New Medical Pilot Program May Prevent Medical Kickbacks
January 10, 2018
Medical practitioners and health care professionals that conduct business to receive propositions and payment in the form of kickbacks are violating anti-kickback laws in place at federal, state, and local levels. While partnerships with pharmaceutical companies are one of the biggest violators in compliance with physicians and hospitals, the Department of Health and Human Services works to conduct research to prevent the violation of anti-kickback statutes. The Healthcare and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG) recently approved a medication management pilot to help combat medical kickbacks through technology that allows real-time sharing of data on patient progress and needs.
The Program
The medication pilot program is currently focusing on discharge diagnoses in the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program. Through a new form of technology, pharmacists will be given access to real-time patient data and records to coordinate necessary follow-up care and medications following the discharge of patients who experienced pneumonia, congestive heart failure, heart attack, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or joint replacements.
Although pharmaceutical companies could use patient information to receive kickbacks and promote medications, several safeguards are in place during the pilot to test real-time data sharing as a form of cutting back on unnecessary medical costs and services. Although pharmacists are being given access to patient records and medications, pharmaceutical companies are not receiving patient drug or treatment information. In its current state, the pilot program is designed to improve the quality of health care and reduce unnecessary re-admissions and treatment.
Potential Concerns
Depending on the information given, the technology used to manage medication and treatment may result in kickbacks if introduced to the public. Manufacturers may sponsor the technology or market different drugs for treatment, resulting in bribery and fraud. However, the intended plan is to reduce patient cost and promote well-being by ensuring that patients receive the most appropriate and cost-effective treatment available. By doing so, unnecessary treatments and medications may be avoided, allowing health care professionals to avoid potential legal action due to anti-kickback statutes and regulations.
Philadelphia Anti-Kickback Lawyers at Sidney L. Gold & Associates, P.C. Fight for the Rights of Health Care Professionals
Anti-kickback laws ensure that health care professionals are keeping the best interest of the patient in mind when suggesting treatment and medication for health-related issues. It is easy for physicians to accept bribes without realizing that they violate anti-kickback laws. If you or someone you know is facing legal action, or is unsure about the statutes in place, do not hesitate to speak with an experienced Philadelphia anti-kickback lawyer at Sidney L. Gold & Associates, P.C. by contacting us online, or by calling 215-569-1999. With an office conveniently located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, we serve health care professionals throughout the surrounding areas.
