By 5 Towns Central Staff

QUEENS, N.Y. (July 3, 2026) — Two women have been charged in an alleged Medicaid fraud scheme in which prosecutors say one posed as a physician and treated patients for years without a medical license while using the credentials of a licensed nurse practitioner.

According to the New York Attorney General’s Office, Francia Aguila, 53, of Farmington, allegedly examined patients at Steinway Hope Medical in Astoria despite not being licensed to practice medicine. Prosecutors say Aguila wore a white lab coat, referred to herself as “Doctor Fran,” conducted medical examinations, prescribed medications, and used the identity and professional credentials of co-defendant Gifty Appiah, 59, of Staten Island, a licensed nurse practitioner.

Investigators allege Appiah rarely appeared at the clinic while Aguila treated patients in her place. Authorities say the pair submitted false claims to Medicaid-managed care organizations, representing that Appiah had personally provided medical services.

The alleged scheme took place between March 2021 and November 2024, resulting in more than $105,000 in fraudulent Medicaid reimbursements, according to prosecutors.

Attorney General Letitia James said practicing medicine without a license endangers patients and undermines confidence in the healthcare system. She added that her office remains committed to investigating Medicaid fraud and prosecuting individuals accused of exploiting the program.

The charges include multiple counts related to Medicaid fraud, grand larceny, offering false instruments for filing, and unauthorized practice of a profession.

The allegations are contained in a criminal complaint, and both defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.