Blog

Employment lawyers often play a critical role in helping employees raise concerns safely and effectively. Whistleblower claims can arise in any sector, but there are particular opportunities for employees in healthcare, government contracting, recipients of federal funds, and participants in federal programs. These cases not only affect the employees involved but also protect public funds, ensure patient safety, and promote accountability in industries that impact millions of lives. Understanding the typical scenarios and legal protections in each sector allows lawyers to guide clients through the process, protect their rights, and seek remedies when retaliation occurs.

Healthcare

Healthcare employees may file whistleblower claims when reporting unsafe patient care, medically-unnecessary procedures or services, improper financial relationships between providers that undermine medical decision-making, overbilling or improper billing arrangements, violations of OSHA regulations, or fraud in billing and insurance practices. Lawyers representing whistleblowers can help clients document concerns, navigate internal reporting channels, and ensure compliance with federal and state whistleblower protections. Statutes like the federal False Claims Act, and state analogues, frequently apply in this context, offering both protection and potential recovery for employees who report fraud.

Whistleblower cases in this sector often involve employees at:

• Hospitals and medical centers
• Nursing homes and long-term care facilities
• Clinics and urgent care centers
• Home health agencies and hospice providers
• Drug and medical device companies
• Diagnostic testing laboratories
• Pharmacies and pharmacy chains
• Electronic medical record providers
• Private equity firms or other financial service providers that own or work with health care providers,

Government Contractors

Employees of government contractors often encounter situations involving fraud, waste, or violations of contract terms. Whistleblower claims in this sector may involve reporting these issues to federal authorities. Lawyers can advise clients on the proper channels for reporting, protections against retaliation, and potential remedies under federal whistleblower statutes. Because many of these claims involve misuse of taxpayer dollars, employees play a vital role in preventing government waste and ensuring fair use of public resources.  

Employment lawyers may see these claims arise from employees working in settings such as:

• Defense contractors
• IT and cybersecurity service providers for government agencies
• Construction and engineering firms working on federal projects
• Consulting firms or subcontractors under government contracts

Recipients of Federal or State Funds

Employees working for organizations that receive federal or state funding may report misuse of grants, discriminatory practices, or violations of program requirements. Lawyers can assist whistleblowers by identifying applicable protections, preparing claims, and advocating for remedies such as reinstatement, back pay, or corrective action. Employment lawyers can also help ensure that clients are aware of deadlines, statutes of limitations, and confidentiality protections that may apply to their claims.

Common settings where these claims arise include employees of:

• Universities and colleges receiving federal grants
• Nonprofit organizations that carry out federal or state programs or receive federal or state funding (directly or indirectly)
• Hospitals and healthcare providers with federal or state funded research or other grants
• Community organizations administering federal and state programs
• Local governments and local government agencies 

Participants in Federal Programs

Employees involved in federal programs may observe misuse of program resources, unsafe practices, or unlawful terminations tied to program activities. Whistleblower claims in this sector often involve navigating complex program-specific rules, and lawyers can guide clients in reporting concerns while minimizing personal risk and seeking legal remedies. Attorneys can also explain how retaliation claims are handled under statutes like the Whistleblower Protection Act and OSHA-related provisions.

These issues frequently surface in:

• Organizations participating in workforce development programs
• Companies involved in federally funded research initiatives
• Agencies managing housing or community development programs
• Schools and educational programs under federal oversight
• Mortgage lenders, educational institutions, student loan providers, farm or crop lenders and insurance providers, and other companies that extend financing that is federally backed or guaranteed

Knowing what kinds of whistleblower cases are most likely to arise helps employment lawyers spot valid claims early, protect their clients, and pursue the remedies the law provides. By guiding employees through these processes, employment lawyers ensure that legitimate concerns are addressed and that clients receive the remedies they are entitled to under the law. In order to protect your client’s rights and interests, it is critical to be able to identify potential whistleblower cases and consult with trained specialists at the outset and before any claims are filed.  Our team of former federal prosecutors with decades of experience working with whistleblowers and on sensitive corporate investigations stands ready to assist you and your clients in this crucial area.