The Ohio Department of Medicaid on Friday suspended the provider agreement of fired Mount Carmel doctor William Husel because of a "credible allegation of fraud."
A department spokesperson says ordering excessive and unnecessary doses of fentanyl, a powerful painkiller, falls under the department’s definition of fraud.
While under suspension, Husel is prohibited from providing or ordering services for Medicaid consumers.
“The health and safety of all Ohioans, and the integrity of the Medicaid program, are paramount,” says a statement from the department. “As a result of the suspension the person in question is prohibited by law from serving individuals that rely on our program.”
Mount Carmel fired Husel on December 5. On Thursday, the hospital said it idenfiied 34 patients given "excessive doses" of fentanyl while under Husel's care. At least 28 patients potentially died as a result of those doses. The hospital also apologized for failing to respond immediately to concerns about Husel's conduct.
Timeline: The Mount Carmel Scandal So Far
The department referred its findings to the Ohio Attorney General's Medicaid Fraud Unit. Attorney General Dave Yost this week requested the State Medical Board immediately revoke Husel's license.
Husel will be suspended until the ODM or Attorney General’s Office determine there is not enough evidence to support the allegation, or legal proceedings are completed.
ODM sent a letter to Husel’s home yesterday. Husel can submit a request for reconsideration within 30 days.
If you are a Mount Carmel staffer who has information to share, or you believe your loved one or family member was impacted by this case, contact WOSU at paige.pfleger@wosu.org.
