True or False: It is illegal under the Anti-Kickback Statute to provide free or discounted services to uninsured individuals.

The statement that it is illegal under the Anti-Kickback Statute to provide free or discounted services to uninsured individuals is false. The Anti-Kickback Statute is designed to prevent healthcare providers from profiting through improper financial relationships that could influence patient referrals or the provision of services. However, it does allow for certain exceptions.

Providing free or discounted services to uninsured individuals can be permissible under the statute as long as those services are not intended to induce referrals or generate business for the provider. This practice is often viewed as a way to support community health and ensure access to care for those who are unable to afford it. Healthcare providers may implement charity care policies or sliding scale payment structures without violating the Anti-Kickback Statute, provided they do not link such discounts or free services to referrals for services that will generate federal healthcare program payments.

This differentiation is crucial in understanding that the statute addresses financial incentives related to compensation for referrals more than the assistance provided to those in need of care.