What constitutes embezzlement within a medical practice?

Embezzlement in a medical practice involves the act of fraudulently altering financial documents to misappropriate funds. This definition captures the essence of embezzlement, which is fundamentally about dishonestly managing or manipulating financial records for personal gain. In this context, it means that someone within the practice has deliberately engaged in deceitful behavior concerning the handling of financial documents, such as falsifying expenses, inflating invoices, or diverting money meant for the practice, thereby committing a crime.

Other options, while potentially concerning in a medical practice, do not fit the legal definition of embezzlement. Misplacing financial records relates to negligence rather than intentional fraud. Providing incorrect patient information can lead to legal and ethical issues, but it does not pertain to the stealing or misappropriation of funds. Giving unauthorized discounts might involve unethical behavior or poor financial management but does not constitute the act of embezzlement unless it is tied to financial manipulation or deceit. Thus, altering financial documents fraudulently is the criteria that distinctly characterizes embezzlement in this scenario.