A Rhode Island-based operator of a chain of addiction treatment clinics, along with its supervisory counselor, has been charged with millions of dollars in health care fraud, aggravated identity theft, money laundering, and obstruction. Recovery Connection Centers of America Inc., CEO Michael Brier, and Mi Ok Bruining were charged with a criminal complaint of healthcare fraud. Brier also faces aggravated identity theft, money laundering, and obstruction charges.
CEO Michael Brier charged with Fraud
According to court documents, the addiction treatment chain failed to provide the required counseling sessions and treatment to patients while billing Medicare, Medicaid, and other healthcare payors for 45-minute counseling sessions, even though the sessions lasted for only 15 minutes and sometimes only 5 to 10 minutes or less.
So many counseling sessions were billed at this level that the total amount of time would have been impossible for the available therapist to have provided in any 24-hour period. As a result, the alleged scheme cheated a vulnerable population of recovery patients out of the full, genuine support and treatment they need to have a chance at recovery, according to Rhode Island United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha.
Brier wrote fraudulent prescriptions using doctors’ prescriber information without their permission
The complaint also alleges that Brier wrote fraudulent prescriptions using doctors’ names and prescriber information without their permission. Brier is also alleged to have falsified a document in a matter within the jurisdiction of an agency of the United States by causing the medical director to sign a false and back-dated document. According to the complaint, the defendants caused millions of dollars in fraudulent billings to be submitted to Medicare and millions more in fraudulent billings to other healthcare payors.
The government seeks to forfeit 13 bank accounts, two buildings, and two luxury vehicles
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation. The government seeks to forfeit 13 bank accounts, two buildings, and two luxury vehicles allegedly realized by the defendants due to the alleged criminal conduct.
Joseph R. Bonavolonta, special agent in charge of the FBI Boston Division, said the allegations represent one of the most brazen and egregious examples of healthcare fraud the FBI has seen in Rhode Island in recent history. He added that it is not a victimless crime and that everyone pays the price through higher insurance premiums, more significant out-of-pocket expenses and co-pays, and even reduced or lost benefits whenever the integrity of federal health care programs is undermined.
The Rhode Island Suboxone Clinic is working to ensure continuing care for Recovery Connection patients. Rhode Island patients needing a new Suboxone doctor or immediate bridge prescription are urged to call the RI Suboxone Clinic at 401-228-2793.
At the Rhode Island Suboxone Clinic, we commit to ensuring that patients receiving addiction treatment from Recovery Connection can continue receiving the care and support they need. It is essential that patients have access to the necessary medication and resources to prevent any lapses in their treatment.
In the wake of the recent healthcare fraud investigation involving Recovery Connection Centers of America, Inc., many individuals receiving opioid abuse treatment may be left without access to the care they need. If you or someone you know has been impacted by this fraud and needs continuing care, Rhode Island Suboxone Clinic is here to help.
Recovery Connection was operating in two locations in Rhode Island. Their locations at 381 Wickenden Street in Providence and 127 School Street in Pawtucket will be closing due to the events that transpired. However, our experienced and compassionate providers offer in-person and telehealth appointments to ensure that these individuals have access to the care they need, regardless of location, including Pawtucket and Providence. Everyone deserves access to high-quality healthcare, and we are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to all our patients.
We understand the importance of personalized care and provide various treatment options to help individuals overcome opioid addiction in a comfortable, face-to-face setting. Whether through individual therapy or group counseling, we work with each patient to develop a tailored plan for their unique needs. Our online appointments allow for flexible appointment times and confidential service, making it easy for our clients to access the care they need. Our telehealth services are designed to provide our clients with the best possible care. We are committed to providing the highest level of care to those needing assistance with addiction treatment.
If you need assistance finding a new provider or continuing your opioid abuse treatment, please don’t hesitate to call us at 401-228-2793. Our team is here to support you every step of the way. Don’t let the healthcare fraud incident prevent you from receiving the necessary care you need. Contact the Rhode Island Suboxone Clinic today.
