A counselor in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, has paid a $25,000 settlement over allegations that she made false claims to the state’s Medicaid program, Attorney General Chris Koster said on Friday.
Jennifer Kirchhoff allegedly billed Missouri’s Medicaid program, MO HealthNet, for therapy services she didn’t provide.
Among the allegations were that Kirchhoff repeatedly billed MO HealthNet for a single family-therapy session, which resulted in the state paying her $8,062;
"My office will continue to vigorously investigate allegations of Medicaid fraud and to return scarce health care dollars to Missouri," Koster said.
Of the $25,000 settlement, $8,062 will go to restitution to the state's Medicaid program, $14,438 will cover penalties and damages, and $2,500 will be used to pay for the cost of the state's investigation.
As part of the deal, Kirchhoff will no longer be able to do business with MO HealthNet.
Suspected Medicaid fraud should be reported to the attorney general's fraud hotline by calling 800-286-3932. Whistleblowers may be entitled to 10 percent of any Medicaid fraud money recovered as a result of their tip.