A settlement has been reached to resolve fraud allegations against the owner of The Skin Cancer Medical Center.
The allegations arose from a lawsuit that claimed the owner of The Skin Cancer Medical Center submitted bills to Medicare for Mohs micrographic surgeries for skin cancers that were medically unnecessary.
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, the owner of The Skin Cancer Medical Center, Dr. Norman A. Brooks, paid the $2,681,400 settlement on April 10 without admitting liability.
Allegedly, Brooks falsely diagnosed skin cancer in some of his patients so that he could perform and bill for Mohs surgeries. This specialized procedure is used for removing certain types of skin cancers in specific areas of the body, including the face.
Reportedly, as part of the settlement, Brooks entered into a three-year Integrity Agreement with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. Under the Integrity Agreement, Brooks will establish and maintain a compliance program that includes, among other things, mandated training for Brooks and his employees and review procedures for claims submitted to Medicare and Medicaid programs.
This lawsuit was brought forward by a former employee, Janet Burke, who will receive $482,500 for her role in the case.
