Overview
Nicholas F. Alarif focuses his practice on healthcare regulatory and fraud and abuse matters, including the physician self-referral law (Stark Law), False Claims Act (FCA), the Federal Anti-Kickback Statute and other healthcare compliance matters. He also advises clients on the complex legal and factual issues surrounding Medicare Parts A–D reimbursement and other Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) payment policies. With his combination of in-house, federal government and Big Law experience, Nick provides well-rounded and actionable counsel to healthcare clients, with business objectives and compliance at the forefront.
Prior to rejoining McDermott, Nicholas served as systems director and senior corporate counsel for one of the country’s largest non-profit health systems. He also worked within CMS where he focused on Stark Law matters, including regulatory policy, the Stark Law Self-Referral Disclosure Protocol, advisory opinions and providing technical assistance to the US Department of Justice on FCA investigations and litigation. Before CMS, Nicholas worked at the US Department of Health & Human Services Office of Medicare Hearings and Appeals. Nicholas also currently serves as an adjunct professor of Healthcare Fraud & Abuse at the American University Washington College of Law.
Recognitions
- Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America, Healthcare Law, 2025
- Appreciation and Achievement Award, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 2015
Community
- American University Washington College of Law, Adjunct Professor of Healthcare Fraud & Abuse
- American Health Lawyers Association, Member
- California Society for Healthcare Attorneys, Member
Credentials
Education
American University Washington College of Law, JD, cum laude, 2011
University of Delaware, BS, 2007
Admissions
California
District of Columbia
Virginia
