HARTFORD, Conn. (Legal Newsline) — Connecticut Attorney General George Jepsen has announced Dr. Douglas Macko and his dental practice have been ordered by a superior court judge to pay $717,046 in restitution after allegations of violating the Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act (CUPTA).
"The court's ruling should send a clear message that Connecticut will be vigilant in protecting our taxpayer-funded healthcare programs from this type of illegal conduct," Jepsen said. "I appreciate the continued coordination and partnership with the Department of Social Services to ensure that our most vulnerable citizens as well as our taxpayer interests are protected."
Macko allegedly devised and implemented a scheme to improperly bill the state’s Medicaid program for pediatric dental cleanings and fluoride treatments. Under law, these treatments can only be given by licensed dentists or licensed dental hygenists. Macko purportedly let unlicensed assistants and sometimes even the patients or their parents conduct the service.
"We want to make it clear that professionals who step over the line and take advantage of taxpayers and consumers in Connecticut will suffer the consequences," said Jonathan Harris, commissioner of the Department of Consumer Protection. "Ensuring public health and safety is our number one priority.”