An Atlanta-based urology practice and its physician owner have agreed to pay $14 million to resolve False Claims Act allegations of billing federal healthcare programs for medically unnecessary and unperformed procedures, the Justice Department said in an April 2 news release.
Jitesh Patel, MD, and Advanced Urology allegedly performed unnecessary sacral nerve stimulator implants, cystoscopies and ultrasounds, and billed for a urethral procedure that was never performed while conducting a less complex alternative.
The investigation was initiated following whistleblower complaints filed by a former employee and a former Advanced Urology physician, who will collectively receive $2.94 million from the settlement. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
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