Fraud Warning:
The COVID-19 pandemic has opened up new opportunities for fraudulent activity, and mishandling of stimulus checks going to residents could be one of them. Facilities must be aware of the liability that can go hand in hand with handling sensitive items such as stimulus checks, and what federal regulations they are at risk of violating. Please read the article from CMS below to ensure residents and families know their rights, know what kind of complaints can be filed, and actions your facility must avoid.
“The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is aware of allegations that some nursing homes are seizing residents economic impact payments (or “Stimulus Checks”) authorized under the CARES Act. This practice is prohibited, and nursing homes that seize these payments from residents could be subject to federal enforcement actions, including potential termination from participation in the Medicare and Medicaid programs.”
– Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services