21 Indicted in Defunct Forest Park Kickback Scheme. Surgeons and health care executives associated with the now-bankrupt Forest Park Medical Center chain of luxury hospitals were indicted Thursday for allegedly participating in an illegal kickback scheme. Over four years, the chain, which catered to patients with private insurance, paid about $40 million in kickbacks and bribes for patient referrals, and collected more than $200 million in paid claims. For more context, read D CEO Senior Editor Matt Goodman’s piece on the collapse of the five-hospital chain.
Decision Due Today in Dallas Police and Fire Pension Lawsuit. A solution for the troubled Dallas Police and Fire Pension Fund depends on the ruling, which State District Judge Ken Molberg is expected to give today. The fund loses $3.3 million every month that a vote to make changes is delayed, the fund’s executive director testified during a four-hour hearing yesterday.
Eleven Straight. It was close, but the Cowboys held on against the Minnesota Vikings last night for a 17-15 win. Dez Bryant stepped up, catching the go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter as well as four passes for 84 yards.
John Tesar Finds His Way Back to Top Chef. The first episode of the fourteenth season aired last night, but I’m not going to spoil it here. For the duration of Tesar’s tenure on the show, Alice Laussade will bring her colorful observations to SideDish each Friday. Look for her first post later this morning.
