Regarding the alleged coding issues, this is another mechanism to improperly recover monies under the pretext of "up-coding." Again, the government did not see merit in these allegations after extensive review and did not intervene. Treating physicians document the medical conditions of patients. Certified Medicare coders transcribe what is documented by physicians. Prime Healthcare has always put people first and determined that it was in the best interest of its patients, independent physicians, and employees to resolve this matter despite not agreeing that there was any truth to the allegations related to coding.

As is customary with these types of settlements, Prime Healthcare entered a Corporate Integrity Agreement with the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. "We are very pleased with the ultimate resolution of this lawsuit," said Joel Richlin, Prime Healthcare Deputy General Counsel. "Prime Healthcare will always support independent physicians who provide quality, compassionate care while fulfilling our mission to save hospitals, save jobs and save lives." Prime Healthcare will continue to provide services in accordance with the highest ethical, business and legal standards as it transforms hospitals across the United States. "We look forward to a strong period of growth while preserving vital community services and jobs throughout the nation," said Richlin.


Prime Healthcare is an award-winning national hospital system with 45 hospitals providing nearly 45,000 jobs in 14 states. Fifteen of the hospitals are members of the Prime Healthcare Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity. Prime Healthcare and its hospitals have been recognized as among the "100 Top Hospitals" in the nation 42 times and among the "15 Top Health Systems" three times, and Prime is the only "Top 10 Health System" west of the Mississippi.

About Prime Healthcare: Prime Healthcare is an award-winning national hospital system with 45 hospitals providing nearly 45,000 jobs in 14 states. Fifteen of the hospitals are members of the Prime Healthcare Foundation, a 501(c)3 public charity. Based in California and one of the largest hospital systems in the country, Prime Healthcare is committed to ensuring access to quality healthcare. Prime Healthcare and its hospitals have been recognized as among the "100 Top Hospitals" in the nation 42 times and among the "15 Top Health Systems" three times, and Prime is the only "10 Top Health System" west of the Mississippi.


SOURCE Prime Healthcare

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