A whistleblower is any individual who, after becoming aware of illegal or unethical behavior, informs officials who are empowered to take action for the public good. Whistleblowing typically involves powerful entities such as government officials, large corporations, or information/entertainment conglomerates that have engaged in behaviors that pose a threat to our nation and its people. Whistleblowing can also be done to draw attention to fraud and corruption perpetrated by government contractors and private companies.
Though frequently maligned, whistleblowers are brave and patriotic individuals who often place their own standing and security in danger for the benefit of others. Commonly subject to attack from individuals, corporations, and government officials for their bravery, whistleblowers need a dedicated team of attorneys who can ensure their rights are protected from the moment they speak up.
The North Carolina whistleblower attorneys at White & Stradley, PLLC fight to protect those brave individuals who would take a stand against fraud, corruption, and illicit activities. Call our Raleigh office at 888-666-2446 to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you with every aspect of your whistleblowing case.
Medicare/Medicaid Fraud
Medicare and Medicaid exist to help people who may otherwise not be able to afford health insurance. These programs are designed to protect our most vulnerable citizens, yet unscrupulous healthcare providers often try to bilk the system, engaging in fraudulent activities to secure funds they are not entitled to. This harms everyone currently receiving benefits and places in jeopardy those who will rely on these programs in the future.
Common forms of Medicare and Medicaid fraud include:
- Submitting bills to state or federal government offices for services that were not provided
- Over-billing or “up-coding” to charge for a higher level of service than what was provided
- Submitting bills at higher rates for services performed by unqualified personnel such as technicians
- Billing for name-brand medications when generics are dispensed
- Off-label marketing of drugs or medical devices for unapproved uses
This type of healthcare fraud increases both medical costs and taxes for everyone – all for the benefit of a few corrupt individuals. If you become aware of Medicaid or Medicare fraud, you have the right – perhaps even the obligation – to blow the whistle, hold these individuals and corporations accountable, and protect your fellow citizens from the consequences of unchecked greed.
The whistleblower attorneys at our Raleigh office are prepared to act swiftly on Medicaid and Medicare fraud cases. Please use the contact form on this page or call us right away to schedule a free consultation and learn more.
Qui Tam
Individuals who blow the whistle on healthcare fraud are protected against retaliation by federal law. They may also be entitled to a portion of any penalty imposed on the guilty party.
Under the False Claims Act, private citizens can bring legal action against government contractors engaged in fraudulent activities, even if that citizen is not affiliated with a government entity. Individuals who do this may be entitled to up to 25% of the total recovered damages under a legal provision known as Qui Tam.
Qui Tam is a writ that allows a private citizen to receive compensation for assisting prosecution in whistleblowing cases. While a reward is never guaranteed, whistleblowers who expose fraud against the government are often compensated for their role in bringing justice to individuals and companies engaged in illegal and unethical activities.
Money is not necessarily a motivating factor in whistleblowing cases, but this type of compensation for bravery is a long-standing tradition, dating back to Colonial times in the United States. We can discuss Qui Tam and what you may be entitled to under this writ during your initial consultation.
Contact White & Stradley, PLLC
If you are aware of fraud, corruption, or illegal or unethical behavior, you have a right to blow the whistle. White & Stradley, PLLC is here to protect you and advocate for your rights every step of the way.
Call us at 888-666-2446 to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help. Located in Raleigh, our whistleblower attorneys serve Charlotte, Greenville, and all of North Carolina.