What is the whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act known as?

The whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act is known as "Qui tam." This provision allows individuals, often referred to as whistleblowers, to file a lawsuit on behalf of the government against entities that are suspected of committing fraud against government programs. The term “Qui tam” is derived from a Latin phrase meaning "he who brings a case on behalf of the king, as well as for himself." This legal mechanism is significant because it incentivizes private individuals to report fraudulent activities by offering them a portion of any recovered damages, thereby serving as a strong deterrent against fraudulent behavior.

This special provision encourages vigilance and accountability in government spending, making it an essential part of compliance in healthcare and other sectors where fraudulent claims can significantly impact public resources. The structure of the Qui tam provision plays a crucial role in ensuring that wrongdoing is brought to light and addressed.