The campaign is run by the NHS Counter Fraud Service (NHS CFS) throughout England and Wales.
The main message from NHS CFS is that anyone who suspects an NHS fraud should report it using the Fraud and Corruption Reporting Line (free phone) 0800 028 40 60.
Managing director of the NHS Counter Fraud Service, Dermid McCausland, said: “Our work has already recovered tens of millions of pounds of NHS money and led to many fraudsters being prosecuted. During Fraud Awareness Month we want to enable every honest person who works in and uses the NHS to recognise fraud and to emphasise how import it is that they report it.”
“Fraud against the NHS is not a victimless crime because these valuable funds are meant for patient care. We want to send a clear message that fraud will not be tolerated and we will vigorously pursue offenders.”
Ani-fraud culture
The NHS CFS is responsible for investigating all allegations of NHS fraud and pursuing prosecutions where appropriate, working with trusts to identify and close any system weaknesses and providing guidance for how to create a lasting anti-fraud culture.
In addition, NHS CFS also provides support for Local Counter Fraud Specialists (LCFSs), who are in place in every trust across England and Wales and whose role it is to oversee fraud-proofing measures, study financial comings and goings, raise awareness of the issues and investigate lower-value fraud.
Throughout Fraud Awareness Month, LCFSs will be organising events at health bodies throughout England and Wales, using communication tools developed by the NHS CFS, in order to educate their staff members and patients about the damaging effects of fraud and some simple ways to stop it.
Types of fraud
Types of NHS fraud and offenders vary. For example, patients may avoid paying prescription charges by falsely claiming exemptions; staff may gain employment with false documentation, or claim pay for shifts they did not work; and contractors may exaggerate or falsify records of NHS work.
NHS CFS is part of the NHS Counter Fraud and Security Management Service, which is a division of the NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA).