Don't be a Victim of Medical Identity Theft

Medical identity theft is the unauthorized use a person’s name, insurance information or social security records without that person’s knowledge or consent. The theft occurs when unscrupulous people obtain medical services, or use another person’s identity to make false claims. When a person’s medical identity is stolen, incorrect information may become a part of the victim’s medical records. This can lead to confusion and in extreme situations, it can be life-threatening if the wrong information gets mixed in with someone’s a person’s medical record.

You can help prevent this type of fraud by following some common sense practices, including the following:

Don’t become an unwitting participant by responding to television, Internet, or print ads offering “free” or “no out-of-pocket cost” medical products. Refuse delivery of mailed items you did not order. In general, you should coordinate your medical care through your primary care physician and remember that if an offer sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

Guard your Medicare, Insurance and Social Security numbers. Treat them like you would treat your credit cards. Do not let anyone borrow or give you money to use your cards. This is illegal.

Report medical equipment suppliers that send you or bill Medicare for more products than you need, such as diabetic test strips or medications.

Check your medical bills, Medicare Summary Notices, Explanations of Benefits and credit reports on a regular basis. Watch for charges for medical services or equipment that you did not receive. Verify the dates of service, charges, or provider names and make sure you were not billed for the same thing twice.

If you spot questionable charges, contact your health care provider. It may just be a mistake. If your doctor, hospital or other provider cannot provide you with a satisfactory explanation, report the questionable charges to your insurance provider or Medicare.

If you suspect Medicare fraud, contact the Department of Health & Human Services Office of Inspector General.  Phone: 1-800-447-8477 (1-800-HHS-TIPS) TTY: 1-800-377-4950. Reducing medical fraud is one way we can work together to keep our health care costs in line.

To learn more about medical identity theft visit: www.medicare.gov/fraud-MEDICARE.