Can you choose not to talk to an OIG investigator?

What triggers an OIG investigation?

The investigations process begins when OIG receives through its Hotline or other communication a complaint or allegation of fraud, waste, abuse, or other gross misconduct that affects the programs or operations of USAID, MCC, USADF, IAF, or DFC.

How much power does the Inspector General have?

Since the post-9/11 enactment of the Homeland Security Act of 2002, resulting in the amendment of the IG Act of 1978, Section 6e, most presidentially appointed IG special agents have had full law enforcement authority to carry firearms, make arrests, and execute search warrants.

How do I get off the OIG list?

How long does it take for an OIG investigation?

Other than applicable statutes of limitation in criminal cases, OIG has no internal time limits. A complicated investigation may require a substantial period of time to complete. A simple investigation may be open over a long period of time, pending availability of resources.

What does an OIG check for?

What is an OIG background check? An OIG background check is a healthcare background screening that searches the OIG exclusion list for individuals or providers barred from participation in federally funded healthcare programs.

When should you report directly to OIG?

The Allegations that should be reported to the OIG Hotline include, but are not limited to: Employee corruption, civil rights and civil liberties abuses, program fraud and financial crimes, and miscellaneous criminal and non-criminal activity associated with waste, abuse, mismanagement or misconduct affecting the ...

How long do most investigations last?

Most investigations take a few months - that is, generally speaking. If the evidence is particularly strong, police may be ready to make an arrest within days of the initial report coming in.

Are OIG reports anonymous?

Anonymity and Confidentiality

This is a law-enforcement office: if you give us your name, then your name will go in the case file. You can always request confidentiality, but we will have your name. If you want to preserve your anonymity, please do not provide your name.

Do you have to talk to investigators?

If the police have probable cause to believe you've committed a crime, they can arrest you without a warrant and then question you. However, you are not required to answer questions once arrested, as you have the right to remain silent under the Fifth Amendment and the right to legal counsel.

What is the OIG exclusion law?

Mandatory exclusions: OIG is required by law to exclude from participation in all Federal health care programs individuals and entities convicted of the following types of criminal offenses: Medicare or Medicaid fraud, as well as any other offenses related to the delivery of items or services under Medicare, Medicaid, ...

When should I contact the Inspector General?

The OIG Hotline accepts tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in Department of Health and Human Services' programs. Please submit your complaint via the OIG Hotline online form. If you prefer to contact the Hotline by phone, the telephone number is 1-800-447-8477.

What happens when an OIG investigation?

The report will be reviewed within OIG to ensure that it is fact-based, objective, and clear. It will then be provided to appropriate individuals, including management, accompanied by recommendations as warranted, so that they may consider any appropriate corrective actions based on the results of OIG's investigation.

How often should OIG be checked?

The OIG suggests checking the list at least once a month, as names are constantly being added or removed. Monthly screening can guarantee that your staff is in compliance and that your facility can continue to serve Medicaid, Medicare, and other government healthcare beneficiaries.

How do I file a complaint against OIG?

If you have a complaint to file that requires the disclosure of classified information, please call the OIG Hotline at 1-800-MIS-USED (1-800-647-8733) or contact the nearest investigative office and state that you have a complaint to file that involves classified information and ask for instructions on how to file it.

What happens if you are in an exclusion list?

Those that are excluded can receive no payment from Federal health care programs for any items or services they furnish, order, or prescribe. This includes those that provide health benefits funded directly or indirectly by the United States (other than the Federal Employees Health Benefits Plan).

Who oversees the OIG?

The Inspector General, who is appointed by the President subject to Senate confirmation, reports to the Attorney General and Congress. The OIG consists of the Immediate Office, Office of General Counsel, and six divisions. Each division is headed by an Assistant Inspector General.

What is a notice of intent to exclude?

A “Notice of Intent to Exclude” is among the most serious warnings any healthcare provider can receive. Exclusion, in this context, means a prohibition from serving federally funded patients.

Is OIG federal or state?

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) is an independent organization within the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) charged with protecting the integrity of agency programs and operations.

Who has oversight over the Social Security Administration?

The Office of the Inspector General (OIG) is directly responsible for meeting the statutory mission of promoting economy, efficiency and effectiveness in the administration of Social Security Administration (SSA) programs and operations and to prevent and detect fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in such programs ...

What powers does an Inspector General have?