New Jersey physician sentenced, to pay $5M+ for fraud scheme

A physician in Margate, N.J., was sentenced to 15 months in prison and must pay more than $5 million for his role in a scheme to defraud payers by submitting claims for medically unnecessary prescriptions. 

Advertisement

Brian Sokalsky, MD, authorized prescriptions for former pharmaceutical sales representative Matthew Tedesco in June 2017. In exchange for the authorization, Mr. Tedesco referred approximately 30 patients to Dr. Sokalsky’s new medical practices, according to an Oct. 30 news release from the Justice Department. 

Dr. Sokalsky authorized medically unnecessary medications, such as libido creams for young women, including excessive quantities with the maximum number of refills.  He also authorized prescriptions for the medications for existing patients of his practice to financially benefit Mr. Tedesco and encourage him to refer more patients to his new practice.

Dr. Sokalsky pleaded guilty for his role in the scheme in March 2023. In addition to the prison term, he was sentenced to three years of supervised release and ordered restitution of $5.13 million.

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.

Register to Attend Webinar

Is ambulatory care healthcare’s big margin engine? 5 leaders weigh in

Wednesday, July 29
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM CDT

Presenters: Joe Ganley, athenahealthJeffrey Flynn, CASC, Gramercy Surgery CenterBryan Tsao, Access Center, Loma Linda University HealthJason Zepeda, Northridge Hospital Medical Center, CommonSpirit HealthGreg DeConciliis, PA-C, CASC, Boston Out­Patient Surgical Suites

Advertisement

Next Up in ASC News

Advertisement

Comments are closed.