Panamanian authorities, with assistance from the United States, have secured a guilty plea from Dr. Rolando Chin. The Panamanian surgeon admitted to participating in a fraud scheme targeting the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This case involves inflated and false claims submitted to the VA's Foreign Medical Program, impacting U.S. veterans living abroad.
The Departments of Justice and State, along with the VA, uncovered systemic fraudulent actions by medical professionals and pharmacies in Panama. These include non-existent or exaggerated claims for medical services and prescriptions.
“The Department is committed to combating fraud against the United States wherever such conduct occurs,” stated Acting Assistant Attorney General Yaakov Roth of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. He highlighted the financial recovery and future savings for taxpayers, acknowledging Panama's collaboration.
In December 2022, the U.S. filed charges against nearly 40 Panama-based defendants, including medical professionals, pharmacies, and a hospital. This led to an investigation by Panamanian prosecutors, culminating in formal charges in 2023. Dr. Chin's guilty plea resulted in a restitution agreement with the U.S., while investigations and charges against others continue.
The VA responded with a suspension of the accused, starting August 2024. This action is expected to reduce the VA's Foreign Medical Program expenses in Panama by approximately $25 million for Fiscal Year 2025.
The ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Department of Justice's Office of Foreign Litigation, the VA, and the Department of State, with Christine Brennan and Kiesha Minyard leading the legal proceedings.