Uncovering the Overuse of Vascular Procedures: A ProPublica Investigation

A ProPublica investigation has revealed that thousands of patients may be undergoing invasive vascular procedures too soon or unnecessarily, putting them at risk of complications such as amputation or death. The investigation focused on the use of a controversial procedure called atherectomy, which is being performed on patients with mild symptoms like leg pain while walking, instead of starting with less invasive treatments like medication and exercise. Medicare continues to pay doctors who exhibit this behavior millions of dollars a year, despite warnings from researchers. The investigation highlights a thriving industry of strip-mall clinics and outpatient vascular centers that exploit elderly patients for Medicare payouts.