Watch Out for Diabetes Scams

Having diabetes is challenging enough. Don’t also get defrauded by a health care scam.

As part of its Fraud Watch Network efforts, AARP Arkansas is working with the state’s Senior Medicare Patrol to inform residents about common Medicare scams. Nearly 13 percent of Arkansans have diabetes, and that makes them vulnerable to a particular type of scam.

Someone pretending to be from a government agency or a diabetes association calls to offer “free” supplies, such as a glucose meter, test strips or lancets. In exchange, the scammer asks for a Medicare number or financial information.

For tips to protect yourself, read “Diabetes Scams: What Should You Do?” To download the leaflet, go to daas.ar.gov/asmp_fraud.html and click on Diabetes Scams. Or to request a copy, call the Arkansas Senior Medicare Patrol toll-free at 866-726-2916.