A Houston pain management physician agreed to pay $390,082 to settle allegations that he submitted false Medicare claims for surgical implantation of neurostimulator electrodes, the Justice Department said in a June 3 release.
What happened?
- Between Dec. 7, 2021, and Dec. 14, 2022, Benjamin Tiongson, MD, allegedly billed Medicare for surgical implantation procedures that were never performed.
- Instead, patients reportedly received electro-acupuncture devices that involved inserting monofilament wires just a few millimeters into the ear, with the device taped behind the ear using adhesive.
- All procedures took place in Dr. Tiongson’s clinic, not a hospital or ASC and no incision was made.
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.