What is the focus of the Anti-Kickback Statute?

The focus of the Anti-Kickback Statute is to protect against bribery and corruption in the healthcare sector. This statute makes it illegal to knowingly and willfully offer, pay, solicit, or receive any remuneration to induce or reward referrals for services or items that are reimbursable under federal healthcare programs.

The intention behind the statute is to maintain the integrity of healthcare decision-making and to ensure that patient care is not compromised by financial incentives that might lead to overutilization of services or unnecessary medical procedures. By prohibiting such practices, the Anti-Kickback Statute aims to ensure that providers make decisions based on the best interests of patients rather than financial gain, thereby fostering a more ethical healthcare environment.