REHAB RACKET
For the last two fiscal years, some Medicare funded rehabs in California have been stealing money—more than $94 million.
It took an investigation by CNN and the Center for Investigative Reporting to get the state to start cracking down. Now, more than 36 clinics have been referred to the California Department of Justice for possible prosecution.
ONE RED FLAG AFTER ANOTHER
How did they get away with it? The methods to get money were creative and appalling
- Busing teens in from group homes, many of whom didn’t have drug problems, so they could claim more state money
- Paying clients to attend counseling sessions (one client admitted she used the money to buy more marijuana)
- Claiming to treat clients who don’t exist because they are in prison (one was even dead)
- Billing the state for treatment on days when the clinic was actually closed
Serious felons running rehabs, faking signatures, missing paperwork and the list goes on.
WHO’S IT HURTING?
State officials knew there was fraud going on, but until now have been able to take little action. CNN reporter, Drew Griffin, is asking a lot of good questions: Why has it taken so long? Isn’t stealing money from taxpayers across the nation a concern—a big one?
Sure, it’s hurting the state and the taxpayers, but who is it really hurting?
It’s hurting those who need help the most—the people struggling with a destructive disease called addiction. $94 million could have provided over 55,000 people with 28 days of outpatient treatment at a publicly funded rehab.
And that’s outrageous.
It’s extremely sad to think that people in need of treatment could not receive care because clinics across California were more focused on unethically lining their own pockets than helping people heal from the disease of addiction.
HOW CAN I AVOID THIS SCAM?
- Before you commit to rehab, make sure you understand the values and philosophy behind their treatment approach.
- Check their website for affiliations from the state or from national organizations, such as the National Council of Alcoholism.
- Be sure to see what the alumni have to say through testimonials or social media.
- Most importantly, visiting the treatment center is the best way to not only find out if they are genuine, but if it’s the right fit for you.
You can be sure to find a caring and welcoming staff at Duffy’s. We want to help you start on your journey of recovery and support you every step along the way. Call us today (707.348.4874) to schedule your visit.