Two Fresno physicians have agreed to pay a combined $2.4 million to resolve allegations of participating in unlawful kickback schemes tied to prescriptions for mail-order pharmacies, federal prosecutors announced Thursday in a news release.

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The settlements involve Fresno podiatrist Dr. Jagpreet Mukker and pain medicine specialist Dr. Amitabh Goswami, along with their medical corporations. U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert stated the kickback arrangements violated the Anti-Kickback Statute and the False Claims Act.

In the larger of the two agreements, Dr. Mukker and Jay Mukker, DPM Inc. will pay $1,598,891 to settle claims that they directed prescriptions for federal health care program beneficiaries to pharmacies controlled by Matthew H. Peters.

Federal investigators alleged that from 2016 to 2020, Dr. Mukker received financial payouts tied to his prescribing practices. The payouts were disguised as investment returns, prosecutors said.

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According to the settlement, Dr. Mukker acknowledged receiving up to $117,400 annually as part of a scheme in which he was rewarded with additional investment opportunities based on the volume and value of prescriptions.

The settlement also addressed separate allegations that Dr. Mukker billed Medicare for non-reimbursable peripheral venous studies under false codes. Prosecutors claim this fraudulent billing occurred from January 2017 to November 2023.

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In the second settlement, Dr. Goswami and California Pain Consultants will pay $835,000 to resolve similar allegations. Federal officials allege that Dr. Goswami participated in the same kickback scheme involving Peters’ pharmacies.

“The payment of kickbacks corrupts medical decision-making and increases the cost of health care,” Talbert said. “We will hold accountable those who pay or receive such kickbacks, ensuring they do not profit at the expense of American taxpayers and patients.”

The U.S. government has also filed a lawsuit against Peters and his associated entities, alleging violations of the False Claims Act. That case, United States v. Matthew H. Peters, et al., is ongoing.

The claims resolved by the settlements are allegations with no determination of liability, the Department of Justice said.