DoH sets up NHS fraud hotline

The new hotline forms part of continuing action by the Directorate of Counter Fraud Services. There has already been a reduction in fraud losses of &\#163;48m since 1999, and the hotline will allow practitioners and patients to play a role in securing health service resources. Jim Gee, director of Counter Fraud Services, said: 'This represents another step in our work to protect the NHS and its resources. 'We are now equipped with secure and confidential arrangements to receive information about suspected fraud and corruption,' he said, 'so that professional, fair and objective investigations can take place, and sanctions can be applied where fraud is found.' Practitioners and patients can call 08702 400 100 between 8am and 6pm Monday to Friday. Trained specialist operators will record any suspicion of fraud occurring within or against the NHS in confidence, before passing on the details to expert counter-fraud operatives for investigation. The call centre will be able to cope with up to 500 calls a week.