- Clair is no longer authorized to submit claims in the Medicaid program since 2002. But according to the Medicaid Fraud Division, Clair hired several dentists at Harbour Dental Care, who are eligible to file Medicaid claims, to claim for him the dental services he performed. He is also accused of fraudulently billing about $130,000 for dental work between August 2003 and June 2005, since the Harbour Dental closed.
He is going to be charged of 5 counts of false Medicaid claims and three counts of larceny of more than $250.
- What about the illegally prescribing drugs? Combunox, Hydrocondone, and Percocet painkillers were allegedly prescribed by him for his staff members, who then gave some or all of the drugs back to him.
He will be facing 2 counts of illegally prescribing a Class B substance, as well as illegally prescribing Class C substance.
- Paper clips were used instead of standard stainless steel posts just so to be able to save money. Paper clips are temporarily used when performing root canal surgery, but can result to infection and pain.
He will also be charged of 2 counts of assault and battery.
Michael Clair’s history:
1999, Maryland – The state’s dental board revoked his dentistry license for performing unnecessary dental procedures between 1992 and 1998. He also encouraged other dentists to practice the same.
2001, Florida – Clair’s license to practice in the State of Florida was revoked in response to Maryland dental board’s action.
2003 – DEA or Drug Enforcement Administration cancelled his federal license in connection to his Florida license revocation.
Pending action by the Massachusetts Board of Dentistry
Dec. 2006, West Virginia – The Board of Dental Examiners cancelled Clair’s license due to the revocations in two states and pending action in Massachusetts.
How can patients safeguard themselves against such fraudulent and abusive acts?
At this point, patients need to use common sense. But Massachusetts Dental Society Assistant Executive Director Karen Rafeld gave a recommendation: Dental patients to seek second opinion before undergoing any surgery. And if looking for a new dentist, it is important to learn some background of any prospective practitioner. Ask family members and or friends of experiences and comments regarding services. This should tell whether a dentist is worth trusting. A little research will save you a lot.
Do not be limit yourselves in just one option. You will surely bump on someone who doesn’t merely look like a dentist because of wearing lab coats of medical scrubs. There are many other dentists who truly work in the true sense of their profession.
