Yuma doctor charged in fraud scheme totaling more than $36 million; alleged ties to Mexico drug cartels
Moses Femino
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – New details on a Yuma doctor arrested in an alleged fraud scheme totaling more than $36 million.
Court documents we obtained show that there might even be possible ties to drug cartels in Mexico.
A Yuma doctor is facing multiple felony charges after being arrested as part of an ongoing investigation by the Arizona Attorney General’s Office.
Minute Order notes we obtained from Yuma County Justice Court state that Dr. Fazil was allegedly involved in a fraud scheme where the loss amounts to more than $36 million.
Investigators served a search warrant Wednesday at Bio Family Clinic in the Foothills area of Yuma, leading to the arrest of 54-year-old Dr. Irfan Fazil.
According to jail records, Fazil is being held at the Yuma County Jail on a $50 million bond. He faces charges of theft from a building or control of property, illegal control of an enterprise, and conspiracy involving fraudulent schemes and artifices.
The Arizona Attorney General’s Office confirmed the arrest in a statement.
“This action was taken as part of an ongoing investigation by the Arizona Attorney General’s Office. Dr. Fazil’s arraignment will be scheduled in the coming days.”
As news of the arrest spread throughout the community, some residents expressed relief that the investigation had resulted in action.
One local resident, whose mother was previously a patient of Fazil, said concerns about the doctor had been discussed within his family for years.
“My mom was one of his patients and she expressed to me years ago about what he was doing,” Jordan Holt said. “It’s receiving to know that something is finally happening about it.”
According to the Bio Family Clinic website, Fazil founded the clinic and has been in private practice for more than 15 years. The website also states that he was named a top nephrologist in 2023 by America’s Best Doctor Magazine.
Despite the arrest and investigation, Bio Family Clinic remained open Thursday morning, with patients continuing to enter and leave the facility.
KYMA also spoke with several individuals who identified themselves as former patients and employees of the clinic. While none agreed to speak on camera, several said they hope the investigation will provide answers and accountability.
Following the arrest, Onvida Health issued a statement clarifying that it has no affiliation with Bio Family Clinic or Fazil.
“Onvida Health has no relationship to, or affiliation with, Bio Family Clinic. Irfan Fazil is not a member of the medical staff of Onvida Health Yuma Medical Center.”
The healthcare provider added that it remains focused on serving patients who may experience disruptions in their care.
“At Onvida Health, our focus is on providing high-quality, compassionate care. We welcome all members of our community as patients and will support any that might experience a disruption with their health care.”
Fazil is scheduled to return to court Friday. The Arizona Attorney General’s Office has not released additional details about the investigation at this time.
The documents we obtained can be read below: