Which action would violate the Anti-Kickback Statute?

Taking money for referrals constitutes a violation of the Anti-Kickback Statute because this law is designed to prevent financial incentives that could influence a healthcare provider's ability to make unbiased clinical decisions. The statute specifically prohibits the exchange of anything of value in return for referrals of services or items covered by federal healthcare programs. This is crucial to maintain the integrity of medical decision-making and to ensure that patient care is not compromised for financial gain.

Accepting minor gifts from patients, providing free medical screenings, and offering discounts on medical services may not directly involve an exchange for referrals or influence the decision-making process related to patient care, making them less likely to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute. However, the central issue with taking money for referrals is that it creates a direct conflict of interest where patient care could be overshadowed by financial motivations.