LOS ANGELES (AP) - The former owner of a Southern California hospital has pleaded guilty to federal charges related to his role in a medical fraud scheme.
The Daily News reports (https://bit.ly/RSrYOV ) Michael Drobot is charged with conspiracy and paying kickbacks to other doctors in connection with a federal health care program.
The former owner of Pacific Hospital in Long Beach entered his plea Thursday. He faces 10 years in prison.
Prosecutors said Drobot paid kickbacks to doctors who referred patients to the hospital for spinal surgeries. The activities may have led to as much as $500 million worth of fraudulent claims.
The case is related to the corruption cases involving state Sen. Ron Calderon and his brother, former Assemblyman Tom Calderon. Authorities allege Ron Calderon took bribes from Drobot.
Pacific Hospital is now called College Medical Center.
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Information from: (Los Angeles) Daily News, https://www.dailynews.com
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