What is one of the potential consequences of coding fraud?

Coding fraud can lead to serious repercussions for individuals and organizations involved in deceptive practices. Criminal penalties are a significant consequence, as coding fraud is considered a federal offense under laws such as the False Claims Act and the Anti-Kickback Statute. If found guilty of coding fraud, individuals may face fines, imprisonment, and loss of professional licenses. These penalties serve as a deterrent to ensure that valid coding practices are followed, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of healthcare reimbursement systems.

The other options do not reflect the realities of coding fraud. Activities like coding fraud inherently undermine the trust in healthcare providers and the overall quality of care patients receive, as they lead to inaccurate billing and misrepresentation of services. Additionally, fraud does not improve reimbursement methods; in fact, it can strain financial resources and lead to increased scrutiny and regulatory oversight in healthcare billing practices.