A spine surgeon has accused its former employer, Little Rock-based OrthoArkansas, of overcharging patients, among other allegations, Arkansas Business reported Sept. 16.
Wayne Bruffett, MD, who left the practice in June 2023, alleged that OrthoArkansas retaliated against him and created a hostile environment, according to the report.
According to the Arkansas Business report, the overcharging allegations are redacted in the amended complaint filed in December.
Dr. Bruffett discovered the alleged overcharges when he served on the reimbursement committee. According to the suit, OrthoArkansas used Dr. Bruffett's "due diligence" to create a hostile work condition that forced him to quit.
OrthoArkansas has denied the allegations and has asked for the case to be dismissed. It has also filed a counterclaim against Dr. Bruffett, alleging he breached contract and owes the orthopedic practice $327,450.
According to the countersuit, Dr. Bruffett was required to contribute to the practice’s overhead expenses, but he didn’t in the six months before he left, among other allegations. Dr. Bruffett has denied those allegations.
OrthoArkansas has a portfolio of nine locations, two ASCs and two urgent care clinics in Arkansas.
Becker's has reached out to OrthoArkansas and will update this story if more information becomes available.