Fraud and the OIG

Take Care of Your Physician 

Today, I saw this article!  The physician in this article will spend 9 years in prison for fraud! Greed is a quality that can destroy any business, achievement, or person.

Most of my students are striving to become certified coders.  I would urge you to never do anything you know is wrong to increase the wealth of another person or yourself.  Even if you receive some type of financial reward,  you will always be concerned about someone discovering your crime.   It's just not worth it!

Maintain your high standard of knowledge and morals. Do the right thing even when it is difficult! Do not look for shortcuts that will lead you into long term problems! Follow the rules! Take care of yourself and your physician. Here are 6 tips to assist you:

• Stay educated.  Go to webinars and the free training sessions provided by Medicare, Medicaid, and other commercial payers. 
• Share what you learn with the physician and the staff. 
• Examine yourself.  Make sure that you are personally following the rules. 
• If you are not sure, humble yourself and ask a knowledgeable person. 
• Never assume.  If it is not documented, it is not done! 
• Sign up for alerts from the OIG.  Go to:  http://oig.hhs.gov/