How are investigations typically initiated by government agencies?

Investigations by government agencies are often initiated through whistleblower complaints because these complaints provide credible insider information about suspicious or fraudulent activities within an organization. Whistleblowers can offer detailed insights that are difficult to obtain through other means, making their reports particularly valuable in identifying and addressing potential healthcare fraud. Their unique position within the organization allows them to witness fraudulent actions first-hand, providing a basis for further inquiry.

While anonymous tips, routine inspections, and media reports can also lead to investigations, they might not carry the same level of detailed, actionable information typically provided by whistleblower complaints. Anonymous tips can lack sufficient credibility or details to prompt a full investigation, routine inspections may not reveal underlying issues unless they are specifically targeting suspected fraud, and media reports often highlight issues that may already be known rather than result in new investigative actions.