Hillsborough ophthalmology practice to pay $1.3M in false claims case

An ophthalmology practice in Hillsborough County has agreed to pay $1.3 million to settle allegations it made false claims for medically unnecessary ultrasounds.

Brandon Eye Associates — which has locations in Sun City, Brandon and Plant City — was accused of violating the False Claims Act and an analogous Florida statute arising from its billing for transcranial doppler ultrasounds (TCDs) provided through a kickback arrangement with a third party, according to a statement from the U.S. Department of Justice.

To resolve the allegations, Brandon Eye Associates will pay $1,210,245.70 to the United States and $89,754.30 to the state of Florida for its share of Medicaid, a jointly funded federal and state program. While the company has agreed to pay the settlement, there has been no determination of liability, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.