Investigating Healthcare Fraud: Its Scope, Applicable Laws, and Regulations

Healthcare costs are not only an enormous strain on the U.S. economy but are expected to increase in the foreseeable future. Not surprisingly, clever fraudsters view the healthcare industry as a lucrative and attractive hotspot for illegal activity. Although federal and state governments have increased their funding and prosecution efforts relating to healthcare fraud, this fraud continues to be a major threat to the U.S. economy and every patient and consumer. The impact of healthcare fraud is substantial and far-reaching.

Healthcare fraud in the U.S. affects not only the government, but also insurance companies, patients, healthcare providers, and consumers. This Article examines the types of healthcare fraud and the major federal laws used to combat this type of fraud.