A home health care provider based in the St. Louis area has agreed to pay $534,475 to resolve allegations that it submitted false claims to Medicaid, according to an announcement from U.S. Attorney Thomas C. Albus.
Deer Valley Home Health Services LLC (DVHH) is accused of submitting improper claims between October 1, 2022, and May 31, 2023. The claims were made on behalf of a person who initially worked as a contractor before becoming an employee at DVHH. According to government allegations, this individual exaggerated his educational background and reported providing more than 24 hours of service in a single day. He claimed to have delivered applied behavior analysis therapy, including assessments and treatment plans for individuals with behavioral or developmental conditions, but was not qualified for these services.
The employee left DVHH around May 2023. The company disclosed concerns about his conduct in July 2023 and cooperated with the investigation. DVHH denies prior knowledge that the employee was submitting false claims.
“Today’s settlement underscores a commitment to holding providers accountable for submitting false information and fraudulent claims to the Medicaid program,” said Linda T. Hanley, Special Agent in Charge with the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG, alongside our law enforcement partners, will continue to protect taxpayer funds and ensure patients receive legitimate services from properly licensed individuals.”
The case was investigated by HHS-OIG and the Missouri Attorney General’s Office Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Suzanne Moore handled the case.
