Digital Health Firm and Medical Practice Indicted in $100M Adderall Scheme
A federal grand jury in San Francisco has indicted a California-based digital health company, Done Global Inc., and a Florida medical practice, Mindful Mental Wellness P.A. (MMW), for their alleged roles in a large-scale scheme to illegally distribute Adderall. This operation reportedly generated over $100 million in fraudulent revenue.
Indictment Details
The indictment includes charges for conspiracy to illegally distribute Adderall and commit health care fraud. Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti emphasized the severity of health care fraud, stating that it not only causes financial loss but can also lead to addiction and endanger public health.
Scheme Overview
Done Global operated under a subscription-based model, marketing online diagnoses and treatments for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Authorities allege that the company exploited this model to provide access to over 40 million Adderall pills.
Key Figures Involved
- Ruthia He: Founder and CEO of Done Global, previously convicted of distributing controlled substances.
- David Brody: Former clinical president of Done Global, also convicted in the case.
Allegations Against Done Global and MMW
The indictment states that the companies issued prescriptions for controlled substances without legitimate medical examination or oversight. Many members received prescriptions based solely on brief video consultations or no interaction at all.
Impact on Public Safety
Experts warn that such actions compromise patient safety and trust in healthcare systems. Deputy Inspector General for Investigations, Christian J. Schrank, described the operation as a blatant abuse of federal programs aimed at enriching the defendants unlawfully.
Prosecution Efforts
This case is part of a wider initiative by the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program, which has charged over 5,800 defendants since its inception in 2007, with offenders billed for more than $30 billion. The strike force comprises designated teams across various federal districts.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The legal proceedings against Done Global and MMW underscore the authorities’ commitment to combat health care fraud. Patients affected by these practices are encouraged to seek new healthcare providers and to be aware of the risks associated with obtaining prescriptions outside legal channels.
For ongoing updates on this case and additional resources on health care fraud prevention, individuals can refer to El-Balad’s justice section.
