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EP515: SNF (Skilled Nursing Facility) Fraud—Or Is It Fraud? With Michelle Cera, PhD

In this episode, host Stacey Richter talks with investigative reporter Michelle Serra of Hunterbrook Media about their latest deep‑dive into skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and the systemic under‑staffing that turns Medicare reimbursements into profit. The investigation reveals that large SNF chains deliberately target the sickest patients to maximize payments, then provide far fewer staff hours than required, leading to preventable deaths and severe neglect. Serra explains how the gap between needed and actual staffing translates into millions of dollars in excess profit, and how star‑rating manipulation and other “usual suspects” tactics perpetuate the problem. The discussion highlights the blurred line between aggressive business practices and outright fraud, urging employers, policymakers, and families to recognize and address these perverse incentives.