Two former employees alleged unnecessary procedures and fraudulent billing practices at Atlanta urology practice.
Atlanta Today
Dr. Jitesh Patel and his practice, Advanced Urology, Inc., have agreed to pay $14 million to settle allegations of fraudulent billing and medically unnecessary procedures involving federal healthcare programs like Medicare and Medicaid. The settlement resolves two whistleblower lawsuits filed by a former employee and a former physician, who alleged systemic practices aimed at maximizing revenue through unnecessary tests and procedures.
This case highlights the importance of whistleblower protections and the government's efforts to crack down on healthcare fraud, which can drive up costs for taxpayers and patients. It also raises concerns about the integrity of medical billing practices and the need for stronger oversight to ensure patients receive appropriate, medically necessary care.
The whistleblowers alleged that the practice implanted permanent Sacral Nerve Stimulator devices without confirming patient benefit, performed unnecessary cystoscopy and retrograde pyelogram procedures requiring anesthesia, and routinely conducted electromyography tests on new patients despite their limited relevance in urology. They also cited thousands of unnecessary ultrasound orders. Additionally, the practice was accused of billing for procedures that were not performed, while carrying out less complex treatments but seeking higher...
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