National Report Upcoding Fraud Day

National Report Upcoding Fraud Day is an observance dedicated to raising awareness about Medicare fraud, particularly focusing on the practice of upcoding. Upcoding occurs when healthcare providers submit incorrect billing codes to receive higher reimbursements from Medicare, leading to significant financial losses for the government and taxpayers.

Quick Facts

When is it?: August 21
Tagged as: National Report Upcoding Fraud Day
What’s the hashtag?: #ReportUpcodingFraud
When was it founded?: 2017
Who founded it?: Joel D. Hesch, a former attorney with the Department of Justice

History of National Report Upcoding Fraud Day

National Report Upcoding Fraud Day was established to empower individuals to report instances of healthcare fraud. Founded by Joel D. Hesch, who dedicated over 15 years to combating fraud at the DOJ, the initiative aims to educate the public on how to report fraudulent activities effectively. Hesch’s efforts have led to significant recoveries for the government and rewards for whistleblowers.

Timeline

1863: Congress passes the False Claims Act to combat corruption.
1965: President Lyndon Johnson signs legislation establishing Medicare and Medicaid.
2017: Joel Hesch founds National Report Upcoding Fraud Day after leaving the DOJ.
2020: Increased awareness leads to more reports of upcoding fraud.
2023: Continued advocacy results in more resources for whistleblowers.

Dates by Next Year

Year	Month	Day
2025	August 21	Thursday
2026	August 21	Friday
2027	August 21	Saturda
2028	August 21	Monday
2029	August 21	Tuesday

Observed

National Report Upcoding Fraud Day is observed across the United States, encouraging citizens to take action against healthcare fraud.

Fun Facts About

Upcoding fraud costs Medicare approximately $65 billion annually.
The day promotes a free e-book authored by Joel Hesch, detailing how to report fraud effectively.

Quiz

What is upcoding?
Who founded National Report Upcoding Fraud Day?
When is National Report Upcoding Fraud Day celebrated?

Answers:

Upcoding is the practice of submitting inaccurate billing codes to receive higher reimbursements.
Joel D. Hesch.
August 21.

FAQs

What should I do if I suspect upcoding?

You can report suspected upcoding directly to the Department of Justice or through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Are there rewards for reporting upcoding fraud?

Yes, whistleblowers can receive significant rewards for reporting fraud through proper channels.

Importance of National Report Upcoding Fraud Day

This day serves as a crucial reminder of the impact of healthcare fraud on public resources and encourages individuals to play an active role in combating it. By providing information and support, it aims to reduce fear among potential whistleblowers and promote ethical practices within healthcare systems.