GAO Report Discovers Waste in Government Programs

The Government Accountability Office released a report on March 2, 2011, which concludes that inefficiencies and duplication in Government Programs are costing taxpayers billions every year.  This report, entitled “Opportunities to Reduce Potential Duplication in Government Programs, Save Tax Dollars and Enhance Revenue,” was issued to aid lawmakers in setting the federal budget.  The report claims that 10% of all Medicare payments are either fraudulent or otherwise improper and that these payments cost the federal government roughly $48 billion.  The report goes on further to specifically call on CMS and HHS to reign in these, and other health care related costs.  Reports such as this will undoubtedly increase audit activity from CMS contractors in an already aggressive audit environment.  If you are the subject of an audit from a RAC, ZPIC, MAC or other Medicare or CMS contractor, please contact a Wachler & Associates attorney.