Next Bio-Research Services, doing business as Next Molecular Analytics, has agreed to pay at least $758,000 to settle allegations it paid illegal kickbacks to physicians and marketers, according to a Dec. 4 Department of Justice news release.
What happened?
- The Chester, Va.-based laboratory allegedly disguised payments as consulting or medical director fees to induce physicians in Texas and Arkansas to refer testing services.
- It also allegedly paid independent contractor marketers commissions based on the volume and value of referrals, then billed Medicare, Medicaid and TriCAre for the tests despite knowing of the kickbacks.
- The settlement resolves allegations brought under the False Claims Act by whistleblowers Sunil Wadhwa and Ken Newton. The relators will receive $113,700 from the settlement.
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.