An operator of Austin-area standalone emergency medical centers has agreed to a settlement of federal allegations that it inflated claims for COVID-19 testing and related services during the pandemic.
Federal prosecutors said the company charged the federal program more than it charged cash-paying patients for certain COVID-19 tests and improperly “upcoded” claims to receive larger reimbursements by billing for higher-level services than were actually provided during drive-through screenings.
“Those who have used or plan to use healthcare as a means to unlawfully enrich themselves should take note that the Department of Justice is actively looking for opportunities to recover stolen pandemic-era funds on behalf of the American people,” U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons said in a statement.
The company did not respond to requests for comment.
While the settlement resolves the allegations, it is not an admission of liability by Austin Emergency Center, nor a concession by the government that its claims were unfounded.
The limited liability companies named by the U.S. attorney as being involved in the settlement are Austin ER LLC, AEC ER 4 LLC, Pahala Ventures LLC, AEC Physicians PLLC and AEC Pflugerville LLC.
The company has five ER locations in Austin and one in Pflugerville. They are:
Riverside: 2020 E. Riverside Drive
Arboretum: 10407 Jollyville Road
South Lamar: 4015 S. Lamar Blvd.
Anderson Mill: 13435 U.S. 183 N.., No. 311
Mueller: 1801 E 51st St, Building H
Pflugerville: 15100 FM 1825, Pflugerville