As much as we try to protect consumers, unfortunately, pharmaceutical fraud continues to affect millions of individuals every year. Pharma companies, doctors, and drug representatives can misuse their positions. Areas of concern include illegal kickbacks, off-labeling, and even fraudulent genetic testing intended to scam seniors into agreeing to unnecessary medical procedures. The players in these schemes reap the benefits of the misused insurance funds and use the profits to strengthen their illegal operations to target more vulnerable populations.
The best way to battle fraud is to expose where it is occurring and the individuals perpetrating the offenses. But the decision to blow the whistle is never easy. It requires careful determination and the right legal team to enact positive change. But where do you begin? If you suspect pharma fraud is occurring, here is a helpful step-by-step guide to reporting the activity.
Step 1: How to Spot Pharma Fraud
Pharma fraudsters work so quickly and frequently that many of us may experience it or become victims of it without even knowing. Some telltale signs of pharma fraud in your organization can be: doctors or pharmacists receiving compensation for utilizing certain specialty providers; marketing drugs or treatments for uses other than those indicated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and pushing patients into assistance programs funded by self-serving pharmaceutical companies.
Fraudulent activity can also exist if your organization instructs employees to make unexpected phone calls and emails to ask consumers for sensitive or personal information. It’s important to remember that if you’re ever unsure if something constitutes fraud, it never hurts to reach out to us. You can have confidence and peace of mind knowing your information is confidential.
Step 2: Document Everything
If you suspect pharma fraud or have seen signs that indicate fraudulent activity, the next step is to gather information. The information you provide will help your legal team build a stronger case. Here are just a few items to consider when documenting data and information:
- Names of important players: doctors, pharmaceutical representatives, lab facilities
- Names of drugs or treatments being off-labeled, marketed, abused, or misused
- Any websites, phone numbers, or cell phone data associated with the fraudulent activity
- Copies of documents used to record and solicit information
- Knowledge or evidence of false medicare claims
- Nature of any kickbacks exchanged: how were the parties compensated
- Knowledge of lead generation/targeting practices
- Failure of medical facilities to uphold patient care
The signs of pharma fraud can be varied and tailored to fit specific drugs, treatments, or illegal goals. You can explore more examples of allegations and how to report fraud on our website. It’s essential to gather information carefully.
Step 3: Who to Contact
With the information you collected, reach out for help. Search for available resources and partners to best expose the fraud. If you have coworkers who also suspect or have witnessed the alleged fraud, be sure to include them in the discussion. Whistleblower law firms like DJO want to make sure you feel safe as we partner together to expose and eliminate pharmaceutical fraud.
Whistleblowing is a heroic action that can stop pharma fraud in its tracks. Whether your knowledge of fraudulent activity is minimal or heavily exposed, DJO will be there every step of the way to ensure you are safe and your information is confidential. You will have confidence knowing you’re doing the right thing. Plus, if your tip leads to a settlement, you can be eligible to receive a substantial reward for your information. If you’re ready to take the next step, contact us today.
