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    CommercializationHospital Buyer & ReimbursementAKS

    Anti-Kickback Statute

    U.S. criminal statute prohibiting remuneration to induce federal healthcare business.

    Reviewed by Christian Espinosa, Founder, Blue Goat CyberLast reviewed May 5, 2026

    Definition

    The Anti-Kickback Statute (42 USC §1320a-7b) makes it a criminal offense to knowingly offer, pay, solicit, or receive remuneration to induce or reward referrals of items or services payable by federal healthcare programs. Safe harbors define protected arrangements.

    What this means in practice

    AKS shapes nearly every MedTech commercial program - physician consulting, training grants, KOL engagement, product loans, GPO contracting. Violations carry criminal, civil, and exclusion penalties.

    Primary references

    3 sources
    Link health: 2 verified 1 needs review· last checked 2026-05-09
    HHS OIG·1MedTech Europe·1AHRMM·1
    1. 1
      OIG AKS
      Verified
      HHS OIGoig.hhs.gov
    2. 2
      MedTech Europe Code of Ethical Business Practice
      Needs review
      MedTech Europemedtecheurope.org
    3. 3
      AHRMM - Healthcare Supply Chain
      Verified
      AHRMMahrmm.org

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