[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1992, Book I)]
[June 30, 1992]
[Pages 1052-1053]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Statement on Action Against Health Care Fraud

June 30, 1992
    The Federal Government took another major step today to protect our 
citizens against a type of crime which victimizes all Americans, health 
care fraud.
    More than 1,000 Federal agents and 120 other law enforcement 
officers carried out early morning raids in over 50 cities nationwide as 
part of Operation Goldpill, and we expect charges against some 200 
individuals, corporations, and pharmacies. The targets of this 
unprecedented crackdown are pharmacists, other health care 
professionals, and prescription drug distributors who are charged with 
carrying out widespread fraud through excessive billings and the illegal 
diversion, repackaging, and distribution of prescription medicine.
    These people are charged with betraying a sacred trust to their 
patients. These frauds

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result in the loss of billions from the pockets of every American who 
pays taxes and health insurance premiums. These crimes also pose 
potentially grave health hazards to patients.
    The Government also has a sacred trust to protect all Americans. 
Health care and health care fraud have long been enforcement priorities 
for the Justice Department and Department of Health and Human Services. 
Let those medical professionals and others who prey on the public take 
heed: This is only phase one of Operation Goldpill. The FBI and other 
enforcement agencies working with them are using every law enforcement 
tool in our arsenal against these serious crimes, including undercover 
agents.
    I wish to take this opportunity to congratulate Attorney General 
Barr, Health and Human Services Secretary Sullivan, the FBI, and the HHS 
Office of Inspector General for this outstanding example of the 
nationally coordinated effort. I look forward to the continued results 
of Operation Goldpill.