Final answer:
The statement is false; Medicaid Fraud Control Units (MFCUs) can investigate and prosecute Medicaid fraud and patient abuse or neglect. MFCUs work alongside various law enforcement agencies and have the authority to prosecute at the state level, while the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services oversee the Medicaid program.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that Medicaid Fraud Control Units (MFCUs) are unable to prosecute medicaid fraud and must turn over all findings to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for prosecution is False. MFCUs have the authority to investigate and prosecute Medicaid fraud, as well as patient abuse or neglect in healthcare facilities. MFCUs are a key component in the effort to combat Medicaid fraud and ensure that funds are properly used for the welfare of Medicaid beneficiaries.
It is often the case that MFCUs collaborate with various law enforcement agencies, including other state and federal entities, to successfully pursue cases of Medicaid fraud or patient abuse. When a MFCU uncovers evidence of fraud or abuse, they can refer cases to the federal government, but they also have the power to prosecute such cases at the state level. The role of CMS primarily involves the administration and oversight of the Medicaid program but does not directly engage in criminal prosecutions; that is within the purview of law enforcement agencies such as MFCUs, state attorneys general offices, and the Department of Justice.