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Media Advisory: Nov. 20, 2008
BWC Executes Search Warrant at Office of Cincinnati Chiropractor
Bliss’ Billing Practices Focus of Investigation
COLUMBUS – The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation’s (BWC’s) special investigations department (SID)
yesterday executed a search warrant at the office of Cincinnati chiropractor Dr. Erik Bliss.
Investigators gathered evidence to assist in the ongoing workers’ compensation fraud investigation
of Dr. Bliss. Allegations of fraud include billing for services not rendered.
“Quality care for Ohio’s injured workers is paramount for BWC and provider fraud will not be
tolerated,” said Tom Wersell, director of the SID. “Fraudulent activity threatens the system of
fairness for all BWC customers. By continuing to aggressively pursue cases where fraud is suspected,
we will ensure employers, injured workers and medical providers receive the services they expect
and deserve.”
A two-year investigation into Dr. Bliss’ suspected false billing practices led to the execution of the
search warrant of the office located at 7687 Beechmont Ave. in Cincinnati. Undercover agents acting as
patients sought treatment for various conditions at Dr. Bliss’ office. In more than 50 percent of
undercover visits, Dr. Bliss charged the agents for procedures not performed. The Office of the
Attorney General of Ohio (AG) also provided assistance throughout this case and representatives
were present during the search.
In addition to these allegations, Dr. Bliss also has an outstanding balance due to BWC for a Medical
Payment Dispute Committee finding. BWC recently certified the outstanding debt to the AG’s office for
collection of $28,000.
BWC’s SID is the agency’s law enforcement section. It investigates fraud in Ohio’s workers’ compensation
system. In FY 2007, the SID closed 2,977 investigations and referred 301 people for criminal prosecution,
securing 111 indictments.
To report suspected fraud, visit www.ohiobwc.com, or call 1-800-OHIOBWC.
# # #
Maria Smith
614-728-8045 or 614-205-5709
mariasmith@bwc.state.oh.us
Melissa Vince
614-466-2956 or 614-202-2329
melissa.vince@bwc.state.oh.us
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