Physician Who Treated 9/11 Patients Sentenced in Opioid Case

Dr. Neil K. Anand, a 48-year-old physician from Pennsylvania, has been sentenced to 14 years in federal prison. The Indian-origin doctor was convicted for his role in a multi-million dollar healthcare fraud and opioid distribution scheme. According to the US Department of Justice, Anand ran the illegal operation from his own practice.

The sentencing concludes a lengthy investigation into Anand’s medical activities. He was also ordered to pay over $4 million in restitution and forfeitures.

Unnecessary “Goody Bags” and Oxycodone Prescriptions Fueled the Scheme

Court evidence revealed Anand’s specific method. He provided patients with medically unnecessary “Goody Bags” containing prescription drugs. These bags were dispensed through his in-house pharmacies, leading to over $2.4 million in fraudulent insurance claims.

To encourage patients to accept the unwanted medications, Anand prescribed oxycodone. The powerful opioid was distributed outside the normal course of medical practice. Unlicensed medical interns often wrote these prescriptions using pre-signed forms from Anand.

Prosecutors stated he prescribed thousands of oxycodone tablets without legitimate purpose. This action directly contributed to the ongoing opioid crisis. The scheme targeted health plans including Medicare and Independence Blue Cross.

Prior Service and 9/11 Claims Contrasted with Judge’s “Greed” Ruling

Anand disputed the allegations during the trial. He and his family claimed his compassion for patients was being criminalized. Anand stated he treated victims at Ground Zero following the 9/11 attacks and served as a US Navy physician.

US District Judge Chad F. Kenney rejected this defense. The judge stated Anand was motivated by “greed and illicit profits rather than patient care.” He emphasized that for Anand, “their pain was your gain.”

After learning of the investigation, Anand attempted to hide his profits. He transferred approximately $1.2 million into an account under a relative’s name. This led to additional convictions for money laundering and unlawful monetary transactions.

The sentencing of Dr. Neil Anand highlights continued legal action against medical professionals contributing to prescription drug abuse. This case demonstrates the serious consequences of healthcare fraud.

Dropping this nugget your way

What were the specific charges against Dr. Anand?

Anand was convicted of conspiracy to commit healthcare and wire fraud, multiple counts of healthcare fraud, and money laundering. He was also found guilty of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, specifically oxycodone.

How much money was involved in the fraud?

The fraudulent claims to health plans totaled over $2.4 million. The court ordered Anand to pay more than $2 million in restitution and an additional $2 million in forfeiture.

What was the “Goody Bag” scheme?

Anand gave patients bags of unnecessary prescription medications from his own pharmacies. He then submitted false insurance claims for these bags, which were a central part of the fraud.

What was Anand’s connection to the 9/11 attacks?

Anand claimed he treated victims at Ground Zero in 2001 while he was an intern. This was part of his defense to counter the allegations against him.

How did the judge characterize Anand’s motives?

Judge Kenney stated that Anand was driven by greed, not patient care. He said the doctor turned patient pain into his own personal gain.