The U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Missouri is on the lookout for potential victims connected to a case involving a St. Louis doctor and his staff, who are implicated in illegal drug prescription and insurance fraud schemes. According to an announcement on the DOJ's website, Dr. David A. Parks, James M. Bilderback, and Michelle J. Scheer are charged with conspiring to prescribe controlled substances without any legitimate medical purpose and defrauding health care programs like Medicare and Missouri Medicaid.
The indictment points to a period between July 6, 2016, and December 31, 2021, where this conspiracy was allegedly carried out to bolster the patient base and, consequently their profits. More disturbingly, the indictment details how Parks and Bilderback would defraud healthcare providers by submitting claims falsely indicating Parks was the attending service provider - even on instances where he was abroad.
In a move to broaden the net for victim notification, on August 15, U.S. Magistrate Judge John M. Bodenhausen ordered the use of alternative victim notification procedures. This directive is aimed at ensuring that anyone who might have fallen prey to the operations of these individuals is aware of their rights and the support available to them. Those who believe they may have been victimized can call the Victim-Witness Unit at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Missouri, on (314) 539-2227 for assistance.
The implications of this case are far-reaching, as former patients and their families could still be grappling with the consequences of the illegal drug prescriptions and the fraudulent billing practices. The victim-witness program aims to provide necessary information, services, and support amid federal prosecutions. The DOJ website promises to keep the public updated with case updates as they unfold.
For those needing immediate assistance, the United Way can be contacted by dialing 2-1-1 Monday through Friday, during business hours. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) also offers a national helpline for those seeking support for behavioral health or substance use issues at 800-662-HELP (4357) — available 24/7. For mental health crises, Missouri's Crisis Hotline and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provide round-the-clock support, accessible by calling or texting 988.
