TRENTON, NJ – Patrick Fitchner, 51, of Orlando, Florida, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud.
According to U.S. District Judge Michael A. Shipp, Fitchner admitted that he and his co-conspirators submitted fraudulent claims to Medicare and other health benefits programs, totaling $3.6 million in fraudulently obtained reimbursements.
Fitchner and his conspirators were paid approximately $2.1 million in kickbacks for these durable medical equipment (DME) orders, causing a loss of at least $3.6 million to Medicare and other health care benefit programs.
The charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross profit or loss, whichever is greater. Sentencing is scheduled for January 9, 2024.
The case is still under active investigation, and anyone with additional information is asked to come forward.