The False Claims Act (FCA) is designed to prevent fraud and protect taxpayer dollars. Across the United States, federal and state laws work to prevent abuse of public healthcare programs like Medicare and Medicaid. Yet, fraudulent activity continues. Fortunately, brave individuals known as whistleblowers step forward to report this misconduct. If you suspect healthcare fraud in Alaska or elsewhere, speak with a qualified healthcare fraud attorney to protect your rights and take action under the law.
Federal and State False Claims Laws in Alaska
Fraudulent healthcare claims are governed by both federal and state laws:
Federal Law
The United States False Claims Act (31 U.S.C. §§ 3729–3733) allows individuals to file lawsuits on behalf of the federal government when they have firsthand knowledge of fraud against programs like Medicare or Medicaid. These lawsuits are known as qui tam actions, and whistleblowers may be eligible to receive between 15 and 30 percent of funds recovered by the government.
Alaska Law
Alaska does not currently have its own version of the False Claims Act. However, Medicaid fraud is a criminal offense under Alaska Statute § 47.05.210. This statute prohibits knowingly submitting false claims to Medicaid. Violators can face civil fines, criminal charges, and loss of professional licenses.
Alaska’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) investigates these cases and refers them for prosecution when appropriate. While state law does not provide a whistleblower reward, the federal FCA still applies when federal Medicaid funds are involved.
What Is “Qui Tam”?
The term “qui tam” comes from a Latin phrase meaning “he who sues on behalf of the king as well as himself.” In modern law, a qui tam lawsuit allows an individual to file a case on behalf of the government if they witness fraud against federal programs.
These cases must meet strict procedural requirements. If successful, the whistleblower may receive a percentage of the financial recovery. To qualify for protections and rewards, always consult a healthcare fraud attorney before taking action.
Recent Healthcare Fraud Cases in Alaska
In July 2024, Dr. Claribel Tan and her husband, Daniel Tan, were indicted for allegedly submitting false claims to healthcare benefit programs, misrepresenting medications and services, and deceiving patients about treatments. They reportedly received over $10 million in fraudulent funds and evaded income taxes for multiple years. Approximately $8.5 million was seized from their accounts.
In October 2023, Dr. Ray Lynn Carlson and associates from MediCenter clinics in Kenai and Nikiski faced 23 felony charges, including fraud and theft. They allegedly overbilled Alaska Medicaid and insurance companies by submitting false billing codes between 2014 and 2019.
Regions in Alaska Where Healthcare Fraud May Occur
Fraud can happen anywhere, but certain parts of Alaska have higher risk due to healthcare volume and federal program usage:
Anchorage – The largest city and medical hub, with numerous hospitals, specialists, and behavioral health providers.
Fairbanks – Serves a large region with a mix of public and private healthcare systems.
Juneau – As the state capital, it has many state employees and public healthcare contracts.
Bethel and Rural Clinics – Remote areas and tribal facilities may face limited oversight and high dependence on Medicaid and IHS funds.
Wasilla and the Mat-Su Valley – Growing populations and expanding healthcare infrastructure have drawn federal attention to billing compliance.
What To Do If You Suspect Healthcare Fraud in Alaska
If you believe fraud is occurring in your workplace or healthcare system, here are the steps you should take:
Speak with a whistleblower attorney who is experienced in healthcare fraud cases. They will assess your claim, advise you on legal protections, and help you file under the FCA if appropriate.
Keep your suspicions confidential. Do not discuss the matter with coworkers or supervisors until you’ve secured legal guidance.
Document what you can. Save copies of emails, billing records, or internal memos that might support your claim.
Understand your rights. Even though Alaska lacks a state FCA, federal law provides protections and potential rewards for whistleblowers who expose fraud involving federal funds.
What To Do If You Suspect Healthcare Fraud in Alaska
If you believe fraud is occurring in your workplace or healthcare system, here are the steps you should take:
- Speak with a whistleblower attorney who is experienced in healthcare fraud cases. They will assess your claim, advise you on legal protections, and help you file under the FCA if appropriate.
- Keep your suspicions confidential. Do not discuss the matter with coworkers or supervisors until you’ve secured legal guidance.
- Document what you can. Save copies of emails, billing records, or internal memos that might support your claim.
- Understand your rights. Even though Alaska lacks a state FCA, federal law provides protections and potential rewards for whistleblowers who expose fraud involving federal funds.
Note: While this post is focused on Alaska, these principles apply nationwide for individuals who witness fraud in healthcare or other government-funded programs.