Settlement over a False Claims Act Allegations against Rotech Healthcare Inc announced.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/14/2018 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that Rotech Healthcare Inc reached a $9.68 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit filed by a former employee over knowingly submitting false claims for portable oxygen contents to Medicare.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

A settlement has been reached to resolve False Claims Act allegations against Rotech Healthcare Inc.

The allegations arose from a lawsuit that claimed Rotech Healthcare Inc knowingly submitted false claims for portable oxygen contents to Medicare.

According to the government, Rotech admitted to billing portable oxygen contents to Medicare for beneficiaries who did not use or require them. Furthermore, the company admitted to billing Medicare regardless of whether such contents were delivered.

"Many people believe that healthcare fraud is a victimless crime; I assure you it is not," said United States Attorney Joseph D. Brown of the Eastern District of Texas. "Medicare is funded largely by you and me, the American taxpayers, and fraud contributes to runaway health care costs. I commend the whistleblower who had the courage to come forward and who worked with investigators to get to the bottom of this case. Because of her, we were able to recoup millions of dollars improperly paid to Rotech."

Medicare covers the cost of renting certain portable and stationary oxygen equipment as well as the oxygen that is used with that equipment.

Reportedly, between January 2009 and March 2012, Rotech automatically billed Medicare for portable oxygen contents for all Medicare beneficiaries after the 36-month rental period, without verifying that the beneficiaries used or needed portable oxygen, and without obtaining the requisite proof of delivery. Rotech continued this practice despite knowing that it resulted in the submission of claims for portable oxygen contents that were ineligible for reimbursement.

The whistleblower, Janet Hale, a former employee in Rotech's billing department, share of the settlement will be approximately $1.65 million.

Based in Orlando, Florida, Rotech Healthcare Inc is a provider of home respiratory products.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Settlement over a False Claims Act Allegations against Banner Health announced.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/12/2018 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that Banner Health reached a $18 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit filed by a former employee over knowingly submitting false claims to Medicare.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

Banner Health will pay more than $18 million to settle allegations that 12 of its hospitals in Arizona and Colorado knowingly submitted false claims to Medicare by admitting patients who could have been treated on a less costly outpatient basis.

According to the government, from November 1, 2007 through December 31, 2016, Banner Health allegedly billed Medicare for "short-stay, inpatient procedures" performed at the 12 hospitals that should have been billed on a less costly outpatient basis. The government also alleged that Banner Health inflated in the number of hours for which patients received outpatient observation care in their reports to Medicare.

"Taxpayers should not bear the burden of inpatient services that patients do not need," said Acting Assistant Attorney General Chad A. Readler for the Justice Department's Civil Division. "The Department will continue its efforts to stop abuses of the nation's health care resources and to ensure that patients receive the most appropriate care."

Reportedly, Banner Health entered into a corporate integrity agreement with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General that requires the system to retain an independent review organization to evaluate the accuracy of the company's claims for services to federal healthcare program beneficiaries.

The settlement doesn't involve any findings of wrongdoing on Banner's part, said Becky Armendariz, senior director of marketing and public relations for the Phoenix-based health system.

The whistleblower, Cecilia Guardiola, a former Banner employee, share of the settlement will be approximately $3.3 million.

Based in Phoenix, Arizona, Banner Health provides emergency care, hospital care, hospice, lab and pharmacies.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Settlement over a False Claims Act Allegations against Georgia based Orthopaedic and Anesthesia providers announced.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/08/2018 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that Georgia based Orthopaedic and Anesthesia reached a $3.2 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit filed by a former employee over allegations of involvement in a False Claims Act kickback scheme

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

A group of Newnan, Georgia based orthopedic and anesthesia providers agreed to pay the federal government $3.2 million to settle allegations they were involved in a False Claims Act kickback scheme.

According to the government, allegedly Georgia Bone & Joint (GBJ), Southern Bone & Joint a/k/a Summit Orthopaedic Surgery Center (Summit Surgery Center), Southern Crescent Anesthesiology, PC (SCA), Sentry Anesthesia Management, LLC (Sentry), and David LaGuardia (LaGuardia) agreed to pay $3.2 million to settle allegations that LaGuardia, Sentry, and SCA provided a free medical director to Summit Surgery Center in order to induce it to choose to perform more procedures at the surgery center rather than in the GBJ office; and that GBJ and LaGuardia caused the submission of false claims to Medicare for prescription drugs purchased outside of the United States and not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

"Kickbacks should never play a role in medical decision-making," said U.S. Attorney Byung J. "BJay" Pak. "It is critical to our health care system that patients seeking health care know that their providers' recommendations are based on what is in the patient's best interests and not influenced by illegal kickbacks or arrangements."

The whistleblowers, Sharon Kopko, a former Practice Administrator for SBJ, share of the settlement will receive a share of the settlement.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Three Merrill Lynch Insiders Get $83 Million in SEC Whistleblower Awards.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/05/2018 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that three Merrill Lynch Insiders Get $83 Million in SEC Whistleblower Awards.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

Three whistleblowers helped an U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) investigation into Bank of America Corp.'s Merrill Lynch brokerage.

On Monday, the SEC awarded one whistleblower more than $33 million, the largest bounty issued in the seven-year history of the agency's program for rewarding tipsters for tipping off authorities about misconduct at Merrill Lynch. The other two whistleblowers will split $50 million for providing help in the same case. Total the three Merrill Lynch insiders will get more than $83 million from the SEC.

Reportedly, the three whistleblowers provided information that helped the SEC win a $415 million settlement with the bank in 2016 for engaging in complex transactions to reduce the amount of client funds that had to be set aside in reserve accounts.

" These awards demonstrate that whistleblowers can provide the SEC with incredibly significant information that enables us to pursue and remedy serious violations that might otherwise go unnoticed," said Jane Norberg, chief of the SEC's whistleblower office." We hope that these awards encourage others with specific, high-quality information regarding securities laws violations to step forward and report it to the SEC."

Whistleblowers can seek payouts if they voluntarily give the SEC unique information that leads to successful enforcement actions. Compensation can range from 10 percent to 30 percent of the money collected in a case beyond $1 million. The SEC stated it has awarded more than $262 million since issuing its first award in 2012. The previous record for a single payment was $30 million.

Merrill Lynch is the corporate and investment banking division of Bank of America. It provides services in mergers and acquisitions, equity and debt capital markets, lending, trading, risk management, research, and liquidity and payments management.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Settlement over a False Claims Act Allegations against a Tennessee Chiropractor announced.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/30/2018 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that a Tennessee Chiropractor reached a $1.45 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit to resolve False Claims Act Allegations.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

According to the government, a chiropractor operating pain clinics from Lenior City, Tennessee has paid $1.45 million, plus interest, to resolve False Claims Act violations. Under the same settlement, a pain clinic nurse in Cookeville, Tennessee is to pay $32,000 and surrender her DEA registration to settle allegations that she violated the Controlled Substances Act.

The whistleblower share of the settlement will be approximately $246,500.

Reportedly, Matthew Anderson and his management company, PMC LLC, managed four pain clinics in Tennessee, most recently known as; Cookeville Center for Pain Management; Spinal Pain Solutions in Harriman; Preferred Pain Center of Grundy County in Gruetli Laager; and McMinnville Pain Relief Center.

As part of the settlement agreement, Matthew Anderson and PMC resolved claims that from 2011 through 2014, they caused pharmacies to request for Medicare and TennCare payments for painkillers, including opioids, without valid medical purpose. In addition, it resolved allegations about Anderson's too high reimbursements for office visits, and the PMC's claims on Medicare for nurse services in 2011 and 2012 that failed to abide by the Tennessee law.

Under the settlement agreement, the United States will receive $1,040,275, and the State of Tennessee will receive $163,225. In addition, Matthew Anderson and PMC agreed to be excluded from billing federal health care programs for five years. Three of the clinics will also forfeit $53,840, which the United States seized from the clinics' bank accounts.

Also, as part of the settlement agreement, Cindy Scott, a nurse practitioner from Nashville, will pay $32,000 and surrender her DEA registration until October 2021. Furthermore, Cindy Scott is prohibited from prescribing medications until her DEA registration is renewed.

"More Americans are dying because of drugs today than ever before—a trend that is being driven by opioids," said Attorney General Jeff Sessions. "If we're going to end this unprecedented drug crisis, which is claiming the lives of 64,000 Americans each year, doctors must stop overprescribing opioids and law enforcement must aggressively pursue those medical professionals who act in their own financial interests, at the expense of their patients' best interests. Today's settlement is a positive step that will help save lives, as well as protect taxpayers' money, in Tennessee and across the United States."

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Settlement over a False Claims Act Allegations against Orthopaedic and Neuro Imaging LLC announced.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/24/2018 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that Orthopaedic and Neuro Imaging LLC reached a $16 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit filed by a former employee over submitting false claims for Medicare reimbursement.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

A settlement has been reached to resolve False Claims Act allegations against Orthopaedic and Neuro Imaging LLC and its owner Richard Pfarr.

The allegations arose from a lawsuit that claimed Orthopaedic and Neuro Imaging LLC and its owner, Richard Pfarr submitted false claims for Medicare reimbursement.

According to the government, allegedly Orthopaedic and Neuro Imaging LLC and Richard Pfarr administered contrast dye during MRI scans on patients without proper supervision by a physician. Contrast dye is a chemical that is injected intravenously into the body to make certain tissues easier to see.

"The FBI, along with our partners, will work aggressively to combat healthcare fraud utilizing all tools available to the agencies charged with rooting out fraud," said Special Agent in Charge Gordon B. Johnson of the FBI's Baltimore Division. "We will continue to work tirelessly to prevent these programs from becoming targets and fight fraud wherever we find it. Medical Providers who take shortcuts to enrich themselves in delivering patient care will be held accountable."

Reportedly, Orthopaedic and Neuro Imaging LLC will pay $16,223,091.38 and Richard Pfarr, is jointly and severally liable for $6,125,947.13.

The lawsuit was originally filed by Whistleblower, Robin White, a former employee of Orthopaedic and Neuro Imaging LLC who will receive an 18-percent share of the recovery.

Based in Millsboro, DE, Orthopaedic and Neuro Imaging LLC is in the Neurologist business.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Settlement over a False Claims Act Allegations against Lockheed Martin Corporation announced.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/23/2018 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that Lockheed Martin Corporation reached a $4.4 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit filed by a former employee over providing faulty equipment to the Coast Guard.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

A settlement has been reached to resolve False Claims Act allegations against Lockheed Martin Corporation.

The allegations arose from a lawsuit that claimed Lockheed Martin Corporation violated the civil False Claims Act by providing defective communications systems for the United States Coast Guard's National Security Cutters.

According to the government, Lockheed allegedly supplied a radio frequency distribution system for the cutters that did not meet the requirement of transmitting and receiving several different radio signals at the same time without undue interference. The Coast Guard has taken delivery of the first six Cutters and three additional Cutters are under construction.

Reportedly, Lockheed has agreed to pay $2.2 million, and to provide the Coast Guard with repairs to the Radio Frequency Distribution System on the nine Cutters at no charge. The repairs are valued at $2.2 million.

"This office remains committed to fighting fraud and false claims against the federal government," said Acting U.S. Attorney Tse. "It is essential that the communications systems on the Coast Guard's National Security Cutters work properly. I am pleased that Lockheed has agreed to repair the systems so that they fully function to support the Coast Guard's important mission."

A whistleblower, a former member of Lockheed's engineering staff working on the Coast Guard's National Security Cutters, will receive $990,000 out of the $4.4 million settlement.

Based in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin Corporation a security and aerospace company, engages in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration, and sustainment of technology systems, products, and services worldwide.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Settlement over a False Claims Act Allegations against BP Energy Company announced.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/22/2018 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that BP Energy Company reached a $102 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit filed by a former employee for overcharging California.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

A settlement has been reached to resolve False Claims Act allegations against BP Energy Company.

The allegations arose from a lawsuit that claimed BP Energy Company overcharged the state of California for natural gas between 2003 and 2012.

Allegedly, BP Energy regularly violated contracts to provide gas for numerous state agencies and other governments by exceeding the agreed-upon price cap, and then concealed the overcharges by providing false and misleading information, state Attorney General Xavier Becerra said.

Reportedly, BP Energy was overcharging local jurisdictions, public agencies and universities for natural gas over the course of a decade by selling the state "exotic financial derivative products."

According to the lawsuit, BP Energy overcharged the state at least $150 million to $300 million, and the state sought triple damages. California no longer has natural gas contracts with BP.

"BP thought it could get away with providing false and misleading information in order to line its own pockets," Becerra said. "Today, we send a clear message: cheating the People of California will cost you more than it's worth."

These allegations were brought forward by a former BP employee, Chris Schroen, accusing the oil company of quoting and charging prices above a contractual cap.

Based in Houston, Texas, BP Energy Company, Inc trades and markets electric energy and other energy related products in the United States.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Settlement over a False Claims Act Allegations against Kool Smiles clinics announced.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/21/2018 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that Kool Smiles reached a $23.9 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit filed by former employees over accusation of unnecessary dental work on children.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

A settlement has been reached to resolve False Claims Act allegations against Kool Smiles clinics.

The allegations arose from lawsuits that claimed dental management company Benevis LLC and more than 130 of its affiliated Kool Smiles dental clinics knowingly submitted false claims for payment to state Medicaid programs for medically unnecessary dental services performed on children insured by Medicaid.

According to the government, allegedly between January 2009 and December 2011, Kool Smiles clinics knowingly submitted false claims for unnecessary baby root canals, tooth extractions and stainless steel crowns.

Allegedly, Kool Smiles clinics routinely pressured and incentivized dentists to meet production goals through a system that disciplined "unproductive" dentists and awarded "productive" dentists with substantial cash bonuses based on the revenue generated by the procedures they performed. According to the settlement agreement, complaints from Kool Smiles' own dentists about the medically unnecessary procedures were ignored.

"The allegations in these cases are particularly egregious because they involved medically unnecessary dental services performed on children," said U.S. Attorney John H. Durham for the District of Connecticut. "Exploiting needy children for financial gain is inexcusable. The U.S. Attorney's Office in Connecticut is committed to aggressively pursuing health care providers that submit fraudulent claims to government health care programs."

Reportedly, of the $23.9 million to be paid by Benevis and its affiliated Kool Smiles clinics, the federal government will receive a total of $14,244,073.49, plus interest, and a total of $9,655,926.51, plus interest, will be returned to individual states, which jointly funded improper claims submitted to state Medicaid programs.

"The companies strongly disagree with the government's allegations," Benevis and Kool Smiles said in a statement that pointed out that the settlement is not related to quality of dental care.

Three whistleblowers, former Kool Smiles employees, will get more than $2.4 million as part of the settlement.

Based in Marietta, Georgia, Kool Smiles is a dental services provider, based in the United States with over 100 offices located across 16 different states.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Settlement over a False Claims Act Allegations against EmCare Inc and Physician’s Alliance Ltd announced.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/18/2018 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that EmCare Inc and Physician's Alliance Ltd reached a $33 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit over receiving illegal inducements to refer patients to a hospital operator's facilities.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

A settlement has been reached to resolve False Claims Act allegations against EmCare Inc and Physician's Alliance Ltd.

The allegations arose from a lawsuit that claimed EmCare Inc and Physician's Alliance Ltd (PAL) received illegal remuneration in exchange for patient referrals to hospitals owned by the now-defunct Health Management Associates (HMA).

According to the government, allegedly from 2008 to 2012, HMA made bonus payments to EmCare doctors and tied EmCare's contracts for staffing its hospitals to increasing admissions to HMA facilities of patients covered by Medicare. Under the settlement, EmCare will pay $29.6 million to resolve allegations.

Also, according to the government, allegedly Physicians' Alliance and three of its executives from 2009 to 2012 also accepted payments in return for referring patients to two HMA hospitals. Under the settlement, PAL and its executives will pay $4 million plus a percentage of proceeds from the sale of PAL's interest in a joint venture with HMA.

"These settlements demonstrate our commitment to ensuring that physician judgment is not compromised by illegal inducements," said Acting Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department's Civil Division, Chad A. Readler. "Patient care decisions should be based on the needs of patients rather than the financial interests of physicians."

The whistleblowers, Dr. Thomas Mason and Dr. Stephen Folstad, whose medical practice previously supplied doctors to staff HMA hospital emergency departments, will receive $6.2 million under the EmCare settlement.

In a separate action, former HMA hospital executives, George E. Miller and Michael J. Metts, filed suit alleging the scheme between PAL and HMA. Their share of the settlement has not yet been determined.

Based in Dallas, Texas, EmCare Inc provides physician practice management services for emergency departments, inpatient physician services or hospitals, acute care surgery, trauma and general surgery, women's and children's services, radiology / teleradiology programs and anesthesiology services.

Based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Physician's Alliance Ltd specializes in Health Care for People.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Settlement over a False Claims Act Allegations against 21st Century Oncology Inc announced.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/16/2018 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that 21st Century Oncology Inc reached a $26 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit over allegations of falsely attesting to meaningful use.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

A settlement has been reached to resolve False Claims Act allegations against 21st Century Oncology Inc.

Allegedly, 21st Century Oncology Inc and certain of its subsidiaries and affiliates agreed to pay $26 million to the US government after disclosing that it had falsely attested to its providers' use of electronic health records in order to obtain financial incentives under the meaningful use program.

Reportedly, the settlement also resolved claims that the company and its subsidiaries had violated the False Claims Act by submitting claims for services they had provided "pursuant to referrals from physicians with whom they had improper financial relationships."

"This settlement represents our office's continued commitment to ensuring compliance with important federal health care laws," said Acting U.S. Attorney Stephen Muldrow of the Middle District of Florida. "We appreciate that 21st Century Oncology self-reported a major fraud affecting Medicare, and we are also pleased that the company has agreed to accept financial responsibility for past compliance failures."

According to the government, the settlement resolves conduct that was self-disclosed by the company regarding payments made by the government as part of the Medicare Electronic Health Records (EHR) Incentive Program. Under the Medicare EHR Incentive Program, physicians who attest to their meaningful use of certified EHR technology may receive incentive payments and avoid downward adjustments to certain Medicare claims. As part of its self-disclosure, 21st Century Oncology reported that it knowingly submitted, or caused the submission of, false attestations to CMS concerning employed physicians' use of EHR software. The company further reported that, in support of the attestations, its employees falsified data regarding the company's use of EHR software, fabricated software utilization reports, and superimposed EHR vendor logos onto the reports to make them look legitimate. In addition, the settlement also resolves the government's allegations regarding violations of the physician self-referral law (commonly referred to as the "Stark Law.") The Stark Law prohibits an entity from submitting claims to Medicare for designated health services performed pursuant to referrals from physicians with whom the entity has a financial relationship unless certain designated exceptions apply. The government alleged that 21st Century Oncology and certain of its subsidiaries and affiliates violated the FCA by submitting, or causing the submission of, claims for services performed pursuant to referrals from physicians whose compensation did not satisfy any exception to the Stark Law.

The company reportedly entered into a five-year corporate integrity agreement to implement substantial internal compliance reforms and hire independent review organizations to review claims and arrangements annually.

The whistleblowers' share of the settlement will be $2 million.

Based in Fort Myers, Florida, 21st Century Oncology Inc is a provider of cancer care services.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Settlement over a False Claims Act Allegations against Chemed Corporation and Vitas Hospice Services announced.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/15/2018 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that Chemed Corporation and Vitas Hospice Services reached a $75 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit over submitting false claims for hospice services to Medicare.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

A settlement has been reached to resolve False Claims Act allegations against Chemed Corporation and Vitas Hospice Services.

The allegations arose from a lawsuit that claimed Chemed Corporation and various wholly-owned subsidiaries, including Vitas Hospice Services LLC and Vitas Healthcare Corporation submitted false claims for hospice services to Medicare.

According to the government, between 2002 and 2013 Vitas knowingly submitted or caused to be submitted false claims to Medicare for services to hospice patients who were not terminally ill. Allegedly, Vitas billed for patients who were not terminally ill and thus did not qualify for the hospice benefit. Furthermore, allegedly the defendants rewarded employees with bonuses for the number of patients receiving hospice services, without regard to whether they were actually terminally ill and whether they would have benefited from continuing curative care.

In addition, allegedly between 2002 and 2013, Vitas knowingly submitted or caused to be submitted false claims to Medicare for continuous home care services that were not necessary, not actually provided, or not performed in accordance with Medicare requirements. Allegedly, the defendants set goals for the number of continuous home care days billed to Medicare and used aggressive marketing tactics and pressured staff to increase the volume of continuous home care claims, without regard to whether the patients actually required this level of crisis care.

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for seniors and younger people with disabilities, which is funded by taxpayers.

The Medicare program's hospice benefit provides critical services to some of the most vulnerable patients in the country, and the Justice Department "will continue to ensure that this valuable benefit is used to assist those who need it – and not as an opportunity to line the pockets of those who seek to abuse it," Readler said.

Reportedly, the settlement by Chemed also resolves three lawsuits filed under the whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act.

The whistleblowers share of the settlement has not yet been determined.

Based in Cincinnati, Ohio, Chemed Corporation acquired Vitas in 2004.Vitas is the largest for-profit hospice chain in the United States.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Settlement over a False Claims Act Allegations against Progressive announced.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/14/2018 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that Progressive Casualty Insurance Company, and Progressive Garden State Insurance Company reached a $2 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit over violating the False Claims Act by causing Medicare and Medicaid to pay for claims for which the companies were responsible for.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

A settlement has been reached to resolve False Claims Act allegations against Progressive Casualty Insurance Company and Progressive Garden State Insurance Company.

The allegations arose from a lawsuit that claimed Progressive Casualty Insurance Company, and Progressive Garden State Insurance Company, both part of the Progressive Group of Insurance Companies, violated the False Claims Act by causing Medicare and Medicaid to pay for claims for which the companies were responsible for.

If an individual has Medicare or Medicaid and other private health insurance coverage, each type of coverage constitutes a "payer." The insurance coverage that pays first, referred to as the "primary payer," typically pays to the limits of its coverage for an individual's health care claims. Generally, if there are health care costs that the primary payer does not cover, these costs may then be paid by the individual's other insurance coverage, referred to as the "secondary payer."

Under federal and New Jersey state law, if an individual has both private insurance and Medicare or Medicaid, neither Medicare nor Medicaid may serve as the primary payer for certain claims and the private insurer must remain as the primary payer.

According to the government, allegedly under "health first" automobile insurance policies that it offered, Progressive designated the policyholder's health insurance carrier as the primary payer for medical claims that arose in connection with an automobile accident. Even though, under the law, Progressive could not decline to make primary payment to Medicare or Medicaid beneficiaries, the company permitted Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries to elect a "health first" policy. Many of these policyholders in New Jersey who were Medicare or Medicaid beneficiaries incurred medical claims in connection with an automobile accident. Because Progressive's "health first" policies designated the company as the secondary payer, Medicare and Medicaid improperly paid for claims that Progressive should have paid. The United States and New Jersey alleged that this conduct violated the Medicare Secondary Payer Act and Medicaid regulations and, as a result, Progressive caused false claims to be submitted to Medicare and Medicaid.

The whistleblowers' share of the settlement will be more than $600,000 of the more than $2 million that the United States and New Jersey recovered.

Progressive Corporation is one of the largest providers of car insurance in the United States. The company also insures motorcycles, boats, RVs and commercial vehicles, and provides home insurance through select companies.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Settlement over a False Claims Act Allegations against Catholic Health System Inc announced.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/11/2018 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that Catholic Health System Inc reached a $6 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit filed over submitted false claims to government health care programs.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

A settlement has been reached to resolve False Claims Act allegations against Catholic Health System Inc.

The allegations arose from a lawsuit that claimed Catholic Health System Inc subsidiary Home & Community Based Care submitted false claims to government health care programs.

According to the government, Home & Community Based Care (formerly known as Continuing Care) allegedly submitted or caused to be submitted false claims to Medicare for rehabilitation therapy services from January 2007 through December 2014. The claims involved both long- and short-term skilled nursing care. The nursing home subsidiary allegedly submitted claims to Medicare for the highest and most expensive levels of therapy when that type of therapy was not medically necessary or was unsupported by medical records.

"A healthcare system that is infected with dishonesty is susceptible to one of the worst afflictions known to mankind—human greed," said Acting U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. "Today's settlement demonstrates our unwavering commitment to eradicating this cancer from our federal health care programs."

The allegations were brought forward by a whistleblower under the False Claims Act, which allows private citizens to bring lawsuits on behalf of the United Sates and receive part of the proceeds of a settlement.

Based in Buffalo, New York, Catholic Health System, Inc through its subsidiaries, owns and operates a network of hospitals, primary care centers, imaging centers, and several other community ministries.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The United States Files Lawsuit Against Chicago Area Home Health Care Companies for Allegedly Defrauding Medicare out of Millions of Dollars announced by Whistleblower Institute.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/10/2018 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that Chicago area home health care companies allegedly Defrauded medicare out of millions of dollars.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

According to the government, allegedly, Docs at the Door P.C., owned by Ajibola Ayeni, and Gateway Health Systems Inc., and its owners, Ajibola Ayeni, and Joy H. Turner-Ayeni, defrauded the United States by submitting false claims to Medicare.

Allegedly, Gateway Health Systems Inc and its owners received Medicare payments for home health services purportedly rendered to homebound individuals who were not actually in need of such services. Additionally, Docs at the Door P.C. allegedly falsely certified the non-homebound individuals as in need of home-health services, and fraudulently "upcoded" home physician visits to the second highest billing level in order to increase compensation from Medicare.

Reportedly, Docs at the Door and Gateway each claimed and were paid millions of dollars for services purportedly provided to Medicare beneficiaries. At the direction of the Ayenis, the companies created false documentation to cover up the fact they were claiming services not rendered, as well as services that were not medically necessary because the beneficiaries were not confined to the home. The Ayenis' fraud scheme netted them millions of dollars in federal health care funds to which they were not entitled, the suit states. Also, the government contends that the Ayenis attempted to conceal certain assets from the government after learning of the investigation.

The government complaint arose from a lawsuit filed under seal in 2013 under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act which permits a private person to file a lawsuit on behalf of the government and to share in any recovery.

Based in Illinois, Gateway Health Systems Inc is a home health agency and Docs At The Door Inc is a primary care center.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The Whistleblower Institute announces that Triple Canopy Inc reached a $2.6 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit filed by a former employee over submitting false claims for payment to the Department of Defense for unqualified security guards stationed in Iraq.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2018 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that Triple Canopy Inc reached a $2.6 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit filed by a former employee over submitting false claims for payment to the Department of Defense for unqualified security guards stationed in Iraq.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

A settlement has been reached to resolve False Claims Act allegations against Triple Canopy Inc.

The allegations arose from a lawsuit that claimed Triple Canopy Inc submitted false claims for payment to the Department of Defense for unqualified security guards stationed in Iraq.

According to the Department of Justice, allegedly Triple Canopy knowingly billed the United States for security guards who could not pass contractually required firearms proficiency tests. The tests were designed by the Army to ensure that the guards hired to protect U.S. and allied personnel were capable of firing their assigned weapons safely and accurately. In addition, allegedly Triple Canopy concealed the guards' inability to satisfy the firearms testing requirements by creating false test scorecards that Triple Canopy was required to maintain for government review, in an effort to induce the government to pay for the unqualified guards.

Triple Canopy contracts with the government to provide private security protection forces for U.S. government and allied personnel abroad. The settlement stems from a 2009 contract for security services at Al Asad Airbase in Iraq.

Reportedly, the government's claims were based on a whistleblower suit filed by a former employee of Triple Canopy in 2011. The whistleblowers' share of the settlement will be $500,000.

"Contractors must be held accountable for their actions, especially when the safety of government personnel is at stake," said Dana J. Boente, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, where the suit was filed. "This settlement should remind contractors of the high value we place on safeguarding our personnel abroad."

Based in Reston, Virginia, Triple Canopy Inc is a private security company that provides integrated security, mission support and risk management services to corporate, government and non-profit clients.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

More than $3 Million Settlement over a False Claims Act Allegations against New York Contractors announced by Whistleblower Institute.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2018 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that New York Contractors, along with two owners reached more than $3 Million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit filed over falsely procuring federal contracts designated for service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

A settlement has been reached to resolve False Claims Act allegations against Zoladz Construction Company Inc (ZCCI), Arsenal Contracting LLC (Arsenal), and Alliance Contracting LLC (Alliance), along with two owners, John Zoladz and David Lyons.

The allegations arose from a lawsuit that claimed Zoladz Construction Company Inc (ZCCI), Arsenal Contracting LLC (Arsenal), and Alliance Contracting LLC (Alliance), along with two owners, John Zoladz and David Lyons of improperly obtaining federal set-aside contracts designated for service-disabled veteran-owned (SDVO) small businesses.

Only small business owned and operated by service-disabled veterans are eligible to receive SDVO set-aside contracts.

According to the government, allegedly ZCCI recruited a service-disabled veteran to serve as the purported owner and manager of Arsenal, which was merely a front for securing SDVO set-aside contracts. Arsenal then subcontracted nearly all of the work under those SDVO contracts to Alliance and ZCCI. Additionally, the owners allegedly made false representations to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs regarding Arsenal's eligibility for SDVO contracts.

"Contracts are set aside for service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses so to afford veterans with service-connected disabilities the opportunity to participate in federal contracting and gain valuable experience to help them compete for future economic opportunities," said Acting Assistant Attorney General Chad A. Readler of the Justice Department's Civil Division. "Every time an ineligible contractor knowingly pursues and obtains such set-aside contracts, they are cheating American taxpayers at the expense of service-disabled veterans."

The allegations were brought forward by a whistleblower, who will receive $450,000 as a result of the settlement.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The Whistleblower Institute announces that Pine Creek Medical Center LLC reached a $7.5 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit filed by a former employee.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/07/2018 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that Pine Creek Medical Center LLC reached a $7.5 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit filed by a former employee over paying physicians kickbacks in exchange for surgical referrals.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

A settlement has been reached to resolve False Claims Act allegations against Pine Creek Medical Center LLC.

The allegations arose from a lawsuit that claimed Pine Creek Medical Center LLC violated the False Claims Act by paying physicians kickbacks in the form of marketing services in exchange for surgical referrals.

According to the government, allegedly Pine Creek was involved in an illegal kickback scheme between 2009 and 2014 that involved the hospital paying for physicians' marketing and advertising services in exchange for patient referrals. Allegedly, Pine Creek paid for print, radio and television ads on behalf of physicians.

"Health care providers that attempt to profit from illegal kickbacks will be held accountable," said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Chad A. Readler, head of the Justice Department's Civil Division. "Improper financial incentives can distort medical decision making and drive up healthcare costs for federal health care programs and their beneficiaries."

As part of the settlement, Pine Creek has agreed to enter into a corporate integrity agreement with the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, which obligates the defendants to undertake substantial internal compliance reforms for the next five years.

The whistleblowers, Suzanne Scott and Savannah Sogar, former employees of Pine Creek's marketing department, will receive $1,125,000.

Pine Creek Medical Center LLC is a private, physician-owned and operated hospital serving more than 3 million people in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and surrounding counties.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The Whistleblower Institute announces that CHRISTUS St. Vincent Regional Medical Center and CHRISTUS Health reached a $12.24 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/10/2017 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that CHRISTUS St. Vincent Regional Medical Center and CHRISTUS Health reached a $12.24 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit filed by a former Los Alamos County, New Mexico Indigent Healthcare Administrator over Medicaid payments and allegations that the hospital violated the False Claims Act.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

A settlement has been reached to resolve False Claims Act allegations against CHRISTUS St. Vincent Regional Medical Center and CHRISTUS Health.

The allegations arose from a lawsuit that claimed CHRISTUS St. Vincent Regional Medical Center and CHRISTUS Health violated the False Claims Act by making illegal donations to county governments, which were used to fund the state share of Medicaid payments to the hospital.

According to the government, CHRISTUS St. Vincent Regional Medical Center and CHRISTUS Health allegedly made illegal payments in 2001-2009 to county governments that were used to pay for New Mexico's portion of Medicaid payments to Christus.

Under New Mexico's Sole Community Provider program, supplemental Medicaid funds were provided to rural hospitals. The federal government reimbursed New Mexico for about 75 percent of its payments under the SCP program, while New Mexico's 25 percent "matching" share of payments had to come from state or county funds. This excluded donations from private hospitals. The program ended in 2014.

"Protecting the integrity of the Medicaid program is crucial because millions of Americans, including hundreds of thousands of New Mexicans, depend on the program for medical care and related services," said Acting U.S. Attorney James D. Tierney for the District of New Mexico. "This case illustrates our commitment to ensuring that government funds are legally obtained and used for their intended purposes. We will use all available civil remedies to recover the ill-gotten gains obtained by those who defraud government health care programs."

Reportedly, this settlement resolves allegations originally brought in a lawsuit filed by a former Los Alamos County, New Mexico Indigent Healthcare Administrator.

The whistleblowers' share of the settlement will be $2.249 million.

Based in Santa Fe, New Mexico CHRISTUS St. Vincent Regional Medical Center is a general hospital. The hospital is the oldest in the State of New Mexico, since being established in the downtown plaza before it was moved in 1977 to developing St. Michaels Drive.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The Whistleblower Institute announces that Novo Nordisk Inc reached a $58 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/10/2017 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that Novo Nordisk Inc reached a $58 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit over failing to Comply with FDA-Mandated Risk Program.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

A settlement has been reached to resolve False Claims Act allegations against Novo Nordisk Inc.

The allegations arose from a lawsuit that claimed Novo Nordisk Inc failed to comply with the FDA-mandated Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) for its Type II diabetes medication Victoza.

According to the government, the Food and Drug Administration approved Victoza for sale in 2010; it required Novo Nordisk to provide information to physicians about the potential risk of a rare form of cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). Allegedly, company sales representatives gave information that created a false or misleading impression about the required risk message that led some doctors to be unaware of the potential risks.

Reportedly, a 2011 survey showed that half of primary care doctors were unaware of the potential risk of MTC, the FDA required Novo Nordisk to company to change its procedures to increase awareness of the risk. Allegedly, Novo Nordisk told sales representatives to provide statements to doctors that obscured information about the risk.

"Novo Nordisk Inc. sales representatives misled physicians by failing to accurately disclose a potential life threatening side effect of a prescription drug, and needlessly increased risks to patients being treated with this drug," said Assistant Director in Charge Andrew W. Vale of the FBI's Washington Field Office. "The FBI is committed to ensuring that the private industry provides honest and accurate risk information to the public and will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to investigate companies who do not comply with FDA-mandated policies."

The settlements include a payment of $46.5 million for violations of the False Claims Act between 2010 and 2014 and $12.5 million for violations of the federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act from 2010 to 2012. Out of those settlements, $3.32 million will go to state Medicaid programs.

Based in Bagsvaerd, Denmark, Novo Nordisk is a Danish multinational pharmaceutical company, with production facilities in eight countries, and affiliates or offices in 75 countries.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The Whistleblower Institute announces that MediSys Health Network Inc reached a $4 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/03/2017 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that MediSys Health Network Inc reached a $4 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit filed over improper payments to physicians.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

A settlement has been reached to resolve False Claims Act allegations against MediSys Health Network Inc.

The allegations arose from a lawsuit that claimed MediSys Health Network Inc., which owns and operates Jamaica Hospital Medical Center and Flushing Hospital and Medical Center, two hospitals in Queens, New York, violated the False Claims Act by engaging in improper financial relationships with referring physicians.

According to the government, the defendants allegedly submitted false claims to the Medicare program for services rendered to patients referred by physicians with whom the defendants had improper financial relationships. These relationships took the form of compensation and office lease arrangements that did not comply with the requirements of the Stark Law, which restricts the financial relationships that hospitals may have with doctors who refer patients to them.

"Health care providers who enter into improper financial relations with referring physicians compromise the referral process and encourage over-utilization of services, to the potential detriment of both patients and taxpayers," said Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Rohde for the Eastern District of New York. "We will hold health care providers accountable for their violations of federal law."

The lawsuit was filed by Dr. Satish Deshpande, who will receive $600,000 as his share of the recovery.

Established in 1995, MediSys Health Network Inc is a not-for-profit organization located within New York City.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The Whistleblower Institute announces that Alaska Department of Health and Social Services reached a $2.5 million settlement in a False Claims Act lawsuit.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/03/2017 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that Alaska Department of Health and Social Services reached a $2.5 million settlement in a False Claims Act lawsuit over inaccurate reporting in the administration of a federal food assistance program

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

A settlement has been reached to resolve False Claims Act allegations against Alaska Department of Health and Social Services.

According to the Justice Department, Alaska Department of Health and Social Services (ADHSS) has agreed to pay the United States $2,489,999 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act in its administration of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the Food Stamps Program.

A consultant, who advised ADHSS disputes the federal claims about the program that provides financial assistance to low-income families so they can buy nutritious food.

Individuals in the program receive an electronic benefit transfer card that can be used at participating stores to buy eligible food such as fruits, vegetables, whole-grain products and other items. Since 2010, SNAP has served on average more than 45 million Americans per month, and provided more than $71 billion annually.

"This settlement reflects the Justice Department's commitment to ensuring that taxpayer funds are spent appropriately so that the public can have confidence in the integrity of programs like SNAP," said Acting Assistant Attorney General Chad A. Readler of the Justice Department's Civil Division.

Reportedly, the settlement resolves allegations that ADHSS, beginning in late 2009, contracted with a consultant known as Julie Osnes Consulting to provide advice and recommendations designed to lower its SNAP quality control error rate. The United States alleged that Osnes Consulting's recommendations, as implemented by ADHSS, injected bias into ADHSS's quality control process and resulted in ADHSS submitting inaccurate quality control data and information to USDA and receiving performance bonuses for fiscal years 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013, that it should not have received.

"Alaska terminated its contract with Osnes Consulting in early 2015 and has reviewed and changed its quality control practices," stated Department of Law spokeswoman Cori Mills.

Based in Juneau, Alaska Department of Health and Social Services is a state agency of Alaska.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The Whistleblower Institute announces that Galena Biopharma Inc reached a $7.55 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 09/27/2017 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that Galena Biopharma Inc reached a $7.55 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit over paying kickbacks to doctors to induce them to prescribe its fentanyl-based drug Abstral.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

A settlement has been reached to resolve False Claims Act allegations against Galena Biopharma Inc.

The allegations arose from a lawsuit that claimed Galena Biopharma Inc paid kickbacks to doctors to induce them to prescribe its fentanyl-based drug Abstral.

According to the government, Galena allegedly paid multiple types of kickbacks to induce doctors to prescribe Abstral, including providing more than 85 free meals to doctors and staff from a single, high-prescribing practice; paying doctors $5,000, and speakers $6,000, plus expenses, to attend an "advisory board" that was partly planned, and attended, by Galena sales team members and paying approximately $92,000 to a physician-owned pharmacy under a performance-based rebate agreement to induce the owners to prescribe Abstral.

Allegedly, Galena also paid doctors to refer patients to the company's RELIEF patient registry study, which was nominally designed to collect data on patient experiences with Abstral, but acted as a means to induce the doctors to prescribe Abstral.

"Given the dangers associated with opioids such as Abstral, it is imperative that prescriptions be based on a patient's medical need rather than a doctor's financial interests," said Acting Assistant Attorney General Chad A. Readler of the Justice Department's Civil Division. "The Department of Justice intends to vigorously pursue those who offer and receive illegal inducements that undermine the integrity of government health care programs."

The whistleblowers' share of the settlement will be $1.2 million.

Based in San Ramon, California, Galena Biopharma Inc is a publicly traded pharmaceutical company.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The Whistleblower Institute announces that Family Medicine Centers of South Carolina LLC reached a $2 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 09/27/2017 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that Family Medicine Centers of South Carolina LLC reached a $2 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit filed by a former employee over submitting and causing the submission of false claims to the Medicare and TRICARE programs.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

A settlement has been reached to resolve False Claims Act allegations against Family Medicine Centers of South Carolina LLC, Its Co-Owner, and Its Laboratory Director.

Family Medicine Centers of South Carolina LLC (FMC) will pay $1.56 million under the settlement, while its principal owner and former CEO Stephen Serbin and its former Laboratory Director Victoria Serbin have also agreed to pay $443,000.

The allegations arose from a lawsuit that claimed Family Medicine Centers of South Carolina LLC, Its Co-Owner, and Its Laboratory Director submitted and caused the submission of false claims to the Medicare and TRICARE programs.

According to the government, allegedly FMC, Dr. Serbin and Victoria Serbin were responsible for submitting false claims to Medicare and Tricare for medically unnecessary laboratory services. They allegedly created custom laboratory panels of diagnostic tests that aren't appropriate for routine measurement and performed the tests without an order from the treating physician. They allegedly implemented standing orders to make sure these tests were performed with specific frequency, and not because of clinical need. They allegedly programmed the FMC billing software to change certain billing codes for laboratory tests to ensure Medicare would pay.

Also, allegedly FMC submitted claims to Medicare that violated the physician self-referral prohibition, known as the Stark Law, which is intended to prevent a physician's medical judgment from being compromised by improper financial incentives. Allegedly, FMC's incentive compensation plan paid doctors a percentage of the value of laboratory and other diagnostic tests that these same doctors ordered through FMC. Family Medicine Centers of South Carolina then billed Medicare for the costs.

"Healthcare decisions should be made by physicians based on medical science and not with regard to maximizing the doctor's own income," said U.S. Attorney Beth Drake for the District of South Carolina. "Our goal in bringing this case was not only to recover money for improper healthcare claims, but also to deter similar conduct and promote health care affordability."

Reportedly, as part of the settlement, FMC and the Serbins have also agreed to enter into a Corporate Integrity Agreement with the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), which ensures the Serbins will have no management role in FMC for five years and obligates FMC to undertake other substantial internal compliance reforms, including hiring an independent review organization to conduct annual claims reviews.

The Whistleblower, Dr. Schaefer, formerly employed by FMC, will receive $340,510.

Based in Columbia, South Carolina, Family Medicine Centers of South Carolina specializes in Family Medicine.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

The material was prepared by the Whistleblower Institute for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. The information is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most currently available public information, is not provided as a basis for any established or existing relationship, and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice, or to substitute for obtaining such advice from an attorney or other advisor licensed in your state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The Whistleblower Institute announces that Mylan reached a $465 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit.

San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 09/25/2017 -- The Whistleblower Institute announces that Mylan reached a $465 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit filed by a competing pharmaceutical manufacturer, for knowingly misclassifying EpiPen as a generic drug to avoid paying rebates owed to Medicaid.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute at mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com or call: 619-452–1218. There are no costs or obligations to you.

A settlement has been reached to resolve False Claims Act allegations against Mylan Inc and Mylan Specialty L.P.

The allegations arose from a lawsuit that claimed Mylan Inc and Mylan Specialty L.P. knowingly misclassified EpiPen, a branded epinephrine auto-injector drug, as a generic drug to avoid paying rebates owed to Medicaid.

According to the government, Mylan allegedly improperly avoided paying state Medicaid programs the higher rebates for branded drugs by misclassifying EpiPen as a generic drug, even though EpiPen had no FDA-approved therapeutic equivalents and even though Mylan marketed and priced EpiPen as a brand name drug. Mylan raised the price of EpiPen by approximately 400% between 2010 and 2016.

Reportedly, as part of this settlement, Mylan has also entered into a corporate integrity agreement with the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) that requires, among other things, an independent review organization to annually review multiple aspects of Mylan's practices relating to the Medicaid drug rebate program.

Sanofi, a competing pharmaceutical manufacturer brought this matter forward. In 2016, Sanofi filed a complaint against Mylan under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties to sue on behalf of the government and to receive a share of any recovery.

Sanofi's share of the settlement will be $38.7 million.

"Mylan misclassified its brand name drug, EpiPen, to profit at the expense of the Medicaid program," said Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb. "Taxpayers rightly expect companies like Mylan that receive payments from taxpayer-funded programs to scrupulously follow the rules. We will continue to root out fraud and abuse to protect the integrity of Medicaid and ensure a level playing field for pharmaceutical companies. We commend Sanofi for bringing this matter to our attention."

Based in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, Mylan is an American global generic and specialty pharmaceuticals company.

The Whistleblower Institute is an information portal for current or former employees and other people having insight information about wrongdoing and other illegal activities by individuals either individually or within corporations, through company culture and or within international affairs. Whistleblowers should keep in mind that under the Dodd-Frank Act any person who provides the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") with original information that leads to a successful enforcement action with over $1 million recovered must be awarded between 10%-30% of the total amount recovered. In order to determine the total amount of the reward there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Whistleblower actions are complex and our goal is to guide any whistleblower every step of the way. The Whistleblower Institute is dedicated to partnering with any individual who have information about fraud and we work with many of the best law firms worldwide.

Those who have a similar case or experienced a similar situation or any other wrongdoing within a corporation have certain options and should contact the Whistleblower Institute.

Contact:
Whistleblower Institute
2534 State Street - Suite 406
San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone: +1 (619) 452–1218
Facsimile: +1 (619) 785 – 3185
Email: mail@whistleblowerinstitute.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm