Protecting Yourself from Medicare Fraud

Medicare is a system designed to provide medical support older individuals, and younger individuals with disabilities.  Started in 1965, this system is supported by taxes, unlike private medical insurance companies.  Due to their broad spectrum of enrollment criteria, they serve a large populous of the elderly, infirm, and disadvantaged.  Unfortunately, Medicare fraud is gaining popularity.  Medicare fraud is expansive, and costs billions of dollars each year. Every individual enrolled in Medicare has a responsibility to ensure they do not commit or perpetuate the epidemic of Medicare fraud.

Identity theft is a key factor in Medicare fraud.  Individuals who are not protective of their medical information can fall victim very easily. While individuals may not be liable for the fraud, it may endanger your ability to procure future benefits and supplies.  Victims of Medicare fraud may also find it difficult Protect your Medicare card as you would your social security card or credit cards.  Never give the number to strangers or companies you’re not familiar with over the phone.  Never let your family members or friends use your card.  If someone offers you a free medical service, always keep in mind that they do not need your Medicare card in order to conduct the service.  Many scams are made possible by people giving their Medicare card numbers to “Free service” companies.

Never accept offers for medical equipment you do not need.  Some Medicare scam artists will gain numbers and ship unneeded supplies, billing Medicare are keeping the profits.

If you are receiving traditional Medicare, you should be receiving statements each quarter.  Scan these for anything that seems out of the ordinary.  Look for listings of doctors you never saw, medical supplies you never received or ordered, or billings for equipment that you never ordered.  Even small charges, if multiplied by hundreds of people or instances, can add up to big bucks.

If you are suspicious of activity that may have already happened, check your credit report.  Look for any unfamiliar unpaid medical bills. 

MyMedicare.gov is a wonderful resource for individuals or caretakers to view statements and check for discrepancies.  Medical statements are usually available on that site 24 hours after processing. If you ever find a discrepancy, or believe you may be a victim of Medicare fraud, contact your medical provider first, then 1-800-HHS-TIPS (1-800-447-8477), or via e-mail at HHSTips@hhs.gov to file a report.  In some cases, you may even earn a $1,000 reward!  If you lose your card, call the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 1-800-772-1213.

As an additional resource to seniors, every state has Senior Medicare Patrol Office.  These offices can help seniors investigate whether they have been a victim of fraud.  To find your Senior Medicare Patrol Office, go to www.smpresource.org.

For more resources to help you avoid Medicare fraud, visit http://www.stopmedicarefraud.gov/.  Their online site plays host to an array of fraud fighting tips and tricks.

Medicare is a wonderful service for our seniors and our disabled population.  By fighting fraud, we can ensure that future generations can use the benefits as well.

Megan Wilson is a stay at home mom, blogger, and freelance writer.  She’s passionate about social issues and spreading the word about homeless shelter software

Resources:

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/10/30/health/30patient.html

https://www.medicare.gov/Publications/Pubs/pdf/10111.pdf