Violations of the Stark Law could result in what type of penalties?

Violations of the Stark Law, which governs physician self-referral practices, can result in civil penalties. This law is designed to prevent physicians from making referrals for certain health services to facilities that they or their immediate family members have a financial interest in, unless specific exceptions apply.

When a violation occurs, the penalties can include significant civil monetary fines, and the offending party may also be required to pay for any overpayments received due to the improper referrals. Civil penalties can be substantial, sometimes reaching tens of thousands of dollars for each violation. Additionally, the law allows for potential exclusion from federal healthcare programs, which severely impacts a physician's ability to practice.

While there are circumstances under which criminal charges can be pursued in relation to healthcare violations, the Stark Law primarily imposes civil rather than criminal penalties. Hence, focusing on the civil penalties reflects the correct understanding of the implications of violating this specific regulation.