Preventing Medicare Fraud
Medicare beneficiaries are the first line of defense against Medicare fraud and abuse. Here are some ways Medicare beneficiaries can protect themselves, their loved ones, and Medicare from fraud.
Record
Record the dates of doctor's appointments on a calendar. Note the tests and services received and save the receipts and statements from providers. Be sure to record the dates and services.
Report
Report suspected Medicare fraud by calling 1-800-MEDICARE. When using the automated phone system, have the Medicare card available and clearly speak or enter the Medicare number and letter(s). If errors are identified or fraud is suspected, the Area Agency on Aging can help make a report to Medicare.
Remember
Medicare beneficiaries should always protect their Medicare number. Never give out a Medicare number in exchange for a special offer. Medicare or Social Security will never contact a Medicare beneficiary by telephone and ask for personal information, like Medicare, Social Security, or bank account numbers. Never allow someone else to use the Medicare card, and never use another person's card.
Review
Look for signs of faud, including claims not recognized on the "Medicare Summary Notices" (MSNs), and advertisements or phone calls from companies offering free items or services to people with Medicaire. Compare the Dates and services with the MSNs to make sure each service was listed and that all details are correct. If items listed in the claims are not in the record, it is possible that a Medicare beneficiary or Medicare may have been billed for services or items not received. If a Medicare beneficiary is in a Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO) or Medicare Prescription Drug Plan, call the plan for more information about a claim.
Senior Fraud Information
Seniors are often the target of fraud. However, with some basic understanding of how scam artists work, you can avoid fraud and protect your hard-earned money. If you suspect you’ve been the victim of a scam… Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to talk about it with someone you trust. You are not alone, and there are people who can help. Doing nothing could only make it worse. Keep handy the phone numbers and resources you can turn to, including the local police, your bank (if money has been taken from your accounts), and Adult Protective Services. To obtain the contact information for Adult Protective Services in your area, call the Eldercare Locator, a government sponsored national resource line, at: 1-800-677-1116, or visit their website at: www.eldercare.gov.
- Senior Medicare Patrols empower and assist Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers to prevent, detect, and report health care fraud, errors, and abuse through outreach, counseling, and education.
- Annuity.org has information related to annuity and insurance scams that often target seniors. For more information regarding annuities for senior citizens click here.
- The National Council on Aging reports the Top 10 scams targeting seniors and provides information so you can identify a potential scam.
- The Federal Bureau of Investigation lists common fraud schemes that target seniors and provide information about these schemes so that you don't become the next victim.
- The U.S. Office of Investor Education & Advocacy has prepared a guide for seniors to help protect themselves against investment fraud.