Laurel-Based Physicians Group and Neurologist Agree to Pay Almost One Million Dollars to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations

Jefferson Medical Associates, a now dissolved, multi-specialty medical practice group in Laurel, and Dr. Aremmia Tanious, have agreed to pay the United States $817,635.06 to resolve claims under the False Claims Act arising from Medicare overpayments to Jefferson Medical Associates and Dr. Tanious, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst. This settlement resolves allegations that from January 1, 2012, through December 31, 2014, Jefferson Medical Associates and Dr. Tanious violated the False Claims Act by failing to return overpayments they received from Medicare on claims. In addition, from February 1, 2013, through June 30, 2017, it was alleged that Jefferson Medical Associates and Dr. Tanious billed Medicare using multiple medical codes when the medical documentation did not support the use of such billing practices.

During the course of the government’s investigation, Jefferson Medical Associates and Dr. Tanious provided assistance through voluntary disclosures to the U.S. Attorney’s Office after they discovered through audits of patient files and claims data that Medicare had been overbilled for certain services.

The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of civil liability.

About the Author

Reed Tinsley CPA

This article is written by Reed Tinsley, a Houston, TX-based CPA with over 30 years of experience advising physicians and medical practices across Texas and the United States. Reed holds certifications as a Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA), Certified Healthcare Business Consultant (CHBC), and Certified Financial Planner (CFP), specializing exclusively in the healthcare sector. He is a published author, nationally recognized speaker, and trusted advisor to physicians on accounting & tax, practice management, and financial planning. Schedule a Free Consultation.