A team of NHS Counter Fraud Specialists has been out and about in East Sussex, raising awareness of their work and answering questions from NHS staff and the public.
"Fraud Awareness Month" was held during June, with staff visiting GP surgeries, dentists and pharmacies in Crowborough, Lewes and Uckfield to hand out leaflets and posters and give more information about the fraud they investigate.
A stand was also set up in the reception area of Uckfield Community Hospital.
The Counter Fraud Service is dedicated solely to the NHS and during 2009/10, over four million pounds of potential savings were made from resolved fraud investigations.
Some examples of NHS fraud include health professionals claiming sick pay whilst working elsewhere, managers or staff submitting fraudulent claims for expenses, contractors and suppliers submitting fraudulent tenders for contract and patients using false identities to acquire drugs on prescription or claim free services on the NHS.
Anyone who wishes to report suspected fraud against the NHS can use the freephone no. 0800 028 40 60 or visit the website at www.reportnhsfraud.nhs.uk. All calls can be treated anonymously.
