Missouri officials warn medical providers of scam targeting licenses with fake drug trafficking claims

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., (KBSI) — The Missouri Division of Professional Registration is warning medical providers about a scam targeting individuals licensed with the Missouri Board of Registration for the Healing Arts.

Officials say the scam involves fraudulent documents claiming a provider’s license has been suspended due to illegal drug trafficking. The documents request payment of a government security bond through a wire transfer.

The materials appear legitimate, using official-looking letterhead, seals and stamps from the U.S. Department of Justice and the Missouri Division of Professional Registration’s Central Investigations Unit. The documents also falsely use the signature of Department of Commerce and Insurance Director Angela Nelson.

State officials advise providers to treat any unexpected notice of license suspension or payment request as suspicious.

Anyone who receives such communication is urged to stop immediately and not send payment. Providers with questions about the legitimacy of a document are encouraged to contact the board at healingarts@pr.mo.gov.

The Missouri Board of Registration for the Healing Arts is responsible for licensing physicians and other health professionals, as well as investigating complaints against licensees.