The complaint alleges that from 2010 to 2021, Dr. Rentrop and the practice entered into office space rental agreements, often in excess of fair market value, with primary care and other physicians in order to induce these physicians to refer patients to Gramercy-contracted cardiologists who saw patients at the rented office space, according to a Sept. 18 press release from the Justice Department.
These physicians ordered diagnostic tests performed at Gramercy and were allegedly paid a flat fee for each referral. Under the settlement agreement, Dr. Rentrop and the practice will pay over $4.5 million to the federal government, and nearly $2 million to the state of New York.
In addition, Dr. Rentrop has agreed to relinquish ownership of the Gramercy practice by the end of the calendar year and will pay a portion of the proceeds of any sale of the practice to the United States. He is also barred from working for any entity that bills federal healthcare programs.
At the Becker's 23rd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference, taking place June 11-13 in Chicago, spine surgeons, orthopedic leaders and ASC executives will come together to explore minimally invasive techniques, ASC growth strategies and innovations shaping the future of outpatient spine care. Apply for complimentary registration now.
