Tyler Doctor Indicted in Bribery Conspiracy

DALLAS (AP/STAFF) — The founders of and investors in a physician-owned North Dallas hospital, including a Tyler doctor, have been indicted on charges relating to what prosecutors call a massive bribery and kickback conspiracy. The indictment unsealed Thursday in Dallas accuses 21 defendants affiliated with the now-bankrupt Forest Park Medical Center. Included is Dr. Gerald Peter Foox of Tyler. They are accused of scheming to pay and receive bribes and kickbacks totaling about $50 million for patient referrals with high-reimbursement private medical insurance. A U.S. attorney’s statement says such inducements resulted in hospital billings to elite insurance plans of “well over” $500 million from 2009 to 2013. In return, it received $200 million in claim payments.

Forest Park was founded as an out-of-network hospital that could set its own prices and receive generally greater reimbursements.

The indictment also provides for the forfeiture of any property linked to the allegations.