Fresenius Medical Care: Procuratorate investigated for corruption

The Frankfurt public prosecutor has commenced criminal investigations against those responsible for the medical technology manufacturer Fresenius Medical Care (FMC). It would be determined against several employees of the Dax Group in different countries as well as against people from the environment, said the authority. The prosecution did not want to comment on the exact allegations.

Based on a report from the US Securities and Exchange Commission, which documents numerous cases of bribery in the establishment of treatment centers for kidney patients. Previously, "Süddeutsche Zeitung", "NDR" and "WDR" reported on it.

Between 2007 and 2016, physicians and hospital managers in 17 countries were systematically bribed. It was therefore about the facilities of kidney stations as well as the purchase of dialysis products.

FMC is globally active in this field and one of the largest providers with nearly 4,000 treatment centers. The bribes are often disguised as commissions or consultancy fees.

In the US, FMC has settled out of court with the authorities and paid $ 231.7 million. In Germany, they also work together with the judiciary, said a company spokesman. Already in March had FMC boss Rice Powell explained that worked up the procedures and the internal rules intensified.