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Richmond Spotlight: Joseph E.H. "Eric" Atkinson

Eric Atkinson represents healthcare providers in regulatory, civil and criminal litigation, with a particular focus on Medicare and Medicaid fraud and abuse. He has extensive experience regarding Department of Justice, Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and state Attorney General investigations and litigation. Drawing on a distinguished career in government service, as well as more than a decade in private practice, he is an advocate for behavioral health providers, physicians, hospitals, long term care facilities, specialty practices, home health agencies, and physical therapists in high-stakes government investigations, as well as other matters involving issues of corporate compliance, fraud and abuse, payor disputes and billing and reimbursement. He routinely assists with compliance due diligence, self-reporting and payor appeals in provider transactions.

“Medicare and Medicaid cases can be complex and all-encompassing for providers and their business,” said Mr. Atkinson, “and they carry real operational and reputational risk. When an investigation or audit hits, it can sometimes be paralyzing for clients, but with a good plan of action and the right team behind you, investigations and audits do not have to cripple your business. I’m privileged to work with an exceptional team of attorneys experienced in working closely with clients to manage the risk of an investigation and protect patient care.”

Prior to entering private practice, Mr. Atkinson served as Chief of Fraud and Corporate Neglect Investigations for the Virginia Attorney General’s Health Care Fraud and Elder Abuse Section and as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney in both the Eastern and Western Districts of Virginia, where he focused on healthcare fraud, helping shape policy and legislation to improve oversight of federally reimbursed healthcare programs. In addition to being honored by the OIG with an Exceptional Achievement Award, he has earned recognition from Virginia Business’ Legal Elite and Best Lawyers in America.

In addition to his private practice, Mr. Atkinson serves as a JAG attorney for the United States Air Force Reserve.

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