How to Avoid Medicare Scams: Protect Your Benefits!

Medicare scams are on the rise, and fraudsters are constantly finding new ways to target beneficiaries. Scammers often pose as Medicare representatives, healthcare providers, or insurance agents to steal personal information or commit fraud. Protecting yourself from these scams is crucial to safeguarding your benefits and personal data. Here’s how you can stay safe and avoid falling victim to Medicare scams.

Common Medicare Scams to Watch For

1. Phony Medicare Representatives

Scammers may call, email, or visit in person, claiming to be from Medicare. They might say you need a new Medicare card or that your benefits are about to be canceled.

How to Avoid It:

• Medicare will never call you unsolicited to ask for personal information.

• If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and contact Medicare directly at 1-800-MEDICARE.

2. Fake Billing Scams

Fraudsters may bill Medicare for services you never received or overcharge for treatments.

How to Avoid It:

• Regularly review your Medicare Summary Notices (MSN) or Explanation of Benefits (EOB) statements.

• Report any suspicious charges to Medicare.

3. Free Medical Equipment Offers

Scammers may offer “free” medical equipment in exchange for your Medicare number, then bill Medicare fraudulently.

How to Avoid It:

• Be cautious of unsolicited offers for medical devices.

• Only obtain medical equipment from trusted, Medicare-approved providers.

4. COVID-19 and Health Screening Scams

Fraudsters use public health emergencies to trick people into giving up their Medicare details in exchange for fake COVID-19 tests or unnecessary health screenings.

How to Avoid It:

• Only get tests and services from trusted medical professionals.

• Never share your Medicare number with strangers.

5. Identity Theft Scams

Scammers may pretend to be from a government agency and ask for your Medicare number, Social Security number, or banking information.

How to Avoid It:

• Medicare will never ask for financial details over the phone.

• Protect your Medicare card and only share information with verified providers.

Steps to Protect Yourself from Medicare Fraud

• Guard Your Medicare Number: Treat it like a credit card—don’t share it unless necessary.

• Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Calls: Medicare representatives will not contact you unexpectedly.

• Monitor Your Medicare Statements: Check for errors or charges for services you didn’t receive.

• Report Suspicious Activity: Call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE or visit Medicare.gov if you suspect fraud.

• Educate Yourself and Others: Share this information with family and friends to prevent fraud in your community.

Conclusion

Medicare scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, but by staying informed and vigilant, you can protect your benefits and personal information. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is! When in doubt, contact Medicare directly to verify any suspicious requests.

At Lindbergh and Associates, we’re here to help you navigate Medicare safely and confidently. If you have questions about your coverage or suspect fraud, reach out to us today!