As the presidential campaign demonstrates, rising Medicaid costs are a significant concern, particularly in light of our growing deficit. While there are many possible political solutions, every day Americans can play a crucial role in reducing Medicaid costs by blowing the whistle when they see dentists performing unnecessary procedures at taxpayer expense. Called a “Qui Tam” action, a private citizen can sue on behalf of the United States Government against medical organizations, including dentists, who commit fraud against the government.
The rewards for blowing the whistle on fraud can be substantial. Anyone who has been under the dentists drill knows it is an unpleasant experience, and it might sound surprising that a dentist could convince a patient to undergo an unnecessary procedure. But that is exactly what appears to be happening at many of the nation’s largest dental chains. The Center for Public Integrity recently investigated two of the larger corporate chains, and uncovered proof that the companies were pressuring dentists to hit revenue targets, which in turn encourages dentists to recommend unnecessary procedures.
For example, one chain routinely performed unnecessary x-rays, and installed crowns rather than simple fillings. Another even pulled teeth that could have stayed, and installed dentures that were not needed. If you work at a dentist’s office and have seen these or other unnecessary procedures performed, please contact us to discuss your legal options.