In what year did the GAO identify Medicare claims as high risk for fraud and abuse?

The identification of Medicare claims as high risk for fraud and abuse in 1992 by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) is significant because it underscores the longstanding concerns regarding the integrity of the Medicare program. This early acknowledgment highlighted the vulnerabilities within the system and led to heightened scrutiny and efforts aimed at combating fraud and abuse. The GAO's designation effectively initiated a series of reforms and oversight measures intended to safeguard Medicare from fraudulent activities, which have evolved over the years. Understanding this historical context is important for compliance officers, as it illustrates the ongoing challenges within healthcare programs and the importance of implementing effective compliance strategies to mitigate such risks.