Dentist In North Florida Faces Investigation For Medicaid Fraud In So-Called “Tooth Fairy Heist” Scheme

According to a report from Action Jax News, a dentist in North Florida is facing an investigation for defrauding Medicaid through the so-called “Tooth Fairy Heist.” Notably, five dental clinic management  in South Florida were arrested as part of that scheme in 2022. However, those charges were dropped. No person was convicted in relation to the alleged scheme. However, Dr. Howard Fetner—a dentist in the Jacksonville area—is now under investigation. Here, our Orlando white collar criminal defense attorney provides a detailed overview of the allegations.

Background: South Florida Dental Management Company Charged With Multi-Million Fraud

The “Tooth Fairy Heist” is a name used for a health care billing fraud scheme that occurred in South Florida in 2022 involving two dental clinics and several dental management employees. Eventually, it led to five employees from a dental management company beginning to be arrested for allegedly billing for unperformed procedures. In total, prosecutors contended that the scheme resulted in more than $2 million in false billing. However, the charges against all five employees were dropped.

Dentist in North Florida Under Investigation for Possible Connection to Fraud 

Dr. Howard Fetner, a Jacksonville dentist, is under investigation as part of the “Tooth Fairy Heist” scheme. Dr. Fetner is accused of billing Medicaid for unprovided services and using billing codes of other dentists. Although charges were dropped against five other dental management workers who were previously arrested, Dr. Fetner’s role continues to be scrutinized.

For the record, legal counsel for the dentist denies any wrongdoing. He told reporters from Action Jax News that these are “allegations without merit.” Any person accused of a crime is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Every defendant has the right to raise a zealous defense. The counsel emphasizes that the allegations will be defended. 

There are Strict Regulations Regarding Medicaid Billing for Dentists 

Similar to other health care professionals, dentists must follow billing regulations—especially when billing a federal health program, such as Medicaid. Medicaid billing regulations are strict. Dentists must adhere to specific procedural codes and document all services provided to Medicaid recipients accurately. Misbilling—whether intentional or accidental—could potentially lead to major penalties, including fines, exclusion from Medicaid participation, and even criminal charges. If you are a dentist who has run into problems for alleged improper billing, it is imperative that you consult with an experienced attorney right away. A lawyer will protect your rights and your interests.

Get Help From a Florida White Collar Criminal Defense Lawyer for Dentists

At The Baez Law Firm, our Orlando white collar criminal defense attorney has the skills and experience to defend the full range of cases. We represent medical professionals, including dentists. If you or your loved one is facing a health care billing fraud investigation, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a confidential case review. With a legal office in the heart of Orlando, we represent dentists in white collar criminal cases in Orange County and throughout Florida.

Source:

actionnewsjax.com/news/local/jacksonville-dentist-under-investigation-connection-with-south-florida-tooth-fairy-heist/DPX2QD57JVF3RKLKYOPQZXAOOE/