Efforts to Combat Hospice Fraud and Enhance Care Integrity

Kim Johnson, Secretary of the California Health and Human Services Agency, announced the dismantling of a $267 million hospice fraud scheme in Los Angeles. Millions of Americans depend daily on home care, trusting that services are provided with integrity, either by home health nurses helping recovery after hospitalization or hospice teams offering support at life’s end. These services play a crucial role in patient and family support nationwide.

Home health and hospice providers deliver care at home, earning trust as they support patients during critical periods. Fraud in these programs damages more than finances; it exploits the vulnerable, undermines legitimate providers, and erodes trust in healthcare services. Fighting healthcare fraud must remain a national priority.

Partnerships with organizations like the National Alliance for Care at Home target fraud. The Protecting Seniors and Stopping Fraudsters Act aims to uphold program integrity in home health and hospice, ensuring patient access to essential care while reducing burdens on legitimate providers. Despite fraud concerns, most hospice providers offer compassionate, high-quality care.

The proposed legislation reinforces oversight and accountability through practical measures, such as penalizing non-compliant providers and requiring site visits for suspicious billing. Strengthening accrediting organizations and blocking fraudulent operators from Medicare access are key steps in maintaining safe, trustworthy care.

Dr. Mehmet Oz’s leadership and collaborative efforts enhance Medicare and Medicaid oversight by directing enforcement to crucial areas. Providers, regulators, and lawmakers share the goal of ensuring safe, reliable care, conserving taxpayer resources, and maintaining program integrity.

Representative Beth Van Duyne, from the 24th District of Texas and a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, and Jennifer Sheets, CEO of the National Alliance for Care at Home, emphasize that integrity in Medicare is vital for the continued access to services for families in need.