Chiropractors in Wichita Accused of Massive $3.7 Million Fraud Scheme

Two Wichita chiropractors face indictment for a $3.7 million healthcare fraud scheme, leaving many to question the integrity of medical professionals.

At a Glance

Bradley Eck (54) and Todd Eck (58), brothers from Wichita, Kansas, have been indicted for healthcare fraud
The scheme allegedly defrauded Medicare and Tricare of over $3.7 million between 2017 and 2019
The brothers are accused of creating fake businesses, submitting false billings, and misusing a physician’s identity
Multiple federal agencies are involved in the investigation
If convicted, the brothers face severe penalties including potential prison time

Brothers Accused of Massive Healthcare Fraud

In a case that highlights the ongoing battle against healthcare fraud, two Wichita chiropractors have been indicted for orchestrating a scheme that allegedly bilked federal programs out of millions. Bradley Eck, 54, and Todd Eck, 58, stand accused of defrauding Medicare and Tricare of more than $3.7 million between 2017 and 2019. The brothers’ alleged actions have shocked the local community and raised concerns about the vulnerabilities in our healthcare system.

The indictment, handed down by a federal grand jury in Wichita on August 19, paints a picture of a complex and calculated fraud operation. The Eck brothers are accused of creating several businesses and misrepresenting ownership in documents, a tactic seemingly designed to obscure their activities from regulators and law enforcement.

Fraudulent Billing and Identity Theft

At the heart of the alleged scheme was the submission of false billing for medical services that were never provided. This practice, known as phantom billing, is a common tactic in healthcare fraud cases. However, the Eck brothers allegedly took their deception a step further by using a physician’s provider number without authorization and falsifying the physician’s electronic signature.

The charges against the Eck brothers are numerous and severe. They include conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud, false statements related to healthcare matters, healthcare fraud, aggravated identity theft, money laundering, and money laundering conspiracy. These charges reflect the breadth and depth of the alleged fraudulent activities.

Multi-Agency Investigation

The case against the Eck brothers is the result of a coordinated effort by multiple federal agencies. The U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the U.S. Department of the Treasury are all involved in the investigation. This multi-agency approach underscores the seriousness with which the federal government views healthcare fraud.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Smith is prosecuting the case, bringing the full weight of the federal justice system to bear on the alleged fraudsters. While the indictment is a significant step, it’s important to note that at this stage, it remains an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Implications for Healthcare System

This case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges facing our healthcare system. Fraud schemes like the one alleged here not only drain resources from legitimate healthcare needs but also erode public trust in medical professionals. As the case progresses, it will likely spark discussions about how to better safeguard our healthcare programs against such abuses.

As we await the outcome of this case, it’s clear that the fight against healthcare fraud remains a top priority for law enforcement. The Eck brothers’ case serves as a warning to others who might consider exploiting the system for personal gain. With multiple agencies working together and prosecutors ready to pursue charges, the message is clear: healthcare fraud will not be tolerated.