When Cutting Corners Cuts Too Deep: A Reminder About Proper Billing and the Right Way to Grow Your Practice

The success of your practice should never come at the expense of your integrity. That’s why we’re sharing a recent—and unfortunate—reminder of how serious the consequences can be when billing procedures aren’t followed.

Recently, the Department of Justice announced that a chiropractor in Louisiana was convicted of health care fraud and unemployment insurance fraud. According to court records, Dr. Benjamin Tekippe, owner of Metairie Chiropractic & Rehab, was found guilty of billing Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana for chiropractic services that were never performed. In fact, some of the claims were submitted while he was out of town—or even behind bars. (DOJ, 2025)

Advertisement

In an effort to deceive auditors, he also instructed his staff to falsify patient records, even having them write in their own handwriting to make the notes look more authentic. If that wasn’t enough, he also fraudulently collected unemployment benefits while actively working and billing insurance. The total amount of false claims? Over $2.3 million. The consequences? Federal conviction, fines, and potential jail time.

So, what does this mean for your office?

It’s a cautionary tale that every member of your team—doctors, chiropractic assistants, and billing staff—should take to heart. There is no shortcut worth taking when it comes to proper billing, documentation, and compliance. Even honest mistakes can lead to audits and headaches, but intentional fraud can destroy careers and reputations. (David J. Goldberg, 2021)

Great chiropractic teams thrive when they invest in training and systems that ensure correct billing procedures. That means billing for services that are medically necessary and provided, documenting each visit accurately, and staying on top of payer guidelines. It also means fostering a culture where your team feels confident asking questions and double-checking procedures because you’re all accountable for the same standard.

Want to grow your practice the right way?

Your success should be sustainable and rooted in integrity. The temptation to cut corners or “fudge” documentation may seem harmless in the moment, but it can have long-lasting and devastating effects. Take this recent case as a reminder: there’s a right way to build a profitable, thriving practice.