Wyoming Counseling Clinic Executives Charged with Medicaid Fraud Over Uncovered Biofeedback Therapy
A Cheyenne, Wyoming-based counseling clinic and its leadership are facing felony charges for allegedly defrauding Medicaid out of tens of thousands of dollars by billing for biofeedback sessions not recognized under state law. The case highlights growing scrutiny of alternative therapies and the potential for abuse within public healthcare systems.
The Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Medicaid Fraud Control Unit initiated the investigation in November 2020 following initial complaints regarding the Brain Advancement Center, which opened its doors in 2019. The clinic promotes a blend of traditional counseling with holistic and alternative therapies.
Understanding Neurofeedback and Medicaid Coverage
At the center of the allegations is neurofeedback, a relatively new therapeutic technique. This method involves attaching electrodes to a patient’s scalp to monitor and, with practice, allow them to influence their brainwave activity. Proponents suggest neurofeedback can improve brain function, but crucially, it is not a covered service under Wyoming Medicaid regulations.
An early complaint received in late 2020 was deemed unsubstantiated. However, a subsequent allegation in February 2023, filed by a former employee, claimed that patients were receiving biofeedback from an individual not licensed to provide mental health services. This prompted a deeper investigation by the DCI.
Investigation Reveals Extensive Billing Irregularities
The DCI’s investigation revealed that 17 Medicaid patients received biofeedback services. Eight of those patients generated claims exceeding $1,000 each over a two-and-a-half-year period. Through statistical analysis and extrapolation, investigators estimate that Medicaid was billed between $24,000 and $30,700 for these non-covered services. The affidavit also indicated the presence of additional billing errors.
Charges Filed Against Clinic Founder and Operations Director
The State of Wyoming has formally charged Tammi Miller, the founder of the Brain Advancement Center, with conspiracy to commit Medicaid fraud, eight counts of fraud and false statements, and perjury. Investigators allege that Miller fabricated and backdated treatment plans to falsely demonstrate compliance with Medicaid requirements.
Matthew Miller, the clinic’s operations director, faces similar charges – one count of conspiracy and eight counts of fraud. A key detail in the case is that Matthew Miller is not licensed to provide mental health services in Wyoming, yet was reportedly administering the biofeedback sessions.
Both Tammi and Matthew Miller were released on $5,000 signature bonds and, as with all criminal cases, are presumed innocent until proven guilty or enter a plea.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of rigorous oversight in healthcare billing and the potential consequences of exploiting public resources.
