Learn how to protect yourself from Medicare fraud
-
Loading... - Nicholas Leos
- 22 May 2023
- 71 Views
- 0 Like
- 0 Comment
As of February 2023, over 65 million individuals in the United States are enrolled in Medicare, and the number of eligible beneficiaries continues to rise annually. However, being part of Medicare also means being susceptible to Medicare-related fraud. The Medicare program consistently cautions individuals about the dangers posed by scammers who exploit beneficiaries' benefits by stealing their Medicare Numbers and other personal information.
Medicare fraud refers to the act of making false claims for healthcare services, procedures, and equipment with the intent to obtain Medicare payments. This fraudulent activity not only costs taxpayers billions of dollars but also jeopardizes the health and well-being of beneficiaries.
"Medicare fraud can target anyone on Medicare," stated Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). She emphasized the importance of taking proactive steps to safeguard oneself and loved ones from potential scammers by familiarizing oneself with CMS' fraud tips, recognizing warning signs, and promptly reporting suspicious activity. By working together, we can ensure that individuals do not fall victim to Medicare fraud.
Recognizing scams requires awareness of the various forms they can take, such as unsolicited emails, phone calls, text messages, social media posts, and fake websites. Scammers often pose as representatives from the Medicare office, insurance companies, or government agencies. They manipulate individuals into providing personal and financial information, such as Medicare or Social Security Numbers, to submit fraudulent claims for payment.
It is crucial to remember that Medicare will never reach out to you via phone, text, email, or social media to request your Medicare number. By keeping this in mind, you can better protect yourself from potential fraudsters. Here are some essential steps to take:
- Safeguard your Medicare Number as you would protect your Social Security card and credit card.
- Only share your Medicare Number with trusted healthcare providers.
- Review your Medicare statements carefully, looking for suspiciously billed services, and inquire about anything that appears incorrect.
Reporting scammers is vital not only for your own protection but also for the well-being of millions of other Medicare beneficiaries and individuals with disabilities. If you or someone you know has been a victim of Medicare fraud or suspects receiving a fraudulent offer, it is crucial to report it as soon as possible.
