Allin IP DX LLC, a laboratory based in Sarasota, Florida, has agreed to pay $980,000 to settle allegations that it violated the Anti-Kickback Statute and False Claims Act. The company was accused of making improper payments to independent marketers for referrals of Medicare beneficiaries’ lab specimens.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, these actions took place between January 2 and June 15, 2023. The government alleged that Allin paid remuneration to marketers in exchange for referring lab specimens, which led to false claims being submitted to Medicare. Allin voluntarily disclosed its conduct and cooperated with the investigation by providing a detailed disclosure statement and additional information.
The Anti-Kickback Statute prohibits offering or receiving payment in return for referrals covered by federally funded healthcare programs such as Medicare and Medicaid. The law aims to ensure medical providers make decisions based on patient interests rather than financial incentives.
“This settlement is a reflection of our commitment to protect our healthcare programs and deter those who violate federal laws at the expense of our taxpayers,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe. “Laboratory testing is important to our beneficiaries, and we will hold providers accountable to safeguard our programs and ensure the provision of appropriate lab services to patients.”
“Medicare beneficiaries rely on the integrity of the Medicare program,” said Special Agent in Charge Isaac M. Bledsoe of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Today’s resolution demonstrates our continued commitment to holding providers accountable and ensuring that medical decisions are driven by patient needs, not illegal incentives.”
The case was investigated by HHS-OIG and handled by Assistant United States Attorney Sean Keefe.
The settlement resolves allegations only; there has been no determination of liability.
