Dr. Michele Hollis, was dropped from her schedule at two hospitals because she refused to engage in “fraudulent billing practices”. The ER doctor, who worked at HCA hospitals for 25 years, reported misuse of federal funds within her hospital group. She now is suing, seeking $15 million in damages.

Dr. Hollis claims that she was targeted after pushing back against a practice that involved “upcharging” services as “critical” when they didn’t meet the medical coding criteria. This kind of billing serves the interests of hospital administrators and corporate partners, rather than prioritizing patient care. She also cites being penalized for not prescribing costly medication contrary to her medical training.

“Their goal is to get a chart that they can bill for as much as they can bill. Period,” Hollis said. “And they’re willing to do that however they can get that done.”

It’s time for hospital leadership and the broader healthcare system to address these systemic issues. Better Solutions remains committed to advocating for patients over profit care and exposing hospitals’ continued unethical practices.