Increased Fraud activity – Everyone should be on alert
It seems that daily or weekly we are alerted to fraudulent activity whether it is related to our checking or bank accounts, phone and internet services or our medical information and insurance.
Earlier this year, Frederick Health reported a ransomware attack and continues to remain unsure as to the degree or impact of this breach. I remind you of this so that you can continue to monitor your accounts.
I was notified today by a resident’s spouse who received a Medicare bill for services that were not received by his wife. These two bills were over $15,000 each and are fraudulently claimed services that were not received.
Please regularly examine the explanation of benefit documents from insurance, comparing the information to your own personal appointments and services received to ensure that it is accurate information.
Medical identity theft is a serious crime. Below are some steps you can take if you feel that you are a victim of suspected Medicare fraud. ·
- 1-800-MEDICARE: Call the Medicare help line to report fraudulent activity on your Medicare Summary Notice or to ask questions about suspicious charges. ·
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Report suspected fraud, waste, or abuse to the HHS. ·
- Inspector General’s fraud hotline: Call 1-800-HHS-TIPS (1-800-447-8477) to report suspected fraud, waste, or abuse.4 It’s important to report any suspicious activity to protect yourself and others from potential financial and health risks associated with Medicare fraud.
Remember, Medicare will never call you to sell you anything or visit your home. Never give your Medicare card, Medicare number, social security card, or social security number to anyone except your doctor or known service providers you know.
If you get an explanation of benefit or a billing statement that seems wrong, please reach out to a trusted family member and seek help to report the issue.
