AKRON,OH — A Medina chiropractor has pleaded guilty to defrauding Medicare and insurance companies of more than $1.8 million.
Dr. John N. Heary, 38, was accused of submitting fraudulent bills to Medicare, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Medical Mutual of Ohio and the Ohio Bureau of Worker’s Compensation, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Ohio.
Heary pleaded guilty Friday to seven counts of health care fraud. District Judge David D. Dowd Jr. allowed Heary to remain free on bond until his sentencing, scheduled for April 22.
He could receive a maximum of 10 years in prison, and he likely will lose his medical license, said U.S. Attorney’s Office spokesman Mike Tobin.
Heary was charged with 38 counts of health care fraud, nine counts of mail fraud and eight counts of paying illegal kickbacks. Tobin said 31 counts of health care fraud and all other counts were dropped as part of a plea bargain.
The attorney’s office accused Heary of providing patients with medical treatments that were unnecessary to their health or were more expensive than required.
Medicare and insurance companies reimbursed Heary more than $800,000, which he was ordered to repay, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Heary operated out of his office at 433 W. Liberty St. He last resided in Westfield Township
Source: The Medina County Gazzette