Missouri Physician Charged With Healthcare Fraud

Devendra K. Varma, MD, of Poplar Bluff, Mo., was charged with a criminal charge that is "basically" healthcare fraud, according to a report in the Southeast Missourian.

The complaint against Dr. Varma alleges that the physician attempted to execute a "scheme to defraud a health care program, in connection with the delivery of or payment of healthcare benefits, items and services," according to the report.

According to the allegations, Dr. Varma, the only physician at Haven Hills Medical Clinic in Poplar Bluff, overprescribed controlled substances — butalbital, codeine and hydrocodone — to Medicare and Medicaid patients through the on-site pharmacy, Central Pharmacy. Dr. Varma was being investigated amid allegations that he was providing controlled substances to "known drug addicts or dealers," according to the report.  

Dr. Varma is also accused of billing Medicare and Medicaid for laboratory services that were unnecessary or not performed.

Read the Missourian's report on the Poplar Bluff physician's healthcare fraud accusations.

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