Medicare fraud is a serious problem that can cost taxpayers billions of dollars each year. It is important to be aware of the potential for fraud and take steps to protect yourself and your Medicare benefits. Here are some tips to help you avoid becoming a victim of Medicare fraud.
First, be aware of any suspicious activity related to your Medicare benefits. If you receive a call from someone asking for your Medicare number or other personal information, do not provide it. Medicare will never call you and ask for your personal information. If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from Medicare, hang up and call the Medicare hotline to verify the caller’s identity.
Second, be aware of any suspicious billing practices. If you receive a bill for services you did not receive, contact your Medicare provider immediately. You should also review your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) each month to make sure all services billed to Medicare are accurate.
Third, be aware of any suspicious offers of free medical equipment or services. Medicare does not offer free medical equipment or services. If you receive an offer for free medical equipment or services, contact your Medicare provider to verify the offer.
Finally, be aware of any suspicious offers of cash or other incentives in exchange for signing up for Medicare services. Medicare does not offer cash or other incentives in exchange for signing up for services. If you receive an offer of cash or other incentives, contact your Medicare provider to verify the offer.
By following these tips, you can help protect yourself and your Medicare benefits from fraud. If you suspect that you have been a victim of Medicare fraud, contact your Medicare provider immediately.
