Medicare loses an estimated $60 billion each year due to fraud, errors, and abuse. Every day, these issues affect countless beneficiaries nationwide.
The good news is that by following some simple tips, you can protect yourself against these types of scams. Remembering to protect, detect, and report helps everyone, including you and your loved ones.
A “representative” calls offering an incentive—perhaps a free back or knee brace. All he needs is your Medicare number. It may seem harmless at first, but this is attempted fraud and it could lead to identity theft.
Don’t accept medical equipment or supplies unless they are ordered by your doctor. Never share your Medicare number with a stranger who calls to ask for it.
Protecting your personal information is your best defense against health care fraud and abuse. Steps to protect yourself and your health care benefits:
Knowing how to spot suspicious activity can help you stop health care fraud and abuse in its tracks. Steps to detect possible fraud, errors, and abuse:
If you suspect you have been a target of fraud, report it. This will help you and others at risk for health care scams. Steps to report suspicious behavior: