Minnesota Medicaid fraud mom who drained kids’ blood for money learns her fate – We Got This Covered

Convicted in June, Borders was accused of systematically drawing blood from her children when not medically necessary to submit false claims to Medicaid for expensive treatments and laboratory tests. Prosecutors revealed that she fabricated medical conditions to justify these procedures, thereby fraudulently receiving Medicaid funds meant for legitimate healthcare services.

“Borders also self-diagnosed her children with other diseases, including osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease) and forced her children to wear boots, casts, and neck braces even though they did not have any identified fractures or diagnosed injuries,” AG Ellison explained in a statement.

“Another child stated that Borders would instruct the child to vomit at the doctor even though he didn’t need to, and to cough as if he had asthma, at which time asthma medication was prescribed,” Ellison said.

The case came to light after healthcare providers noticed irregularities in the frequency and nature of the blood draws. A whistleblower within the medical facility reported suspicious patterns, prompting a thorough investigation by Minnesota’s Department of Health and Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.

An official from the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit stated that investigators uncovered clear evidence of intentional deception and exploitation of vulnerable children.

Medicaid fraud examined

Medicaid fraud remains a serious issue nationwide, costing billions in taxpayer dollars annually. Cases like Borders’ are particularly troubling because they involve the abuse of children’s health for financial gain. Experts warn that such fraud not only strains public resources but also endangers the well-being of those involved.

The Borders case has raised awareness about the need for stricter oversight and better safeguards to protect vulnerable patients and prevent similar abuses.

Borders’ sentencing sends a clear message that fraudulent exploitation of Medicaid, especially involving children, will be met with severe consequences. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Department of Health has announced plans to enhance monitoring protocols to prevent future abuses.

Attorney General Ellison concluded, of the case, “I am glad we have the tools under the law to hold Borders fully accountable, and I am exceedingly proud of the talented team from our Medicaid Fraud and Criminal Divisions that did so.” He said, “I am also very grateful for the partnership of the Crow Wing County and Stearns County Attorneys’ Offices and for the hard work of all the agencies that investigated these horrific crimes.”