Every day in the United States, approximately 10,000 people turn 65. Within this group, the majority hope to receive long-term care within their own home. Instead of going to a nursing home or other long-term care facility, these individuals may look to hire medical professionals to help them remain within their homes.
One option: use of home health care agencies.
Home health care agencies make use of medical professionals to help individuals remain within their private residences. These professionals can include Personal Care Assistants (PCA).
PCAs are in short supply. These care providers often face low wages and increased demands. This combination can result in frustrating situations for those who choose the field as their profession. In one case, the government has accused a PCA of becoming so frustrated with the lack of adequate compensation that she resorted to false charges to help supplement her income.
The government accused the PCA of falsely billing Medicaid. An investigation resulted in evidence the accused was working another unrelated job during the time she claimed to provide services billed to Medicaid. The Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Unit also states the accused had over 200 instances of overlapping claims leading to almost $10,000 in fraudulent payments. If substantiated, these allegations could lead to criminal health care fraud charges. The charges can come with a steep financial penalty and potential imprisonment.
Due to the serious penalties that come with a conviction of this nature, anyone that faces similar allegations or finds themselves the subject of an investigation is wise to take the matter seriously. An attorney experienced in home health care law matters can review the situation and advocate for your interests, better ensuring your rights are protected.
