Manishkumar Patel, a resident of Pelham Manor, pleaded guilty to multiple charges of healthcare fraud, wire fraud, and violating the anti-kickback statute. Between 2019 and 2022, he engaged in illegal activities with an accomplice that resulted in substantial losses amounting to almost $50 million.
Their scheme involved obtaining prescription details from call centers and using them to set up telemedicine appointments with Medicare patients. Doctors were coerced into signing off on fraudulent prescriptions without interacting with the patients in person. The drugs obtained through these deceptive means were then sold to Medicare providers, leading to significant losses.
As part of his punishment, Patel has been ordered to pay restitution exceeding $48 million to the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. He must also forfeit over $6 million in addition to facing potential maximum prison sentences of five years for each offense committed.
Patel’s actions not only defrauded the healthcare system but also put the well-being of those in need of legitimate medical assistance at risk. Such crimes have severe consequences and can impact the integrity of the healthcare industry as a whole.
In conclusion, Manishkumar Patel’s guilty plea serves as a reminder that healthcare fraud is a serious crime that not only harms individuals but also puts the entire healthcare system at risk. It is crucial that we continue to work towards preventing such crimes from occurring and holding those who engage in such activities accountable for their actions.
