Which law prohibits the exchange of money or benefits for health care referrals?

The Federal Anti-Kickback Statute is designed to prevent corruption within the healthcare system by prohibiting the exchange of money or benefits in exchange for healthcare referrals. This law aims to ensure that patient care decisions are made based on the needs of the patient rather than financial incentives. It discourages practices that may lead to over-utilization of healthcare services or the selection of providers based on profit rather than quality or necessity.

The statute applies to various healthcare entities, including hospitals, physicians, and suppliers, and violations can lead to significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment. Its primary focus is to maintain the integrity of healthcare decisions, promoting ethical practices within the industry.

In context, while the Federal False Claims Act addresses fraudulent claims submitted to governmental programs, EMTALA pertains to patient emergency care and stabilization, and the Stark Law specifically governs physician self-referral for certain healthcare services. However, it is the Federal Anti-Kickback Statute that directly addresses the exchange of monetary benefits for the purpose of referrals, making it the appropriate choice in this scenario.