GARDEN GROVE, CA — An Orange County pharmacist will pay nearly $4 million to settle allegations that she fraudulently billed Medicare for medications that were never dispensed, according to authorites.
Gisele Nguyen, of Huntington Beach, has agreed to pay $3.93 million to resolve the allegations, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.
For at least five years, beginning in 2014, Nguyen, doing business as Natico Pharmacy in Garden Grove, fraudulently submitted claims to Part D of the Medicare Program for prescriptions that were never dispensed to beneficiaries, authorities said. Inventory records showed the pharmacy did not buy enough of the medications to fill all the prescriptions billed to Medicare, according to authorities.
“Federal health care programs provide critical health care services to millions of Americans,” Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division, said in a news release. “We will hold accountable those who seek to defraud these programs, including by billing for goods or services that they did not provide.”
Tips and complaints about potential fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at 800-447-8477.
Source: Orange County Pharmacist To Pay $4M Settlement In Medicare Fraud Case / Patch
Dear TDMR,
I recently came across your article titled “Orange County Pharmacist to Pay $4M Settlement in Medicare Fraud Case,” and I wanted to express my appreciation for shedding light on this important matter. Medicare fraud is a serious issue that undermines the integrity of the healthcare system, and it is crucial to address such cases and hold individuals accountable for their actions.
The news of an Orange County pharmacist being involved in Medicare fraud and subsequently agreeing to pay a $4 million settlement is concerning. Medicare fraud not only defrauds the government but also compromises the quality of care received by patients who rely on these programs for essential healthcare services. It is disheartening to hear of any fraudulent activity that exploits the trust placed in healthcare professionals.
I commend the efforts of law enforcement agencies, regulatory bodies, and legal professionals who worked diligently to uncover and address this case. Their commitment to investigating and prosecuting instances of fraud is essential for protecting the integrity of Medicare and ensuring that taxpayer funds are used appropriately to provide quality healthcare services to those in need.
Articles like yours play a vital role in raising awareness about Medicare fraud and the actions being taken to combat it. By informing the public about such cases, you contribute to fostering transparency and accountability within the healthcare industry. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and collaboration in safeguarding healthcare programs.
I encourage continued efforts to prevent and combat Medicare fraud, as it is an ongoing battle that requires the collective commitment of healthcare professionals, regulatory agencies, and the public. By working together, we can protect the integrity of our healthcare system and ensure that resources are allocated to those who truly need them.
Thank you for bringing attention to this important issue and for your commitment to informing the public about healthcare-related matters.