A spinal surgeon with offices in Kentucky and Ohio has been arrested by the Federal Bureau of Investigations on charges of making false statements in health care matters and for health care fraud. The FBI says the surgeon performed unnecessary surgeries on patients and then fraudulently billed health benefit programs, such as Medicare, for millions of dollars.
The FBI alleges that many of the patients the surgeon treated ended up with even more problems with their neck and back after the surgeries. The doctor’s attorney, however, said there are thousands of patients that his client has successfully treated.
In addition to the federal charges, there are more than 150 medical malpractice lawsuits against the surgeon. One of the plaintiffs in such a suit spoke with the local media and said that she is in constant pain after having surgery done by the defendant. She said she is not able to lift or play with her child or even drive a car. She had a lower back surgery, as well as another procedure.
Another lawyer who is defending the surgeon said his client has had his practice since 1999 and has never had a complaint of a serious nature by a hospital. The attorney went on to say his client has also never paid out any money in a malpractice lawsuit.
The surgeon is not currently in custody, but does have several restrictions. He is not allowed to leave the country without permission and had to surrender his passport. In addition, any patient of his that has an upcoming appointment must be notified in writing of the charges he is facing.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to medical negligence, you should contact a Kentucky personal injury attorney. You may be able to receive financial compensation through a civil action for pain and suffering, medical expenses, emotional distress, lost wages and other claims. Your personal injury attorney will advise you of your rights and options in such a civil case.
