Final answer:
Healthcare providers can be held liable for false claims within their organization even without direct knowledge of the activity, as per the principles of vicarious liability. The correct answer is option a. True.
Step-by-step explanation:
True. Healthcare providers can indeed be held liable for false claims even if they were not aware of the activity within their organization. This is based on the concept of vicarious liability, where employers are responsible for the actions of their employees performed within the course of employment. This legal principle applies to ensure healthcare quality and accountability, emphasizing the importance of maintaining internal controls and compliance programs within healthcare organizations.
The subject of liability further extends to other areas such as whether hospitals should be held liable for strictly following a flawed procedure, the accountability of manufacturers for defective medical equipment, and the government's role in regulating medical practices.