How we detect and prevent fraud
The overwhelming majority of patients and professionals would not dream of stealing from the NHS, but a small minority of patients, suppliers and health service staff do just that. Every time they commit fraud, patient care suffers. The law abiding public have the right to expect the NHS to safeguard public funds.
Fraudulent activity within the health service takes many forms. Often it is relatively low value and opportunistic. Sometimes, it is high value and committed by skilled criminals.
Patient fraud includes wrongful claiming of exemption from fees, alteration of prescriptions and more recently, using aliases to obtain controlled drugs.
The NHS Counter Fraud Authority (NHSCFA) is a special health authority charged with identifying, investigating and preventing fraudulent activity and other economic crime within the NHS and the wider health group. It replaces its predecessor NHS Protect, which was part of the NHS Business Services Authority.
Not acting against fraudulent activity, can undermine the reputation, integrity and professionalism of the NHS and perceptions about the quality of the services it provides leading to a loss in public confidence. Success in combating these crimes depends on the co-operation and involvement of both patients and staff at all levels within the NHS.
NHS Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care Board (ICB) also has its own Counter Fraud Specialist (CFS). To discuss any concerns or to report a suspicion regarding NHS fraud, contact Sarah Kabirat, our Counter Fraud Specialist on 07500 294136 or email: sarah.kabirat@uk.gt.com
You can also report any suspicious activity to by telephone on 0800 028 40 60 or online at www.reportnhsfraud.nhs.uk
More information about fraudulent activity, bribery and corruption can be found on the NHS BSA website.