In Dentists

Unlicensed New York dentist convicted in $2M Medicaid fraud scheme: 5 insights

Luis Omar Vargas, an unlicensed dentist, was found guilty in a $2 million Medicaid fraud scheme, according to NJ.com.

Here are five insights:

1. At New York City-based Dental Express Broadway, Mr. Vargas recruited Medicaid patients for procedures.

2. Mr. Vargas charged each patient $25 in cash for the visit. However, he would then bill Medicaid for the dental work that was unperformed.

3. Authorities found Mr. Vargas billed more than $2 million in fraudulent Medicaid claims. The healthcare scheme went on for six years.

4. Mr. Vargas faces up to 25 years in prison. He was convicted of healthcare fraud, conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud and conspiracy to violate the federal Anti-Kickback Statute.

5. Two others were involved in Mr. Vargas' scheme, the receptionist and former licensed dentist Mehmet Dikengil, DDS. The two pleaded guilty to fraud charges.

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