An Ohio physician has agreed to a settlement of $600,000 with the United States to address allegations under the False Claims Act. The allegations claim that Dr. Ronald F. Ambrosia submitted fraudulent Medicare claims involving electro-acupuncture devices.
Dr. Ambrosia, 56, is based in Powell, Ohio, and provides electrical nerve pulse stimulation services throughout the state. Between 2016 and 2018, he allegedly billed Medicare improperly for using percutaneous electrical nerve pulse stimulation devices (P-Stim Device) in an office setting. These devices are designed for chronic pain treatment and are affixed behind a patient's ear with adhesive. They deliver intermittent electrical pulses via inserted needles and are intended for single-use until their battery depletes.
The procedures were reportedly not surgical and did not involve anesthesia or occur in facilities equipped for surgery but were billed as if they were surgically implanted neurostimulators. This was contrary to guidance from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
Kelly A. Norris, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, announced the settlement. The investigation was conducted by agents from the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, with Assistant United States Attorneys Linda Mindrutiu and W. Hunter West representing the United States.
It is important to note that these claims remain allegations only, with no determination of liability established.
