How to protect yourself from Medicare scams
It’s estimated that over $60 billion is lost annually from Medicare misuse and fraud. Beyond costing taxpayers’ dollars, Medicare fraud can put beneficiaries’ health at risk.
To learn more, we turned to Zach Fournier, Compliance Program Lead at Uber Health. His team works to identify and prevent risks to Uber Health, which means he’s well versed in Medicare fraud. Read on for our answers to key questions and Fournier’s insights on what to look out for and how to protect yourself.
What is Medicare fraud?
Medicare fraud involves deceitful practices to unlawfully exploit the Medicare system. Bad actors use scam tactics to target older adults into sharing sensitive information, like Social Security and Medicare numbers. Stolen data is used for fraudulent activities, such as false medical claims or fake prescriptions, or sold on the dark web, Fournier says.
Why is Medicare fraud a problem?
According to the US Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), fraud not only costs taxpayers billions but also jeopardizes the health and welfare of those it targets. Victims of Medicare scams often face significant financial losses, unmet healthcare needs, and inadequate coverage. It can be difficult to recover stolen medical identities and recoup financial losses. This can have severe effects on victims’ health and financial stability.
Medicare scams to be aware of
As the Medicare beneficiary population grows, so does the opportunity for fraud; scammers are creative and regularly find new ways to target older adults. “Recent scams exploit specific regional vulnerabilities, like food insecurity in the Midwest or respiratory issues in Appalachia,” Fournier says.
“Scammers may try to contact older adults over the phone or via text message, email, social media, or physical mail,” he adds. Below are some of the most common tactics Fournier says scammers will use to obtain Medicare information.
- Unsolicited offers: Beware of offers for free medical equipment or services in exchange for your Medicare number.
- Threats to cancel coverage: Scammers may falsely threaten to cancel your Medicare coverage if you don’t pay a fee or provide personal details.
- Phishing schemes: Use caution online. Fake websites, texts, or emails can mimic Medicare or healthcare organizations and are designed to steal personal information.
- Prescription drug scams: Offers for free prescription drugs or delivery services in exchange for your Medicare number are often scams.
- Medicare Advantage scams: Review your statements, charges, and coverage details closely so you know what is and isn’t covered. Be wary of offerings with benefits that seem too good to be true.
- Flex card scams: Flex cards provided by Medicare Advantage plans can be at risk for exploitation. Some cards have restrictions, while others don’t. Be careful and guard your flex card like you would other forms of payment.
How to protect yourself from Medicare scams
Whenever you handle sensitive information on the web or at home, you should take precautions to keep your information safe. Use strong passwords (a password manager can help), don’t share personal information with anyone you don’t know, and be wary of selecting unfamiliar links on the web or in an email.
To avoid Medicare scams, you should also take precautions, Fournier says. Here are the steps to take, he says, to help you avoid becoming a victim:
- Protect your information. Safeguard your Medicare number, medical records, Social Security number, and flex cards. Keep this information in a secure place, like a safe or locked file cabinet or desk drawer. You can also opt to manage your Medicare statements online at Medicare.gov.
- Be aware of seasonality. Scams increase during the Medicare open enrollment period (October 17 - December 5). Remain extra vigilant during this time.
- Stay informed. Familiarize yourself with your Medicare plan’s offerings. Regularly check your statements for accuracy, and stay current on new scams.
- Educate loved ones. Caregivers should stay up to date on Medicare scams and educate their loved ones about the importance of protecting their personal information.
- Verify and report. Always confirm offers through official Medicare sources. Report suspected fraud to law enforcement, your Medicare plan, or government agencies. Learn more about reporting Medicare fraud here.
When it comes to Medicare scams, the best defense is a good offense. Says Fournier, “Proactive education and safeguarding personal information are key to protecting yourself and your loved ones.”
If you or someone you know has been affected by a Medicare scam, call 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227) or report it online.