Medicare can be a great resource and unique layer of protection for people over the age of 65 or with certain disabilities under the age of 65.   Unfortunately, some characters or organizations may try to take advantage of you by committing Medicare fraud.

What Is Medicare Fraud?

Medicare fraud is the act of knowingly submitting false information or claims to Medicare to receive payment for services or items that were not provided. It can also include billing Medicare for unnecessary medical treatments or supplies. Medicare fraud comes in many forms, including through telemarketing, door-to-door sales, or online scams. The results of Medicare fraud can be serious and may include loss of Medicare benefits, large fines, and even imprisonment.

How To Protect Yourself?

1.) Keep Your Medicare Card Secure: 
Your Medicare card is very important. It contains private information, like your Social Security number and Medicare number. Make sure to keep your Medicare card in a secure location and avoid carrying it with you if you can help it. Make sure not to share your Medicare number with anyone other than your healthcare providers and your insurance broker. 

2.) Look at Your Medicare Statements Often:
Look over your Medicare statements to make sure that they accurately reflect the services you have been receiving. If you notice any errors or unfamiliar charges, report them to Medicare immediately. Look at the details checking for any discrepancies between the actual services or treatments you received and what is listed on your statement. If anything is not correct, report it right away. 

3.) Be cautious of Unsolicited Calls or Home Visits: 
Be cautious when receiving unsolicited phone calls or visits from people claiming to be from Medicare. Medicare will never call or visit you out of the blue to ask for your personal information or offer you services or supplies. If you get a call or visit like that, hang up or decline the offer and report the event to Medicare.

4.) Check On Providers and Suppliers: 
Before you receive any medical treatments or supplies, make sure to research the provider or supplier to make sure they are legitimate and authorized by Medicare. To check if a provider or supplier is enrolled in Medicare use the Medicare.gov website. This website is a wealth of information. 

5.) Be Extra Cautious When Providing Your Information: 
Be on guard when sharing your personal and medical information, especially on social media or with strangers. Scammers and fraudsters can use this information to steal your identity or commit Medicare fraud. Never give out your Social Security number or Medicare ID number to anyone who does not need it. 

6.) Report Suspicious Incidents: 
If you think you have encountered Medicare fraud, report it immediately to Medicare. You can call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).  Reporting suspected fraud can help prevent others from falling prey to these traps.

Medicare fraud is a big issue that can have tremendous consequences for seniors. It is important to be active and aware of it to protect yourself from these traps.

Some steps to follow to protect yourself are:

1. Keep your Medicare card secure

2. Review your Medicare statements

3. Be Cautious when you receive unsolicited calls

4. Research providers and suppliers

5. Be cautious when sharing your information

6. Report suspected fraud.

These steps can help you and your loved ones prevent falling into any traps that scammers and fraudsters use to get your information.