As a Partner of the Medicare Compliance Group at GRSM, Melanie S. Schafer’s practice focuses on the resolution of Medicare compliance issues that arise in the settlement of workers’ compensation and general liability claims. In her counsel to self-insureds, insurance companies, counsel, and injured parties, Melanie demystifies the complex relationship between Section 111 reporting, public and private party liens, and federal agency compliance regulations to ensure clients have appropriately protected government interests and effectuated iron-clad settlements. She is also regularly retained nationally as an expert speaker on MSP compliance and protecting Medicare’s interests in workers’ compensation, no-fault, and liability actions.

Melanie practice philosophy is one of immediate responsiveness: clients can expect to have their needs and communications thoroughly researched and timely handled. She adopts a multi-strategy approach to counseling, laying out all conceivable avenues, their perks and pitfalls, and a common-sense plan of approach sensitive to compliance and client needs.

Prior to joining Gordon & Rees, Melanie worked as a professional opera singer, a public school teacher certified in English and history, and an instructor at the University of Michigan, where she pursued a Ph.D. in English Language and Literature prior to leaving the program to attend law school. She has practiced law as Medicare counsel in another national Medicare practice group, as a consulting attorney concentrating on Medicare compliance issues in institutional settings, and as a litigator handling tax and general and professional liability claims. She has also volunteered in a pro bono capacity with local legal aid agencies.

Admissions

• Pennsylvania
• United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania
• United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit

Memberships

• Pennsylvania Bar Association

• Community Involvement

• Resonance Works Pittsburgh
  • Member, Board of Directors, 2014
  • Chair, Finance Committee, 2014