Medicare and Medicaid fraud, and other healthcare fraud, totaled over $2 Billion dollars in 2017.   Thanks to the North Carolina False Claims Act and the federal False Claims Act, whistleblowers can report fraud without having to suffer negative consequences.

The North Carolina False Claims Act and the federal False Claims Act both reward a whistleblower for reporting fraud by allowing a whistleblower to receive a percentage of any recovery. Without this monetary incentive, most fraud goes unreported.  Those knowledgeable of the fraud are usually inside employees, but are often afraid or intimidated to report fraud against their employer.

Fortunately, both the NC FCA and the federal FCA protect whistleblowers from workplace retaliation by an employer.  An employee who is a victim of workplace retaliation is entitled to two (2) times back pay, interest, special monetary damages, and attorney’s fees. Retaliation can include: loss of pay, firing, leave of absence, demotion, forced transfer of job, reduction of hours, harassment, threats, or other retaliation.

Healthcare fraud is the leader among those industries that defraud federal and state governments.  The most common healthcare fraud is against Medicare and Medicaid programs.

Whistleblowers who report Medicare and Medicaid fraud may receive up to 25 percent of any recovery, if the government intervenes in the claim.  An experienced whistleblower lawyer will know how to file a lawsuit under seal (in secret), and help ensure that the whistleblower is the original source of the fraud.   It is important to choose a lawyer that has experience with the NC and federal False Claims Act.

If you are considering reporting healthcare fraud, Medicare fraud, Medicaid fraud, or other fraud against the government, please visit Miller Law Group for more information.  Our FAQ (frequently asked questions) is helpful when deciding on whether to become a whistleblower.

For a free consultation contact us, or call at 919-348-4361.