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December 03, 2020

OIG Publishes Special Fraud Alert for Speaker Programs

On November 16, HHS OIG released a Special Fraud Alert highlighting the risks associated with speaker programs such as company-sponsored events about a drug, medical device, or disease. HHS OIG cautions that these speaker programs may be considered a form of remuneration that may induce or reward for referrals for or orders of items or services reimbursable by a Federal health care program, violating the Anti-Kickback Statute. To avoid noncompliance with the Anti-Kickback Statute, health care facilities should assess the need for in-person programs and weigh the risks of speaker remuneration. Ultimately, HHS OIG is urging facilities to consider “alternative less-risky means” for providing health information.