Two former radiologists file whistleblower lawsuit against Bozeman Health Deaconess Hospital.
The allegations arose by a lawsuit claiming Bozeman Health Deaconess Hospital of illegally conspiring to maintain its monopoly on radiology services, leading to fraudulent bills being submitted to Medicare and Medicaid.
Mr. Rembert and Mr. Paradise allege the radiology group that had contracted with the Bozeman hospital was considering opening an outpatient imaging center, which would have competed with the hospital for patients and possibly offered services at a lower cost. Allegedly, the hospital formed a joint venture with the radiology group and agreed to refer patients to the joint venture in exchange for millions of dollars in kickbacks.
The hospital's partnership with Intercity Radiology included a clause that prevented its employees from participating in any other outpatient imaging center.
The scheme resulted in millions of dollars in fraudulent claims.
The Bozeman Daily Chronicle reported that the Hospital attorney Ian McIntosh denied the allegations and said the hospital will defend itself against the lawsuit.
