Prevent Medicare Fraud: 10 Do’s and Don’ts

From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

1. Don’t let anyone borrow or pay to use your Medicare ID card.

2. Don’t respond to telemarketers who say they are from Medicare or Social Security and ask for payment over the phone or internet. They may want to steal your money.

3. Don’t give your Medicare Health Insurance Claim Number (on your Medicare card) to anyone but your physician or Medicare provider.

4. Don’t allow anyone (except appropriate medical professionals) to review your medical records or recommend services.

5. Don’t allow someone to pressure you into contacting your physician to request services that you know you do not need.

6. Do be cautious if you are offered a free testing/screening in exchange for your Medicare card number.

7. Do avoid providers of health care items or services who tell you that the items or services are not usually covered, but they know how to bill Medicare to get it paid.

8. Do keep your personal medical information and Medicare card number safe. Don’t give your information out over the internet or to anyone who comes to your home (or calls you) uninvited. * Call 1-800-MEDICARE if you are not sure if a provider is approved by Medicare.

9. Do be suspicious of anyone who offers you free medical equipment or services and in return, requests your Medicare number.

10. Do report fraud to the Office of Inspector General. Email HHSTips@oig.hhs.gov, or call: 1-800-447-8477. For examples of Medicare fraud, visit: medicare.gov/fraud

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