Federal inspectors general participated in a nationwide health care fraud enforcement operation that resulted in charges against 455 defendants accused of involvement in schemes totaling more than $6.5 billion in false claims.
The Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency announced June 24 that several federal Offices of Inspector General contributed to the 2026 National Health Care Fraud Takedown. The coordinated effort also involved the Department of Justice and other federal, state and local agencies.
Authorities alleged that the schemes caused significant patient harm, though the council’s announcement did not provide details about individual cases or injuries.
The Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General played a leading role in the operation because of its jurisdiction over health care fraud and abuse. HHS inspector general investigations contributed to charges against 111 defendants in cases involving more than $6.1 billion in intended losses, according to the release.
The Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General conducted 13 investigations that resulted in charges against 18 individuals and one corporation.
Those cases involved alleged kickbacks and billing for services or equipment that were either not provided or not medically necessary. The council said the schemes caused approximately $21.4 million in losses to the VA’s Community Care Program and Civilian Health and Medical Program.
Inspector general offices from the Department of Labor, Office of Personnel Management, U.S. Postal Service and Department of War also participated in the operation, along with other law enforcement agencies.
“Combating fraud is not just a priority for Inspectors General—it is a statutory obligation at the core of our mission,” said Cheryl L. Mason, the VA inspector general and chairperson of the council.
The charges are allegations, and defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
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