Conceptualizing the impact of health care crimes on the poor

Abstract

Past research shows that a small percentage of health’s care employees commit an assortment of criminal acts while on the job. Missing from previous research, however, is an examination of the effects such acts have on the poor (i.e. the victims). This paper fills this void by considering the effects of three broadly define health care crimes: Medicaid fraud, elder abuse, and prescription fraud. In addition to the direct victimization experiences of those served by the health care system, the physical, economic, and time losses are also considered. Implications for future research and policy are provided.