. However, it is important to find support from other sources. Disclosing the information to a trusted friend or family member may give you the opportunity to talk freely about what’s happening and access the emotional help you need at a difficult time.
Defending Yourself Against Allegations of Healthcare Fraud
When you’ve been accused of healthcare fraud, it’s tempting to start mounting your own defense straight away. However, it’s essential that you listen to your attorney and follow their advice. By doing so, you can allow their experience and expertise to work in your favor. While it can be frustrating to hold back when you’re facing allegations of fraud, a calm and measured approach is generally the best way forward.
