Which of the following would be considered a violation of anti-kickback statutes?

Offering routine waivers of co-pays can be considered a violation of anti-kickback statutes because it may be viewed as an incentive for patients to seek or continue treatment. The anti-kickback statutes aim to prevent financial arrangements that could improperly influence the referral and provision of services, potentially leading to overutilization or suboptimal patient care. Routine waivers can create a perception that the provider is trying to induce patient volume without regard to the necessity of services, undermining the integrity of the healthcare system.

In contrast, paying fair market value for office space is compliant with regulations as it ensures that financial transactions reflect appropriate market conditions and do not incentivize referrals. Providing services based on patient needs aligns with the principle of patient-centered care, prioritizing the health and welfare of the patient, which is the essence of ethical healthcare practices. Accepting Medicare benefits is standard practice for healthcare providers and does not violate any statutes, as it is part of their participation in federally funded healthcare programs.