False statements relating to health care matters
Official text prohibited actmental stateif conditionpenaltylegal term
(a) Whoever, in any matter involving a health care benefit program, knowingly and —
(1) falsifies, conceals, or covers up by any trick, scheme, or device a material fact; or
(2) makes any materially false, fictitious, or fraudulent statements or representations, or makes or uses any materially false writing or document knowing the same to contain any materially false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement or entry,
in connection with the delivery of or payment for health care benefits, items, or services, shall be or imprisoned not more than 5 years, or both.
(b)
As used in this section, the term "health care benefit program" has the meaning given such term in section 24(b) of this title.
History: (Added Pub. L. 104–191, title II, §244(a), Aug. 21, 1996, 110 Stat. 2017 (PDF, 25 MB).)
Simplified explanation
It is a federal crime to knowingly and willfully lie, hide important facts, or use false documents in connection with health care benefits, services, or payments under a health care benefit program.