FTC warns: Crackdown coming on some self-referrals

Article Abstract:

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is investigating physicians for self-referral, that is, referring patients to ancillary facilities in which the doctor owns a stake but does not practice. FTC representatives have expressed concern about possible overuse of such services. The FTC is looking for violations of the Sherman Antitrust Law in the operation of physician joint ventures and other investments by doctors in services to which they refer patients.

Admin. of general economic programs, Medical referral

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Physicians at risk in fraud dragnet

Article Abstract:

Hundreds of physicians could face possible criminal prosecution as part of a federal investigation of Caremark International Inc. The home care company pleaded guilty to federal kickback and fraud charges and agreed to cooperate with government authorities in continuing investigations of individuals. Physicians who accepted payments in return for referrals of Medicaid and Medicare patients to Caremark's service providers could face federal charges.

Medicaid, Administration of Public Health Programs, Health Care Services, Cases, Health care industry, Medical care, Medicaid fraud, Caremark International Inc.

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Practice mergers present new risks; market-driven linkage of physician groups draws antitrust scrutiny

Article Abstract:

The Dept of Justice's antitrust division plans to examine mergers of groups of physicians to determine whether they stifle competition. However, many physicians contend that insurers and managed-care companies pose a greater threat of dominating the market. Also, the Federal Trade Commission is investigating possible collusion by vertically integrated hospitals that have purchased physicians' practices.

Hospitals, Regulation, Licensing, and Inspection of Miscellaneous Commercial Sectors, Antitrust Law, Interpretation and construction, Mergers, acquisitions and divestments, United States. Department of Justice. Antitrust Division, Group medical practice

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