Texas-based DaVita Rx to pay nearly $64M in billing dispute

A Texas-based pharmacy chain that specializes in patients with kidney problems will pay nearly $64 million to settle allegations of improper billing and other disputed financial practices.

Federal prosecutors in Dallas announced the agreement Thursday with DaVita Rx. The company is based in nearby Coppell (kuh-PEHL').

Authorities say the settlement resolves allegations that DaVita billed federal health care programs for prescriptions that were never shipped. Allegations were raised that the company didn't comply with requirements for documentation of proof of delivery, refill requests or patient consent.

The settlement also resolves claims that DaVita violated laws against paying kickbacks to program beneficiaries or extending unwarranted discounts.

DaVita released a statement Thursday saying it self-disclosed the allegations to the government in 2015 and 2016, and continues to embrace transparency and rigorous compliance.