$85
Million
Halifax Health settlement of Medicare kickback claims
Whistleblower Exposes Halifax Health Fraud, Leading to $85M Settlement
A whistleblower lawsuit filed by Elin Balid-Kunz led to a record-breaking $85 million settlement against Halifax Health for illegal physician compensation and Medicare fraud. Ms. Kunz, who worked for 17 years as Halifax’s Director of Physician Services, uncovered systemic Stark Law violations and took legal action to hold the hospital accountable.
Medicare Fraud & Illegal Kickbacks
Ms. Kunz alleged that Halifax Health knowingly submitted thousands of fraudulent Medicare claims and paid illegal kickbacks to referring physicians to boost hospital admissions. The Medicare fraud case resulted in one of the largest Stark Law settlements in U.S. history.
Whistleblower’s Fight for Justice
As a compliance professional, Ms. Kunz repeatedly raised concerns with Halifax’s senior management, but her warnings were ignored. Instead, she faced harassment and retaliation for speaking out. Refusing to back down, she pursued the Medicare fraud case, ensuring accountability and justice.
For her courage and persistence, she was named “Whistleblower of the Year” in 2014 by the Taxpayers Against Fraud Education Fund.
This case remains a landmark victory in Medicare fraud cases, demonstrating the critical role of whistleblowers in exposing healthcare fraud.
Report Fraud at No Cost
If you have information about fraudulent practices, contact our office for a free, confidential consultation:
- Fill out our consultation form by clicking here.
- Email us at info@wilbanksgouinlock.com.
- Call (404) 842-1075, ext. 123 or 122.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice.