United States Attorney David Metcalf announced criminal charges against Hemal Patel, a resident of Bensalem, Pennsylvania. The charges are part of the Department of Justice's 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown.
Patel, aged 59, faces charges including wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and conspiracy to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute. It is alleged that Patel was involved in a scheme where she received kickbacks for referring patients to home care agencies. The fraudulent activities reportedly led to Medicaid being billed for services not provided, resulting in a loss of approximately $1,069,384.38.
According to the allegations, Patel forged doctor signatures on necessary certification forms and used individuals' personal information without their consent. These individuals were enrolled for home care services they were not eligible for while residing outside the country.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, and the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General. Assistant United States Attorney Alisa Shver is prosecuting the case.
This announcement is part of a larger law enforcement action targeting health care fraud nationwide. Charges have been brought against 324 defendants involved in schemes causing an intended loss exceeding $14.6 billion and involving over 15 million illegally diverted controlled substances pills. The operation has led to the seizure of more than $245 million in cash and assets.
U.S. Attorney Metcalf stated: “Health care fraud hurts us all, heightening the cost of services and threatening their availability to people in need.” He emphasized that his office will continue efforts to combat fraud within federal health care programs.
