In Dentists

California dental assistants accused of insurance fraud, identity theft

Two California dental assistants are facing multiple charges of identity theft, insurance fraud and grand theft.

Alma Almendariz is being accused of using insider knowledge to submit false insurance claims for procedures that were never performed. California's department of insurance alleges she received $10,165 from 23 fraudulent claims she submitted to AFLAC. Ms. Almendariz was booked into Kern County Jail July 8 and is scheduled for arraignment July 10.

Maria Urandy, who worked with Ms. Almendariz at the same Bakersfield, Calif.-based dental practice, was accused by the department of insurance of receiving $2,140 from AFLAC from fraudulent claims. She self-surrendered June 19 at the Kern County Superior Court and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing in August.

More articles on dental:
3 potential scenarios for the future of dental benefits
Federal agencies back SmileDirectClub in suit against Alabama dental board
ADA bestows distinguished service award on former military dentist Dr. Leo Rouse

Copyright © 2024 Becker's Healthcare. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy. Cookie Policy. Linking and Reprinting Policy.