Newsom Files Civil Rights Complaint Against Dr. Oz Over Fraud Allegations
California Governor Gavin Newsom has initiated a civil rights complaint against Dr. Mehmet Oz, the head of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The complaint arises from Dr. Oz’s allegations linking Armenian Americans to health care fraud in Southern California.
Details of the Complaint
The formal complaint was filed on Thursday. Newsom accused Dr. Oz of making “baseless and racially charged allegations” in a video filmed in Los Angeles’ Van Nuys neighborhood. The video claims that around $3.5 billion in fraud has occurred in hospice and home care services in the region.
Context of Allegations
In the controversial video, Dr. Oz suggests a connection between local Armenian businesses and fraudulent activities. He claimed that a significant amount of the fraud is linked to the “Russian Armenian mafia.” This assertion was accompanied by visuals of nearby businesses displaying signs in Armenian script.
- Location: Van Nuys, Los Angeles
- Number of hospices in the area: 42
- Estimated fraud: $3.5 billion
Community Backlash
The Armenian American community has voiced strong disapproval of Dr. Oz’s remarks. Local business owners implicated in the video have vehemently denied any involvement in fraudulent activities. Reports indicate that one bakery showcased in the footage has experienced a 30% decline in sales since the video’s release.
Response from Governor Newsom
In response to the situation, Newsom’s office is reviewing complaints linked to the video, emphasizing “historic sensitivities” between the Armenian and Turkish communities. In his letter to the Department of Health and Human Services, Newsom highlighted the risks posed by racially charged public statements and called for a federal civil rights investigation.
Dr. Oz’s Defense
In a social media response, Dr. Oz reiterated his commitment to combating health care fraud. He dismissed the allegations as a distraction, asserting that he is focused on addressing fraudulent practices comprehensively.
Broader Implications
Governor Newsom contends that statements made by Dr. Oz illustrate a discriminatory motive in how investigations into alleged fraud are handled. The concern is that such public statements may deter individuals from engaging in critical health care programs.
Conclusion
The civil rights complaint against Dr. Oz spotlights ongoing concerns about fraud in health care, particularly within the Armenian community in California. As investigations progress, the situation raises questions about discrimination and the broader implications for public health programs.
