State: N.J. shoe store billed Medicaid for sneakers

    State officials are seeking more than $2.5 million from a New Jersey shoe store that billed Medicaid for “orthopedic” high-top sneakers.

    The state says Shapiro’s Shoes in Camden has submitted more than 300 bills for Nike sneakers and Timberland boots that are not eligible for Medicare reimbursement.

    The store’s owner denies any wrongdoing. Her attorney, Paul Melletz, tells The Courier-Post of Cherry Hill the state’s definition for orthopedic shoes is so broad that it covers sneakers.

    The state comptroller’s office claims the store submitted improper bills of more than $36,000 between November 2006 and June 2011. The agency is seeking more than $2.5 million to cover the cost of the shoes, as well as interest and penalties.

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