Medicare Fraud

Have you received a phone call offering you an updated Medicare card, a back brace or knee brace? Or have you received an offer for a free DNA test kit? It is not uncommon for Medicare beneficiaries to receive these types of fraudulent solicitations. Any medical equipment or test paid for my Medicare must be ordered by your physician. If you receive one of these solicitations here a few tips to keep in mind:

• Hang up or refuse contact: Don’t engage with any unsolicited offers for a new Medicare card, medical supplies or DNA tests.
  
• Listen to your doctor: Medicare has strict coverage rules for its medical supplies and tests that need to be prescribed by your doctor. Never respond to open solicitations for Medicare-covered supplies.
  
• Protect your personal information: Only provide your Medicare number to health care providers at the time you are actively seeking service.
  
• Reconcile your Medicare statements: Carefully monitor your Medicare statements for any claims for services or supplies billed to you which you did not receive.
  
• Report fraud: If you’ve been solicited by a potential Medicare scammer, report it by calling Medicare at: 800-633-4227 or visit www.medicare.gov. You can also contact the Colorado Senior Medicare Patrol at: 800-503-5190.

If you have questions about a potential Medicare scam call, DNA test or medical supply offer you received, contact an AARP ElderWatch Volunteer Specialist at 800-222-4444, option 2, to talk you through the situation.