Two local doctors are part of a wider federal investigation.
BUFFALO, N.Y. — Two local doctors are among 324 people charged in connection with the federal government's effort to crack down on health care fraud. The alleged Medicare fraud totals $14.6 billion, and combined, the two local cases reach into the millions.
"These cases do not happen without the doctor because at the end of the day, the doctor is the one who signs the prescription form," said Michael DiGiacomo, United States Attorney, Western District of New York.
Both cases here go back to 2020.
40-year-old Dr. Joel Durinka of Orchard Park is charged with conspiracy to commit health care fraud, health care fraud, and false statements relating to health care matters in connection with a telehealth and durable medical equipment scheme.
He's accused of billing Medicare $5.6 million for fraudulent telehealth visits and billing Medicare nearly $30 million for medical devices, like hip and knee braces, for people who didn't need them.
And, 50-year-old Dr. Enaame Farrell, who lives in Canada, is named in a civil complaint. He's accused of violating the False Claims Act and defrauding Medicare with false claims totaling $3.4 million.
Both could potentially lose their medical licenses depending on how the cases are resolved.
The FBI and U.S. Attorney say you should check your insurance forms, and help your loved ones check theirs, to cut down on fraud.
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