Federal Fraud Raid Targets California Hospice

FBI agents, working with the Department of Health and Human Services, executed a raid at the home of a couple operating a California hospice. The raid is connected to allegations of $7 million in fraudulent activity.

Dramatic Arrest of St. Francis Palliative Care Owners

The owners of St. Francis Palliative Care were arrested at their residence by FBI SWAT teams. Authorities used loudspeakers to instruct the couple to exit the home during the operation.

Low Mortality Rate Raises Concerns

Data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) indicates that the hospice maintained a remarkably low mortality rate of just 2.3% over the past five years. This unusually low rate has drawn scrutiny from investigators.

Investigation Follows Reporting on Questionable Billing

The raids occurred after a California Post investigation uncovered a network of doctors linked to potentially fraudulent billing practices. The investigation highlighted concerns about tens of millions of dollars in questionable claims.

Doctor Linked to Numerous Hospice Facilities

Dr. Fariba Javaherian, a registered dermatologist, is associated with 63 hospice facilities across California as a medical director, attending physician, or in another capacity, according to CMS billing data. Her National Provider Identifier was used for 1,662 patients and appeared on over 6,000 claims totaling $35,816,331.

CMS Action Following Investigation

In response to the California Post’s findings, CMS revoked Dr. Javaherian’s license to bill Medicare. The agency also suspended the licenses of at least 16 hospice agencies associated with her. It is important to note that Dr. Javaherian has not been accused of any wrongdoing.