Dr. Oz Alleges Fraud in Los Angeles, Sparks Controversy

Recently, a video surfaced featuring Dr. Mehmet Oz, head of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, claiming significant fraud in Los Angeles’ healthcare system. Instead of looking into the fraud allegations, Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom directed attention towards what he termed “racist” claims made by Oz.

In his video, released on an Instagram account, Oz indicated that a store in Van Nuys might be involved in fraudulent activities. He stated, “Los Angeles is the epicenter of healthcare fraud in the U.S.,” asserting that around $3.5 billion in fraud, particularly in hospice and home care, is linked to the Russian-Armenian mafia.

Oz’s comments ignited backlash due to their implications against Armenian business owners, with many perceiving it as an act of racial discrimination. Newsom responded on social media, announcing that his administration would investigate Oz instead of the fraud claims. He mentioned, “We are reviewing reports that Dr. Mehmet Oz has made racist claims targeting the Armenian American community in Southern California.”

In light of the historical context, drawing from tensions surrounding the Armenian genocide, Newsom emphasized that California would not tolerate any acts of hate. Meanwhile, Dr. Oz maintained his stance, asserting that genuine solutions to California’s fraud issue must be pursued, and that CMS would continue its efforts in combating fraud.

The director of the Armenian National Committee of America expressed outrage at Oz’s remarks, denying the allegations of fraud against their community and suggesting that the claims were unwarranted.