Roberto A. Fernández, owner of Latin Health Fund in Coral Gables, has been arrested for his alleged involvement in a large-scale Medicare fraud scheme and illegal drug distribution. Federal authorities accuse Fernández of orchestrating a conspiracy that involved fraudulent Medicare claims, kickback schemes, and the unlawful distribution of prescription drugs, leading to an estimated $20 million in losses to the Medicare program.
Scope of the Fraud Scheme
According to investigators, Fernández was part of an extensive network that operated through multiple healthcare facilities. The scheme allegedly involved submitting fraudulent claims for medically unnecessary goods and services while illegally distributing prescription drugs. Prosecutors revealed that Fernández and his associates leveraged their businesses, including Calan Pharmacy, Elite Home Services, and Star Light Health Care Agency, to facilitate these illegal activities.
Several of Fernández’s co-conspirators have already been convicted and sentenced:
- Niurka Fernández (Calan Pharmacy & Elite Home Services) – 10 years
- Arturo Alberto Oms (Calan Pharmacy) – 8 years
- Jesús Díaz (Star Light Health Care Agency) – 9 years
- Jorge Caballero – 3 years, 4 months
Criminal Charges and Legal Ramifications
Fernández faces multiple charges, including:
- Mail fraud
- Conspiracy to defraud the United States
- Fraudulent distribution of healthcare goods (11 counts)
- Illegal kickback payments
- Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
- Two counts of distributing controlled substances
Authorities say that illegal kickbacks were funneled through shell companies and fake transactions, allowing the defendants to profit at the expense of taxpayers. The fraudulent claims also contributed to rising healthcare costs and diverted resources away from patients in genuine need.
Wider Crackdowns on Healthcare Fraud and Criminal Networks
This case is part of a broader federal crackdown on healthcare fraud and organized crime, as seen in recent efforts targeting Medicare fraud schemes (source) and other criminal operations in Miami and Coral Gables (source). Law enforcement agencies continue to investigate similar networks engaging in fraudulent practices.
The Need for Stronger Oversight in Healthcare
Healthcare fraud remains a growing concern in the U.S., with fraudulent schemes costing billions of dollars annually. Authorities stress the importance of stricter regulations, increased monitoring, and harsher penalties for those exploiting the system.
As the legal proceedings against Fernández move forward, federal prosecutors remain committed to holding all involved accountable and recovering stolen funds. His arrest serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and regulatory enforcement to safeguard public resources.
