Which of the following is a consequence of providing below-market rental rates to physicians?

Providing below-market rental rates to physicians can create a significant risk of violating the Anti-Kickback Statute, which is designed to prevent providers from receiving improper financial benefits in exchange for referrals or business. By offering rental rates that are significantly lower than fair market value, the arrangement can be viewed as a form of compensation for referrals, potentially influencing the physician's decisions in ways that could harm patients and distort competition in healthcare markets.

This practice may lead to legal scrutiny because it could be perceived as an inducement for physicians to refer patients to the entity providing the rental space. The Anti-Kickback Statute prohibits any arrangements that might incentivize providers to make referrals based on financial gain rather than patient welfare. Therefore, entering into contracts with rental terms that do not align with established market rates can expose healthcare providers to serious legal consequences.