BY LISA READER
Los Alamos

I recently received a check from Blue Cross/Blue Shield reimbursing me more than $4000 for orthotics purchased and fitted in Florida. I do not live in Florida. I have not been in Florida. I do not wear orthotics. BC/BS was billed more than $15,000 for the orthotics. In researching the Durable Medical Equipment firm, Zumali Inc. of Tamarac, Florida, I found that there are multiple fraud accusations against them.

BC/BS had been notified, but will not pursue legal action. Empyrean, the company that administers LANL retiree benefit programs, has been notified but did nothing but take a report. Los Alamos Police Department has been notified but will not pursue or investigate as I am “not out anything”. A report has been filed with the FBI and with the Federal Trade Commission. The most helpful folks have been the Broward County Sheriff’s Office in Florida.

No one seems interested in dealing with this WASTE FRAUD AND ABUSE. I would like to know how this company obtained my insurance information and who is cashing the checks. LANL is self-insured. They should demand that this be further investigated for the benefit of all LANL employees and retirees.

Again, watch your EOB’s