Fraud is deception carried out for personal gain, usually for money. Fraud can also involve the abuse of a position of trust. By ‘NHS fraud’ we mean any fraud where the NHS is the victim. While those who commit fraud against the NHS are a small minority, their actions have a serious impact on us all. For a more detailed definition of NHS fraud, please visit the What is NHS fraud? page.
According to our latest estimate, fraud costs the NHS £1.27 billion a year.
That's enough money to pay for over 40,000 staff nurses, or to purchase over 5,000 frontline ambulances.
It is taxpayers' money that is taken away from patient care and falls into the hands of criminals.
Everyone has a part to play in fighting fraud. Being aware of the risk and remaining vigilant are the most important first steps, followed by knowing how to report fraud.
It is easy to report NHS fraud. You can call our anonymous, 24-hour reporting line on 0800 028 4060 (powered by Crimestoppers) or use our confidential online reporting form.
When the NHS loses money to fraud, we all bear the cost. Watch our animation to see examples of different types of fraud affecting the NHS, and learn how to report fraud. For more examples of NHS fraud, please visit the What is NHS fraud? page.
Subscribe to the NHSCFA's counter fraud newsletter and keep up to date with all the latest news and developments across the NHS fraud community.
Fraud costs the NHS £1.27 billion each year.
Report any suspicions or concerns about fraud against the NHS to the NHSCFA.
