medvance institute lawsuit for false advertising
TRANSCRIPT
IN THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT IN AND FOR PALM BEACH COUNTY, FLORIDA
DONESIA BEST, GUERLANDE EXANTUS, DIANA MEDINA, TERI DOLECKI, DIANA MEYER, & LINDA O'NEILL,
Plaintiffs, v.
Case No.: __________ _
EDUCATION AFFILIATES INC., a Maryland corporation d/b/a MedVance Institute, & KIMC INVESTMENTS, INC., a Maryland corporation d/b/a MedVance Institute,
Defendants.
--------------------------~/
COMPLAINT
Plaintiffs Donesia Best, Guerlande Exantus, Diana Medina, Teri Dolecki, Diana Meyer,
and Linda O'Neill, sue Defendants, Education Affiliates Inc., and KIMC Investments, Inc., both
doing business as MedVance Institute ("MedVance"), for breach of contract, breach of the
covenant of good faith and fair dealing, fraud in the inducement, fraudulent misrepresentation,
and for violating laws prohibiting misleading advertising, Fla. Stat. § 817.41, and unfair and
deceptive trade practices, Fla. Stat. § 501.204.
Introduction
1. This lawsuit concerns a private, for-profit educational facility, MedVance, which
diligently and fraudulently recruits students to attend its campuses in Florida and elsewhere.
MedVance's goal is matriculation of students, not education. The more students who emoll and
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matriculate, the higher the profits for MedVance. In order to convince students to enroll,
MedVance recruiters make false statements regarding the quality of education, graduates'
preparedness to pass certification exams, the costs of education, the ease of repaying federal
loans, and most important to Plaintiffs, job prospects upon graduation.
2. As a recipient and beneficiary of state and federal funds and loan guarantees,
MedVance has a vested interest in enrolling as many students as possible, no matter their
qualifications or interests. MedVance was and still is under scrutiny by the Governrnent
Accountability Office and Congress because of its business practices. The GAO cited
MedVance on August 4,2010 for "encouraging fraudulent practices" and for making "deceptive
or otherwise questionable statements." See Exhibit A. MedVance is part of the burgeoning
phenomenon of for-profit private career colleges, which "have grown in enrollment from
365,000 students to nearly two million over the past several years ... [and whose 1 students
borrowed more than $20 billion in federal loans last year." See id Although only about 12% of
American post-secondary students attend these colleges, those students represent 43% of 2008
student loans in default. See id
3. MedVance victimizes its students. Plaintiffs, who were enticed by promises of a
better life, left MedVance with little more than an insurmountable debt burden. Instead of
learning the skills required to succeed in the fields of Medical Office Administration and
Medical Coding and Billing, Plaintiffs were subjected to out-of-control classes taught by
disinterested and unqualified instructors. Instead of educational extemships capable of
enhancing professional development, Plaintiffs were placed with employers who assigned menial
tasks. Instead of sound financial advice, MedVance's financial department rushed Plaintiffs
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through the loan application process, simply assuring them not to worry about a major life
decision. MedVance is solely focused on the bottom line, to the detriment of its students.
Parties, Jurisdiction, Venue Etc.
4. Plaintiff Donesia Best, a current resident of Palm Beach County, Florida, attended
MedVance Institute's West Palm Beach campus from 2009 to 2010.
5. Plaintiff Guerlande Exantus, a current resident of Palm Beach County, Florida,
attended MedVance Institute's West Palm Beach campus from 2009 to 2010.
6. Plaintiff Diana Medina, a current resident of Palm Beach County, Florida,
attended MedVance Institute's West Palm Beach campus from 2009 to 2010.
7. Plaintiff Teri Dolecki, a current resident of Martin County, Florida, attended
MedVance Institute's Stuart campus from 2008 to 2009.
8. Plaintiff Diana Meyer, a current resident of St. Lucie County, Florida, attended
MedVance Institute's Staurt campus from 2008 to 2009.
9. Plaintiff Linda O'Neill, a current resident of Palm Beach County, Florida,
attended MedVance Institute's Stuart campus from 2008 to 2009.
10. Defendant Education Affiliates Inc. is a Maryland corporation that owns several
private career colleges in Florida doing business under the name, "MedVance Institute."
Education Affiliates purchased MedVance Institute from KlMC Investments, Inc. in December
2009. All Plaintiffs attended Defendants' Stuart or West Palm Beach campuses.
11. Defendant KIMC Investments, Inc. is a Maryland corporation that owned several
private career colleges in Florida doing business under the name, "MedVance Institute." KIMC
Investments, Inc. sold MedVance Institute to Education Affiliates Inc. in December 2009. All
Plaintiffs attended Defendants' Stuart or West Palm Beach campuses.
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12. Jurisdiction is proper pursuant to Fla. Stat. § 26.012 because this is an action at
law in excess of$15,000.
13. Venue is proper pursuant to Fla. Stat. § 47.041 because actions on several causes
of action may be brought in any county where any of the causes of action arose. Most causes of
action accrued in Palm Beach County, Florida.
Facts Common to All Counts
14. Plaintiffs were convinced to enroll because of promises that they could start a
successful career in an in-demand occupational field. Oral representations aside, even
MedVance's informational literature makes unrealistic forecasts and assurances. MedVance tells
recruits that it is "dedicated to preparing qualified candidates for careers in the medical field and
has been doing so for decades." See Exhibit B. It also claims that classes are taught by "highly
trained professionals." See id. It boasts that students learn on-the-job training at "a variety of
medical settings." See id The Medical Office Administration program information guide states:
"Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to seek entry-level positions in
healthcare facilities ... With strong skills sets in office technology, office management and
customer service, the graduate will possess the knowledge and be positioned to work within the
team dynamic required in healthcare administration today." See id. The Medical Billing and
Coding program information guide similarly states: "The Medical Billing & Coding Specialist
program prepares students to analyze medical records and assign codes to medical conditions,
diagnoses and procedures . . . Graduates find entry-level employment opportunities in
physician's offices, billing offices, hospitals .... " See id Plaintiffs were also orally guaranteed
jobs upon completion of their respective programs by recruiters.
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15. In reality, MedVance does not prepare its students for certification exams and
employment in a turbulent and competitive job market. Plaintiffs were hastily pushed through
the filling out of federal loan paperwork, and in many cases, MedVance prepared the paperwork
for Plaintiffs. Instead of carefully counseling its students on the pros and cons of incurring debt,
the financial aid department sought only the minimum information required to fill out federal
loan documents. Across the board, MedVance's Career Services Office did little to connect
students with worthwhile job opportunities. In hindsight, Plaintiffs see their time and money
spent at MedVance as wasted. And at the end of the day, even if Plaintiffs do not receive the
training promised, MedVance remains the beneficiary of substantial federal-backed student
loans.
Donesia Best
16. Donesia Best was enrolled in the Medical Office Administration night program at
MedVance's West Palm Beach campus between October 2009 and June 2010. She graduated
with a 3.85 GPA. Ms. Best received some financial aid but incurred federal student loan debt of
about $11,500. She was attracted to MedVance by the promise that, after graduation, she would
be hired for a full time position with benefits. After expressing skepticism at filling out loan
paperwork given her financial position and the inability to pay a routine $25 filing fee, a recruiter
told her, "between you and me, there's a $25 fee and I will front it if you do not tell anyone."
MedVance Recruiters and financial aid personnel had no interest in Ms. Best's ability to repay
her loan and simply assured her that she would find a job in her field after graduation. They
hastily procured her personal information so that they could fill out loan paperwork on her
behalf. After filling out the paperwork, MedVance employees told Ms. Best to write down the
names and addresses of friends who might also be interested in enrolling. Ms. Best recalled that
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instructors lacked effort and in a highly technical transcription class that required textbooks,
weeks went by without textbooks as the instructor simply passed the time.
17. During her studies, MedVance's Career Services Office told Ms. Best they would
help her with her resume, but they simply added a line for MedVance institute and sent it back to
her. They sent her on 2 "interviews": one consisted of dropping a resume in a pile at a nearby
job fair; the other was at a doctor's office, where she was told that she did not have requisite
experience. Ms. Best knows of one peer out of approximately 100 in the Medical Office
Administration Program who found gainful employment. After MedVance, she enrolled at
Broward College as a general studies major seeking to satisfy prerequisites to be a registered
nurse. Broward does not recognize the credits she earned, at a hefty rate, at MedVance. Ms.
Best currently works part time at Publix and considers her graduation from MedVance and the
experience in general as "worthless."
Guerlande Exantus
18. Ouerlande Exantus was enrolled in the Medical Office Administration night
program at MedVance's West Palm Beach campus between November 2009 and August 2010.
Ms. Exantus graduated with about a 3.5 OPA. She incurred federal loan debt split between
subsidized and unsubsidized loans totaling approximately $11,000. She became involved with
MedVance when they called her directly and promised a great education and further
employment. MedVance's financial aid department hastily completed Ms. Exantus' loan
paperwork and their Career Services Office did nothing to help her find a job or even an
internship.
19. When she asked for assistance, the Career Services Office told Ms. Exantus that
she was "on her own" and urged her to go to various medical offices to ask if they were hiring.
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Ms. Exantus used to be a customer relations employee and has been out of work for over four
years. She has stated that her debts are piling up and that MedVance was a major waste of time
and money.
Diana Medina
20. Diana Medina was enrolled in the Medical Office Administration night program
at MedVance's West Palm Beach campus between November 2009 and August 2010. Ms.
Medina completed her studies with a perfect 4.0 GP A. She paid approximately $3,000 out-of-
pocket in tuition and incurred federal student loan debt of about $9,000. Ms. Medina found
MedVance while searching online and was attracted by the opportunity to attend night classes
and better her job prospects. She contacted MedVance's West Palm Beach campus and was
assured by recruiter Norma Jimenez that she would definitely get a job as a medical office
manager nearby upon graduation. MedVance's financial aid department told Ms. Medina that
they would take care of the loan paperwork and that she would not have to worry about it until
she got a job. During class, Ms. Medina recalls that answers to tests were spoon-fed to students
and that when she asked for clarification of a difficult subject, instructors would tell her to just
read the book. Instructors were woefully unqualified and would often ramble about their
personal lives or gossip, instead ofthoughtfully teaching the subject matter.
21. Since completing her studies, Ms. Medina has received no help finding a job from
MedVance's Career Services Office. Ms. Medina, who attended the University of Florida,
considers her education at MedVance worthless and omits the experience from her resume. She
has stated that, "you are basically paying for a piece of paper that says, I graduated here, and I
still have no experience." She currently works at Publix but is actively seeking employment in
the Medical Office Administration field.
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Teri Dolecki
22. Teri Dolecki was enrolled in the Medical Coding and Billing night program at
MedVance's Stuart campus between August 2008 and July 2009. Ms. Dolecki graduated with a
perfect 4.0 GPA. She incurred federal student loan debt of about $15,000. Ms. Dolecki saw a
commercial on TV and went on MedVance's website, where she was attracted by representations
that the medical coding and billing fields were in high demand. Ms. Dolecki, who had been out
of school for 30 years and whose husband had recently passed away, was interested in the
prospect of going from "classroom to career in a year." She was recruited by MedVance's
Tamara Stephens who promised her that the program was perfect for middle-aged individuals,
that she could work part time from home after graduation, that jobs in the field were in demand,
and that MedVance would prepare her for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) examination.
The financial aid department hastily processed her paperwork and told her it would be easy to
payoff loan debt. To entice her, they refunded a $300 enrollment fee. Recruiters and financial
aid employees neglected to inform her that maintaining a license in the field costs about $200 a
year. Ms. Dolecki was one of the many students who signed up for the new 4-week curriculum,
whereby MedVance would teach subjects in four, rather than six weeks. This new curriculum
hurts students and teachers, who must speed through the material; it helps MedVance, which is
able to recruit and sign up more students per year. During her extemship, Ms. Dolecki was
placed at Martin Memorial Hospital and Treasure Coast Surgical Center. At these placements,
she received some coding experience, but spent most of her time xeroxing reports, copying
papers, stuffing envelopes and answering phones.
23. Ms. Dolecki took and passed the CPC exam and upon information and belief, was
the only student in her program to do so. She recalled that reading the textbook was more useful
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than MedV ance' s exam prep classes, which consisted of crossword puzzles. See Exhibit C. Ms
Dolecki accepts the possibility that her 25 years experience in medical transcription and
terminology helped prepare her for the exam more than MedVance did. After certification and
graduation, MedVance's Career Services Office put her in contact with employers who only
wanted her to answer phone calls; they did not put her in touch with any potential part time
coding employers, despite initial promises. Highly motivated, Ms. Dolecki offered to volunteer
at medical offices to learn more about coding, but employers told her that she lacks the requisite
experience. MedVance never told her during recruitment and enrollment that almost all medical
coding and billing employers are only seeking certified employees with at least two years
experience in the field. She is currently living off of her pension and actively seeking a coding
job, which she has been unable to attain, despite her 4.0 OPA and passage of the CPC exam. Ms.
Dolecki has stated that she was "proud of herself for having the courage to go back to school, but
it was all a waste."
Diana Meyer
24. Diana Meyer was enrolled in the Medical Coding and Billing night program at
MedVance's Stuart campus between August 2008 and July 2009. Ms. Meyer attended classes
but left after her extemship and did not graduate. Ms. Meyer paid for MedVance by incurring
federal loan debt of about $11,500 and Pell grants of about $5,000. MedVance recruiter Tamara
Stephens promised Ms. Meyer, who has 20 years of accounting experience, a job that paid
approximately $50,000 upon graduation and passage of the CPC Exam. Ms. Stephens told Ms.
Meyer that MedVance was accredited and that passage of the exam would be a virtual certainty
after a MedVance education. After Ms. Meyer told Ms. Stephens that she wanted to speak with
her husband before filling out loan paperwork and enrolling, Ms. Stephens pressured her to
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emoll by stressing that if she did not sign up right then, she would have to wait months or a year
to fill a spot in another program. MedVance's financial aid department told Ms. Meyer that
paying the loans off would not pose a problem and that other MedVance graduates easily paid
off the debt. Ms. Meyer was placed at a 32-hour-a-week extemship for no pay with All
American Physicians LLC in Port St. Lucie. Although given the opportunity to do some medical
coding, her supervisor was not qualified and failed to give her guidance or teach her more about
the field. After the extemship, Ms. Meyer left MedVance when the instructors gave her and her
peers crossword puzzles and word searches in order to prepare for the intensive CPC exam. See
Exhibit C. According to Ms. Meyer, instructors were not qualified and one in particular had not
even passed the CPC exam. She recalls that much of the classroom teaching directly conflicted
with the textbook and caused confusion for students.
25. Ms. Meyer, like over 90% of her classmates, eventually failed the CPC exam and
was not properly prepared by MedVance, despite their promises. She is currently unemployed
and has no prospects finding employment in the medical coding or billing fields.
Linda O'Neill
26. Linda O'Neill was enrolled in the Medical Coding and Billing night program at
MedVance's Stuart campus between October 2008 and September 2009. Ms. O'Neill graduated
with a perfect 4.0 GP A. She incurred federal loan debt of about $15,000. Ms. O'Neill has stated
that she was "sucked in" by a recruiter who stated that "most girls" get a job that pays about
$40,000 after graduation. She recalls that during orientation, new students wore nametags that
said, "Future Biller or Coder." She was rushed through the loan application process and was not
told to carefully consider the implications of incurring substantial debt. Ms. O'Neill remembers
that instructors were unqualified and textbooks needed to be updated. During her unpaid
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extemship at an eye doctor's office, she folded letters, stuffed and stamped envelopes and
completed other menial tasks unrelated to forging contacts and developing professionally in the
medical billing or coding fields. She has stated that she "did her time," in order to receive
extemship credit, a requirement to graduate.
27. Ms. O'Neill did not pass the CPC exam and has stated that MedVance did not
properly prepare her for it because classes were rushed and students were made to complete
crossword puzzles and word searches. During classes and after graduation, MedVance's Career
Services Office did nothing to help her find a job anywhere within 30 miles of Jupiter, where she
lives. Ms. O'Neill currently works at a small cleaning business, lives with her family and has no
prospects finding a job related to her studies at MedVance despite her best efforts.
COUNT I - Breach of Contract
28. Plaintiffs incorporate paragraphs 1-27.
29. The Plaintiffs entered into a binding contract with MedVance. MedVance's
literature assures that students "have made a commitment to us and to their future and we in tum,
have a commitment to help them realize it." In statements by recruiters and literature provided,
MedVance offered Plaintiffs a quality education that would, at a minimum, give a realistic
chance of employment after graduation. Plaintiffs accepted this offer, with consideration in the
form of incurring thousands of dollars of federal-backed student loans, and the expenditure of
time and effort.
30. Plaintiffs fully performed their obligations under the agreement by paying tuition
and making a good faith effort to attend classes, externship placements, and pursue available
employment avenues.
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31. Defendants breached the education contract by failing to provide a quality
education in the fields of Medical Coding or Billing and Medical Office Administration.
MedVance fell woefully short of making good on their many oral and written promises that good
jobs were attainable after earning a MedVance degree. For example, students in the Medical
Coding and Billing program were told that a MedVance education would prepare them for the
CPC exam. It did not. MedVance also breached the agreement by failing to connect Plaintiffs
with area employers.
32. Plaintiffs were damaged as a result of Defendants' breach of the agreement in the
form of being burdened with heavy loan debt without leaming necessary skills, forging important
contacts, or obtaining jobs with area employers. They are entitled to expectation damages,
which include both incidental and consequential damages for Defendants' breach.
COUNT II - Breach of Good Faith and Fair Dealing
33. Plaintiffs incorporate paragraphs 1 - 27.
34. As an educational institution entering into contracts with its students whereby
students give money and the institution gives education and a path to employment, a fiduciary
relationship was created between Plaintiffs and MedVance. In every contract, there is an implied
covenant of good faith and fair dealing.
35. MedVance was obligated to not take action which would deprive Plaintiffs of
their benefits arising from the contract and had to, in good faith, execute its contractual duties.
36. MedVance breached their duties by baiting students to enter into the education
contract by using deceptive recruiting practices. For example, recruiters told Plaintiffs that loans
would be easy to repay since jobs were in high demand and that MedVance provided the tools
and connections necessary to surely secure employment.
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37. MedVance also breached their duties by offering classes and placing Plaintiffs in
extemships that did not further professional development in the Medical Office Administration
and Medical Coding and Billing fields.
38. Plaintiffs have been damaged by MedVance's breach of duties arising from the
contract. They owe Plaintiffs damages proximately resulting from this breach.
COUNT III - Fraud in the Inducement
39. Plaintiffs incorporate paragraphs 1-27.
40. MedVance's recruiters and financial aid personnel made numerous
misrepresentations of material fact to Plaintiffs in order to procure enrollment. For example,
they informed Plaintiffs that they would obtain employment upon graduation and that because of
this employment, loans would easily be paid off.
41. Specifically, Plaintiff Best was told that she could easily find a full time job with
benefits upon graduation. When expressing uncertainty about taking out a loan, she was told,
"we are sure that you will find a job, the field is in demand, so do not worry about it."
42. Plaintiff Exantus was falsely promised employment contacts during her education
andjob opportunities after her education by MedVance recruiters.
43. Plaintiff Medina was assured by recruiter Norma Jimenez that she would
definitely get a job as a medical office manager nearby upon graduation. She was told by
financial aid personnel to take out a loan because "you will not have to worry about it until after
graduation, when you have ajob."
44. Plaintiff Dolecki was recruited by MedVance's Tamara Stephens, who promised
her that the program was perfect for middle-aged individuals, that she could work part time from
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home after graduation, that jobs in the field were in demand, and that MedVance would prepare
her for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) examination.
45. Plaintiff Meyer was promised by MedVance recruiter Tamara Stephens that ajob
paying approximately $50,000 a year was awaiting after graduation. Ms. Stephens told Ms.
Meyer that passage of the exam would be a virtual certainty after a MedVance education.
Financial aid personnel told Ms. Meyer that it would be "easy" to payoff loan debt.
46. Plaintiff O'Neill was told by a recruiter that most graduates acquire a job paying
about $40,000 a year after graduation. The recruiter told Ms. O'Neill MedVance success stories
about graduates attaining high-paying jobs and promotions with the opportunity to travel.
47. The GAO cited MedVance on August 4, 2010 for "encouraging fraudulent
practices" and for making "deceptive or otherwise questionable statements."
48. MedVance personnel knew, or should have known, the falsity of these statements.
Through their difficulties placing students at worthwhile extemships, awareness of loan default
rates, and operation of a marginally effective Career Services Office, MedVance knew that their
representations were false.
49. MedVance intended that their false representations would induce Plaintiffs to rely
and act. MedVance intended to, and achieved their goal of, having Plaintiffs fill out loan
paperwork and incur substantial debt in order to emoll and attend classes.
50. Plaintiffs, through expenditures of time and money, suffered injury in justifiable
reliance on MedVance's false representations.
COUNT IV - Fraudulent Misrepresentation
51. Plaintiffs incorporate paragraphs 1 - 27.
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52. Plaintiffs Meyer, Dolecki and O'Neill, were entolled in the Medical Billing and
Coding program, which required them to complete an offsite extemship in order to graduate and
sit for the certification exam.
53. In order to keep these Plaintiffs emolled, MedVance made false statements that
they would get on-the-job training, forge important employment contacts, and would learn more
about the field through hands-on experience via the extemship program.
54. Defendants, unable to place so many students at worthwhile extemships or find
eventual employment for its students, knew that these statements were false when they were
made.
55. These misrepresentations were made with the intent to induce Plaintiffs to act, in
the form of staying emolled and being responsible for tuition.
56. Aside from being unable to ultimately find jobs, Plaintiffs were damaged by their
reliance on these misrepresentations by being effectively forced to complete menial tasks with
little or no bearing to the Medical Coding and Billing field. Plaintiffs also incurred loan debt in
reliance on these misrepresentations.
COUNT V - Misleading Advertising
57. Plaintiffs incorporate paragraphs I - 27.
58. According to Fla. Stat. § 817.41, which provides for a private cause of action,
misleading advertising is prohibited. Misleading advertising is defined at Fla. Stat. § 817.40(5).1
I "The phrase 'misleading advertising' includes any statements made, or disseminated, in oral, written, or printed form or otherwise, to or before the public, or any portion thereof, which are known, or though the exercise of reasonable care or investigation could or might have been ascertained, to be untrue or misleading, and which are or were so made or disseminated with the intent or purpose, either directly or indirectly, of selling or disposing of real or personal property, services of any nature whatever, professional or otherwise, or to induce the public to enter into any obligation relating to such property or services."
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59. To further their sale of services and to encourage students to enroll, MedVance
advertised, both in print and with the use of recruiters. Brochures suggest that MedVance
graduates "will be able to seek entry-level positions in healthcare facilities ... With strong skills
sets in office technology, office management and customer service, the graduate will possess the
knowledge and be positioned to work within the team dynamic required in healthcare
administration today." See Exhibit B. More directly, recruiters told Plaintiffs that securing solid
jobs after graduation was a virtual certainty. Financial aid employees told Plaintiffs that paying
back student loans would be easy. After all, they would eventually be gainfully employed
according to MedVance personnel. These statements, as well as other representations by
MedVance discussed herein, are known, or through the exercise of reasonable care or
investigation could or might have been ascertained, to be untrue or misleading.
60. These statements were made for the purpose of selling services, namely,
educational services.
61. Plaintiffs relied on these false statements and advertising strategies to their
detriment, by incurring loan debt and attending classes and extemships that were, in effect,
worthless.
62. Defendant's false advertising practices were the proximate case of Plaintiffs'
injuries; were it not for MedVance's assurances and advertisements, Plaintiffs would not have
enrolled. In other words, had MedVance truthfully communicated Plaintiffs true job prospects
and the actual implications of applying for hefty federal loans, Plaintiffs would not have enrolled
at MedVance.
COUNT VI - Unfair or Deceptive Trade Practices
63. Plaintiffs incorporate paragraphs 1 - 27.
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64. Fla. Stat. § 501.204 provides for a private cause of action for those harmed by
"[u]nfair methods of competition, unconscionable acts or practices, and unfair or deceptive acts
or practices in the conduct of any trade or commerce .... "
65. MedVance, a for-profit private college, is engaged in the trade and commerce of
emolling students and collecting tuition payments.
66. Student recruitment is a vital aspect of MedVance's form of trade and commerce,
and their methods of recruitment are deceptive and unfair. The experiences of the individual
Plaintiffs have been confirmed by reports from govermnent and media. See Exhibit A.
Essentially, MedVance promised results that they knew were not forthcoming in order to make
money at Plaintiffs' expense.
67. MedVance's unfair and deceptive trade practices caused Plaintiffs to emoll, incur
federal loan debt, expend time and effort, and not pursue other opportunities.
68. Plaintiffs suffered damages as a result of MedVance's unfair and deceptive trade
practices. All Plaintiffs have had no success securing employment in their respective fields and
are currently burdened with crippling student loan debt.
Demand for Jury Trial
Plaintiffs demand a trial by jury on all issues so triable.
Prayer for Relief
Plaintiffs pray that this Court enter judgment in their favor against Education Affiliates
Inc. and KIMC Investments, Inc., both d/b/a MedVance Institute and award Plaintiffs:
A. Compensatory damages equal to the amount of money paid in tuition;
B. Compensatory damages equal to the amount of interest and fees paid or payable to
Plaintiffs' student loan lenders;
17 SARELSON LAW FIRM, PA, 1401 Brickell Avenue, Suite 510, Miami, Florida 33131, 305-379-0305, 800-421-9954 (fa.",)
www.FloridaConsumcrLawyerBlog.com www.Sarc1son.com
C. Attorneys' fees where applicable by statute;
D. Pre- and post-judgment interest;
E. Costs;
F. All other relief, both in law and in equity, this Court deems appropriate.
18
Fla. BarNo. 888281 Max M. Nelson, Esq. Fla. Bar No. Pending SARELSON LAW FIRM, P.A. 1401 Brickell Avenue, Suite 510 Miami, Florida 33131 305-379-0305 800-421-9954 (fax) [email protected] [email protected]
SARELSON LAW FIRM, PA, 1401 Brickell Avenue, Suite 510, Miami, Florida 33131, 305-379-0305, 800-421-9954 (fa. ... ) www.FloridaConsumerLawyerBlog.com
www.Sarelsoo.com
GAO: 15 for-profit colleges used deceptive recruiting tactics Page 1 of2
CiJbe tutt9btngton $109t
GAO: 15 for-profit colleges used deceptive recruiti l1gtactics ...................................................................................... .
Washington Post Staff Writer By Daniel de Vise and Paul Kane Thursday, August 5, 2010 Congressional officials on Wednesday identified IS for-profit colleges where recruiters allegedly encouraged investigators posing as prospective students to commit fraud on [mancial aid applications or misled them about such matters as tuition costs and potential salaries after graduation.
The Government Accountability Office's findings, presented to a congressional committee along with grainy video clips captured by hidden cameras, may ampliry federal scrutiny of the fastest-growing highereducation sector.
Many ofthe largest for-profit entities were named among the 15 sites targeted by GAO investigators: University of Phoenix, with more than 400,000 students; Argosy University, part of the 136,000-student Education Management Corp.; Kaplan College, part of the 119,000-student Kaplan Higher Education operation owned by The Washington Post Co.; and Everest College, part of the llO,OOO-student Corinthian Colleges.
Also named: Westech College in California, Bennett Career Institute and Potomac College in the District, MedVance Institute in Florida, College of Office Technology in Illinois, Anthem Institute in Pennsylvania, and Westwood College and AT! Career Training in
Texas. Kaplan, Everest and Phoenix each were cited twice, for different campuses.
Four ofthe colleges -- Westech, MedVance, Anthem and Westwood -- "encouraged fraudulent practices" in meetings with undercover investigators, the report says. All IS "made deceptive or otherwise questionable statements. "
At a morning Senate hearing, some of the most powerful revelations came in a brief video presentation, spliced together from hidden-camera feeds.
Attendees watched as a MedVance admissions officer told an applicant he needn't worry about loading up student debt: "It's not like a car note -- if you don't pay it, they won't come after you."
A Texas admissions officer tells an applicant
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GAO: 15 for-profit colleges used deceptive recruiting tactics
GAO: 15 for-profit colleges used deceptive ... ~~~rlJiti':-tg .. t.~ .. ~ti~~ ................................ .
not to report his savings on a loan application: "They don't need to know how much cash you have."
And a Florida recruiter quips to a reluctant applicant, "What are you really afraid of?" and then rips up his application.
Leaders of industry giants Phoenix, Kaplan and Corinthian all announced internal investigations in response to the fmdings.
In a joint statement, Donald E. Graham, chairman and chief executive of The W ashington Post Co., and Andrew S. Rosen, chairman and chief executive of Kaplan Inc., described the tactics revealed in the videotaped interviews as "sickening."
"They violate in every way the principles on which Kaplan is run," they said in a statement posted on The Washington Post Co.'s Web site. "The GAO and the Senate [Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee] have done us a favor. We will do everything in our power to eliminate such conduct from Kaplan's education institutions. "
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For-Profit Colleges Seeking Loans 'Rob' Students, Senate Testimony to Say - Bloomberg Page 1 of 4
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For-Profit Colleges Seeking Loans 'Rob' Students, Senate Testimony to Say By John Lauerman - Sep 30, 2010 10:00 AM ET
Recommend, : 1 : Tweet {2) Linkedln Share Email Print
For-profit colleges leave students with high debt and inadequate educations that can harm them
for years after they graduate or quit school, witnesses are scheduled to testify today at a Senate
hearing in Washington.
Recruiters enticed Danielle Johnson, a mother from Iowa, to enroll in Washington Post CO.'s
Kaplan education unit, saying she could train at home to be a nurse, a claim that turned out to be
untrue, she said in testimony prepared for today's Senate Health, Education, Labor & Pensions
Committee hearing. Kaplan refused to release her transcripts, preventing her from transferring
into a cheaper community college, she said.
While working students must have access to programs that fit their schedules and training
requirements, they also need protection from the predatory recruiting programs and lending
fraud uncovered by a government probe of education companies, said Arnold Mitchem,
president of the Council for Opportunity in Education, in prepared comments for the hearing.
"Access is critical, but access to what?" Mitchem said in the prepared testimony. "Mountains of
debt?"
For-profit colleges represent about 12 percent of U.S. college students, according to the
Association of Private Sector Colleges and Universities, a Washington-based industry group
formerly called the Career College Association. Those students account for about a quarter of
U.S. student loan dollars, said Lauren Asher, president of the Institute for College Access and
Success, an advocacy group based in Oakland, California, in comments prepared for the hearing.
'Severe' Consequences
About 43 percent of all former students who defaulted by 2010 on loans they began paying offin
2008 were from for-profit colleges, Asher said. The consequences of those defaults are "severe
and long-lasting," she said in her remarks.
"You will likely be hounded by collectors, and your debt will increase significantly because of
default and collection fees," Asher said in her prepared comments. ''You cannot get federal
grants or loans to return to school, and the debt can follow you until you die. There is no statute
of limitations, and the government can garnish your wages, seize your tax refunds, and
eventually take a slice of your Social Security check."
For-profit colleges have helped improve the lives of many students who earlier failed at
traditional, nonprofit universities, said Harris Miller, president and chief executive officer of the
for-profit colleges' trade group.
'Anecdote Game'
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htlp:llwww.bloomberg.comlnews/20 1 0-09-30/for-profit-colleges-seeking-loans-rob-stude... 10/12/2010
For-Profit Colleges Seeking Loans 'Rob' Students, Senate Testimony to Say - Bloomberg Page 2 of4
"We can all play the anecdote game," Miller said in a telephone interview before the hearing
began. "We have plenty of students who would be glad to tell the committee how OUf schools
have turned their lives around."
About 1,500 students, teachers and administrators rallied in front of the U.S. Capitol building
yesterday to oppose proposed industry regulations that would force for-profit colleges to show
that graduates are repaying their loans and make enough to afford repayment.
"All State does a great job of preparing you to present yourself for ajob," said Sarah Martin, 22, a
student at All State Career School in Baltimore who rode to Washington on one of six buses the
college sent to the rally.
"It's up to you to take advantage of the situation," Martin said.
For-profit colleges have come under fire since a government report released Aug. 4 found that
recruiters at 15 colleges misled students to boost enrollment. Senator T0111 Harkin, the Iowa
Democrat who heads the education committee, said he plans to hold another hearing the first
week in December. Harkin said he will release information at today's hearing collected from
education companies.
No Degree
"The companies get the profits, and the students get the debt," Harkin said in a telephone
interview before the hearing. "And many times they don't even get a degree."
Deceptive marketing has hurt low-income, minority students across the U.S., Mitchem said in
his prepared testimony. Mitchem's group submitted a list of stories from students who said they
had been misled by recruiters and administrators.
D'angelo Walker, a former student at Hoffman Estates, Illinois-based Career Education Corp.'s
Sanford-Brown College whose story was included in the submission, said his degree failed to
help him get a job, and other colleges won't accept the credits he earned.
Starting Over
"I feel like I've been robbed," Walker said in the testimony. "Every school is telling me that 1 will
have to start over."
Almost half of the students at for-profit colleges are minorities and about two-thirds of the
schools' students have incomes below the median for all undergraduates, Asher said. These
students are three times as likely to borrow to pay for their education as those attending
nonprofit colleges, Asher said.
"The data clearly show that across levels of income and categories of racejethnicity, for-profit
college students borrow more than those who attend elsewhere," she said in her testimony.
Kathleen A. Bittel, who works in Education Management Corp.'s Art Institute of Pittsburgh
online divi~ion, al~o is scheduled to testify at the hearing. The company assembled deceptive
career-placement data by counting entry-level jobs at Toys "R" Us, Starbucks and a convenience
store as related to students' degrees, Bittel said in a letter to Congress obtained by Bloomberg
News. The company investigated Bittel's claims and determined they were unfounded,
Education Management said yesterday in a statement.
Education Secretary Arne Duncan said in August that he will beef up his department's
enforcement ann to help stamp out predatory recruitment practices. The Education Department
is preparing to publish rules that strengthen sanctions for recruiters who mislead applicants,
and require for-profit colleges to tell students how many students graduate and get placed in
jobs.
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For-Profit Colleges Seeking Loans 'Rob' Students, Senate Testimony to Say - Bloomberg Page 3 of4
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http://www.bloomberg.comlnews/20 1 0-09-30/for-profit-colleges-seeking-loans-rob-stude... 10/12/2010
[!MedVance --lll:SI'I'r(!Tf~--
2009· MedVance Institute Overview·. Palm Springs -Campus
A Vision For The Future A Commitment To Excellence
MedVartce Institute is dedicated to preparing qualified candidates for careers in the medical field and has been doing so for decades. .
·.Achieve your educational goals in a supportive environment • Choose from a variety of medical training programs • Complete your medical career training in 7 to 24 months • Enjoy the convenience of day, afternoon, and evening class schedules • Experience the benefit of small classes and hands-on learning • Gain valuable real world experience through externships • Learn from qualified instructors who are highly trained professionals
Graduates work in a variety of medical settings including hospitals, laboratories, physicians' offices, long-term care facilities, home· health care businesses, radiology and surgical centers, cancer treatment facilities, insurance
companies, and other medical businesses.
MedVance Institute has campuses in many states offering Certificate, Diploma, Occupational Associate Degree, Associate In Occupational Studies, and Associate of Applied Science Degree Programs .
Our Purpose: Innovatively Creating Opportunities ... IT'S PERSONAL
At MedVance lnstihlte, INNOVATION is the key to our success. What we do, healthcarc career training, is highly regulated and standardized throughout our industry. However, how we do what we do is up to us. What does that
mean? It means we have the ability to create an experience that is extraordinary and will keep our customers talking about us long after graduation. Innovation is key to unlocking that extraordinary experience. Innovation means
thinking differently about something familiar. H's about going beyond the ordinary and creating something better.
CREATING OPPORTUNITIES is our core purpose. Every day we create opportunities for our customers, our communities and ourselves. Opportunities can take many foims. Just remember that for every obstacle ... there is an
. opportunity waiting to be discovered.
IT'S PERSONAL describes how we fulfill our purpose. We are accountable for ensuring our .customers receive a personal, friendly and supportive educational experience. We do not want them to feel like just another number.
They have made a commitment to us and to their future and we in turn, have a commitment to help ·them realize it. IT'S PERSONAL also serves a dual purpose and is an acronym for our values.
www.medvance.edu This catalog was prepared by McdVnncc Institute. Curriculum, tuition, fccs,-cxpcnscs, academic requirements, etc. arc subject to change at the discretion o'fthe
SchooL Information contained in this catalog is true and accurate to the best knowledge of the School's Administration.
Overview Palm Springs 49 © 2009 MedVance Institute. All rights reserved.
2009 Academic Programs .- Palm Springs Campus
Medical Office Administration
Diploma Program monthsJ36 ,:"e~ks .~.x..~!.u_~!!1g
PROGRAM OBJECTIVE The program is designed to provide students with the multidimensional skill sets required to excel in administrative roles today~ Students learn the basics of communications in healthcare which include medical tenninology, computers and practice management. Students also learn to navigate and manage databases, client infonnation, and the laws and ethics related to client data management. -This course also provides training to students in transcription, billing & coding, human resources, de;sktop publishing, records management and infonuatics, skills in business communications, accounting and the critical importance of strong customer service.
Upop completion of this program, graduates will be able to seek entry-level positions in healthcare facilities or other industries in an administrative support capacity, working in areas such as front office, admissions, client -relations~ office revenue, unit coordination, healthcare services administration and out-patient facilities offices. With strong skill sets in office technology, office- ma'nagement and customer service, the graduate will possess the knowledge and be positioned to work within the team dynamic required in healthcare administration today.
. PROGRAM OUTLINE
Course # Course Title Qtr Cr.ditl Clock Hours
AHCl40 HealthCare Facilities & Business 4.0/40 Infrastructure
MAS!03 Medical Office Procedures 6.0/80
MCSl05 Introduction to ICD-9 & CPT 3.0/40 Coding
COMIOI* Communications 4.0/40
OADl20 Computerized Accounting & 6.0/80 Fiscal Management
810117 Medical Terminology 4.0/40
OADIIO Word Processing 6.0/80
OADl30 Records Management & Unit 3.0/40
47
r5MedVance --\III~TII'\;'flt--
OADlOO
OAD140
OADl50
OADl60
TOTALS
Coordination
Keyboarding Skill Building & 2.0/40 10-Key Desktop Publishing 6.0/80
Transcription 5.-0/80
Human Resources 6.0/80
Qtr Credit Hours/ Clock Hours 55.0/720
• denotes general
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
AHC140 Healthcare Facmtie~ & Business Infrastructure 4.0QH .In this course. students y.till learn the ethical expectations of all individuals working in healthcare regardless of their role. Students will develop reasonable expectations of the range of client reactions in the sensitive healthcare environment, as well as the appropriate response level that healthcare workers reasonably display. Students are trained in healthcare law related to patient information, HIPPA, safety and compliance with applicable local, -county, state and federal rules and regulations. This COurse includes instruction in Basic First Aid _including Bloodborne/Airborne Pathogens. 40 lecture ,hours. Prerequisite: None.
MASI03 Medical Office Procedures 6.0 QH Students will learn the primary duties performed in the medical office by the medical manager including compiling office policies and procedures, patient registration-, human resource functions, appointment scheduling, patient billing, medical insurance and basic coding. Students' will apply a practical approach to understanding these medical office procedures. Students also learn the fundamental principles of computer technology including computer concepts, tenninology and applications. 40 lecture hours/40 laboratory hours. Prerequisite: None.
MCSl05 Introduction to ICD-9 & CPT Coding 3.0 QH Students learn the theory and practice of coding medical services, supplies and equipment using the CPT manual. Shldents leam the technique for locating frequently used tenus in the manual index. Students also study' the ICD-9-CM systems and acquire an overview of the use of ICD-9 coding. 20 lecntre hours/20 laboratory hours. Prerequisite: None.
*COMlOl Communications 4.0QH Students will learn the concepts of adaptation and critical thinking in verbal and written communication. Upon successful completion of this course, students will demonstrate confidence and credibility in communicating in a range of communication situations. 40 lecture hours. PrerequiSite: None.
OAD120 Computerized Accounting & Fiscal Management 6.0 Q H This course includes an overview of basic mathematical skills including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals, and solving word problems. Students also learn foundational skills involving management of money including banking"interest, checkbook maintenance and reconciliation of bank accounts. Simple procedures for accurately maintaining a petty cash fund, as well as costs and ordering office supplies are covered. Snldents will learn basic bOOkkeeping and accounting principles in a fiscal cycle using manual forms, as well as fonnatting & calculating
1 :
: II II
II i) I I I i I \ i :
. ,
2009 Academic Programs· Palm Springs Campus
MEDICAL BILLING & CODING SPECIALIST Diploma Program
PROGRAM OBJECTIVE The Medical Billing & Coding 'Specialist program prepares students to analyze medical records and asstgn codes to medical conditions, diagnoses and procedures using a complex healthcare coding and classification system. Accurate codes are essential for research, statistical data and for detennining reimbursement of health care services.
Students build knowledge and skill in CPT (Common Procedural Terminology) and ICD-9 and lCD-l0 (International Classification of Diseases, 9,th & 10th Editions) coding as well as commonly used medical billing and medical record software systems. A strong foundation in the biosciences, medical law and ethics and career readiness provide a balanced education, preparing graduates to work effectively in the medical environment.
Graduates t!nd entry-level cmploymcnt opportunities in physician's offices, billing offices, hospitals, assisted living facilities, clinics, insurance companies, medical financial consulting practices and private, practice. Graduates are able to sit for the AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders) and AHIMA (American Health Infonnation Management Association) Professional Coder certification examinations.
PROGRAM OUTLINE
Course # Course Title Qtr Creditl Clock Hrs
AHCl40 Hcalthcare Facilities,& Business 4.0/40 Infrastructure
AHCI47 Professional Development 4.0/80
AHC235 Career Development 2.0/40
Br0102' Anulurny & Phy~iology If 4.0/40
BrOIl3' /\ nat<Jrny & Physiology II 4.0140
MAS 103 lvkdical OffIce Procedmes 60/80
MCS105 Introduction to fCD-9 & CPT 3.0/40 C'o ... ting
44
eMedVance __ t,'i't'T\l'l f n' __
"''''''~I·''''"'''''''('c'",,,,n,.l",,'1-
MCSI07 Basic Insurance~ Delinquent Claims, & CoUections
MCSI09 Radiology, P9-thology & Medicine Coding'
MCSlll Anesthesia Coding, Pharmacy Coding & HCPCS
MCSll2 Evaluation & Management Coding & Modifiers
MCSl23 Surgery Coding
MCSl24 Insurance Verification. Claim Denials & Appeals
MCSl25 -Insurance Regulations & MedicarefMedicaid
MCSl75 ICD-9 & lCD-to Coding
MCSI85 Computerized Practice ManageIl}ent
MCSl86 Hospital Billing
MCSl88 Electronic Medical Records
MCS225 Medical Billing & Coding Extemship
TOTAL Qtr Credit HoursJClock Hours
*Denotes General Education course
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
ACHl40 Healtncare Facilities & Business J nfrastructure
4.0/40
3.0/40
3.0/40
3.0/40
6.0/80
3.0/40
3.0/40
5.0/80
3.0/40
3.0/40
2.0/40
4.0/128
69.0/1008
4.0QH In this course, students \"ill learn the ethicat expectations of all ;ndividual~ working in he_althcare regardless of their role. StUdents will develop reasonable expectations of the range of client reactions in the s~llsili\'~ hca!thcarc environment, as \vcll tbe appropriate response level that healthcare '\vorkers reasonably' display. Students arc trained in heal theme law related to patient infotlllation, HlPPA. safety and compHance with applicable locaL county, state and. tcd~ra! fuks and r(;gu\ations. This course include.s IllstrlLction III Basi...: Firsl Aid including Bloodbomc!,t\irborne Pathogens. 40 Iccnlf0 hours. Prerequisite: None:.
AHC147 Professional Development 4.0 QH This course is CH) orientation to the world or work Professional business protocol, professional presence: and a cllstotncr-firsL attitude arc explored and discussed. Student") learn tll develop a standard of excellence and pride in work and _address ethics. trust, respect.
. strategic thinking, and leadership. Students \viH also gain skills in. time management, stress lnanagemeti.t, goal setting, communicating, presenting ideas and concepts as well as thinking critically and creatively. 25 .lecture hours!55 laboratoty hours. Pr'erequisitc: None
AHC235 Career Development t.O QH Students karn to prepare for the job search including researching prospective employers,_ performing self a~sessment evaluations, composing effective resumes, and developing techniques for successfhl interviews. Students also review for certifications. This course includes instruction in Basic First Aid including use of an AED, Adult, Child, and Infant CPR and Bloodbome/Airbome Pathogens. 10 leelme hours/30 laboratory hours. Prerequisite: None
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Name __________ _ Date (Key # 1 - 601846)
Use the clue to figure out the word. Write the word and find the word in the word search puzzle.
1. type care provided in the ER; doesn't matter if the patient is new or established
Write the word: ________ _
found ___ time(s) in the puzzle
2. Prior authorization from a payer that must be received before elective hospital-based or outpatient surgeries are covered; also preauthorization or authorization.
Write the word:
found ___ time(s) in the puzzle
3. closure of a blood vessel
Write the word: ________ _
found ___ time(s) in the puzzle
4. one who has been formally admitted to a health care facility
Write the word:
found ___ time(s) in the puzzle
5. the physician with the pr;manj responsibility for care ofthe patient
Write the word: _-, ______ _
found ___ time( s) in the puzzle
6. surgical or perQ procedure in a vessel to dilate vessel openings; used to treat arteriosclerosis disease
Write the word: __________ _
found ___ time(s) in the puzzle
7. The total of the costs ofal! supplies that are customarily used to provide the service; items included in the routine charge should not be billed separately.
Write the word: _____________ _
found ___ time(s) in the puzzle
8. suffix meaning to release or free
Write the word: ____ _
found ___ iime(s) in the puzzle
9. Characteristic sign or symptom of a disease.
Write the word: ____________ _
found ___ time( s) in the puzzle
10. nothing by mouth
Write the word: __ _
found ___ time( s) in the puzzle
11. the organ system relating to lungs, nose and sinuses
Write the word: __________ _
found ___ time(s) in the puzzle
12. procedure for viewing interior or the body using x-rays and projecting it onto a TV screen
Write the word: __________ _
found ___ time(s) in the puzzle
• Name ____________________ __
13. lying on the back
Write the word: _____ _
found ______ time(s) in the puzzle
14. removal of total lung
Write the word: ____________ _
found ____ time(s) in the puzzle
15. farther from the point of attachment or origin
Write the word: _____ _
found ___ time(s) in the puzzle
16. type of patient who has not received services within the past 3 years
Write the word: __ _
found ___ time(s) in the puzzle
17. Tablet placed in the mouth between cheek and gum for absorption
Write the word:
found ___ time(s) in the puzzle
18. removal of fluid from thoracic cavity
Write the word: ____________ _
found ___ -time(s) in the puzzle
Date (Key # 1 - 601846)
19. Payment criterion of payers that requires medical treatments to be appropriate and provided in accordance with generally accepted standards of medical practice.
Write the word:
found ___ time(s) in the puzzle
20. before meals
Write the word:
found ____ time(s) in the puzzle
21. removal of blockage from the vessels
Write the word: __________ _
found ___ time(s) in the puzzle
22. surgical immobilization of a joint
Write the word: __________ _
found ___ time( s) in the puzzle
23. Fee for services other than room and board provided during a patient's hospitalization, such as anesthesia, pharmacy, supplies, and therapies.
Write the word:
found ___ time(s) in the puzzle
24. application of force to a limb
Write the word: _______ _
found ___ time(s) in the puzzle
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Name
25. radiographic recording of the sinus or sinus tract
Write the word: _________ _
found time( s) in the puzzle
26. chamber in lower part of the heart
Write the word: ________ _
found ___ time(s) in the puzzle
27. scientific calculation of radiation emitted from various radioactive sources
Write the word: ________ _
found ___ time(s) in the puzzle
28. small pinpoint hemorrhages
Write the word: ________ _
found ___ time(s) in the puzzle
29. Medication prescribed to kill or remove the causative agent of a disease
Write the word: _______ _
found ___ time(s) in the puzzle
30. after meals
Write the word:
found ___ time(s) in the puzzle
Date (Key # 1 - 601846)
• Answer Key: Key # 1 - 601846
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