A physician from Glendale, California, has been indicted for allegedly defrauding Medicare by submitting over $45 million in fraudulent claims for Botox injections that were either unnecessary or not provided. The U.S. Justice Department (DOJ) announced the charges against Dr. Violetta Mailyan on March 14, 2024, detailing a scheme that reportedly spanned several years.
According to the DOJ, a federal grand jury has charged Mailyan with nine counts of wire fraud and three counts of obstructing a criminal investigation related to healthcare offenses. The indictment claims that Mailyan submitted false claims for Botox treatments during periods when she was traveling internationally or when her patients were not present in the United States. Notably, there were instances where claims were filed for individuals who were incarcerated at the time of the supposed treatments.
Mailyan has promoted herself as a “facial aesthetic doctor” and a board-certified physician specializing in beauty, according to her social media profiles. The allegations suggest a deliberate attempt to exploit the Medicare system, significantly undermining the integrity of healthcare services.
If convicted, Mailyan faces severe penalties, including a maximum of 20 years in prison for each wire fraud charge and up to five years for each obstruction charge. The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding fraud in the healthcare system, particularly in cosmetic procedures that can often be misrepresented.
The Justice Department’s announcement reflects a broader commitment to combating healthcare fraud and ensuring that resources are used appropriately to serve those in need. This case serves as a reminder of the potential consequences faced by those who engage in fraudulent practices within the medical field.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the implications of this case may resonate beyond Glendale, affecting public trust in healthcare professionals and the systems designed to protect patients and taxpayers alike.
