State of North Carolina Files False Claims Complaint Against DME Supplier

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina—U.S. Attorney Dena King announced the United States and the State of North Carolina have filed a complaint against durable medical equipment (DME) supplier Benson Ejindu, alleging that Ejindu knowingly submitted or caused to be submitted false claims to North Carolina Medicaid for more expensive medical supplies than were provided to the Medicaid recipients.

“Durable medical equipment providers that cause the government to pay more than it should for medical equipment and supplies waste taxpayers’ dollars and raise the cost of health care for everyone,” King said. “Our office is committed to working with the North Carolina attorney general’s office and our law enforcement partners to put a stop to improper billing practices that exploit Medicaid, a taxpayer funded program that many people depend on to cover their health care needs.”

The complaint alleged that—from at least May 19, 2017, through Aug. 23, 2019—Ejindu caused the submission of false claims to North Carolina Medicaid for high-reimbursing, specialized nutritional formula for individuals with rare, inherited metabolic disorders through a DME business he operated under different names. However, Ejindu allegedly knew the Medicaid recipients received lower reimbursing Ensure, PediaSure, Boost and Glucerna drinks.

“North Carolinians rely on Medicaid to pay for health care and medical supplies,” said Jeff Jackson, North Carolina Attorney General. “If businesses try to make an unlawful buck off of taxpayer dollars, we’ll hold them accountable. I’m grateful to U.S. Attorney King for working with us to stop health care fraud.”