False Claims Act Cases Recover $3.8 Billion in 2013

The Justice Department best defense against fraud is Qui Tam civil lawsuits under the False Claims Act.  In 2013, the Justice Department recovered $3.8 billion in settlements and judgments involving fraud against the United States Government.  The number of lawsuits soared to 752, and was the second largest annual recovery under the False Claims Act since January 2009.  In addition, Whistleblowers were awarded $345 million under the False Claims Act.

The largest recoveries under the False Claims Act related to heath care fraud, which reached $2.6 billion.  The False Claims Act is the United States Government primary civil remedy to redress false claims for government funds and property under government contracts, as well as under government programs.  In 1986, Congress strengthened the False Claims Act by increasing incentives for whistleblowers to file lawsuits on behalf of the government, which has led to more investigations and greater recoveries. 

The highest risks area in the Government that results in the highest recoveries is health care fraud.  No wonder why my doctor visit costs over $1,000.  The biggest risk areas within the health care field relates to pharmaceutical and medical devices.  Doctors, Accountants, Office Managers in the health care industry, fraud is everywhere…rat on your bosses and co-workers and make millions.  For examples of successful Health Care Whistleblower cases, read my last blog “Whistleblowing on Health Care Fraud.”

Related Link: http://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/2013/December/13-civ-1352.html