Health/Medicare Scam Awareness
Friendly Introduction
Welcome to Scam Wise. In this edition, we focus on healthcare and Medicare scams that often target seniors and vulnerable patients. Scammers exploit our health concerns and trust in medical providers – from fake Medicare representatives to bogus “free” medical services. We’re here with friendly guidance to help you or your loved ones stay safe. Let’s learn how to spot health-related scams and secure your peace of mind.
Practical Tips for Prevention
- Guard Your Medicare Information: Never give out your Medicare number or health insurance info to unsolicited callers or strangers. Medicare will not call you about getting a new card or benefits – that’s a red flag. Share health info only with your doctors or trusted providers.
- Scrutinize “Free” Offers: Be wary of anyone offering free medical products or tests in exchange for your Medicare details. For example, scammers might promise free medical equipment or genetic tests but really want your ID to bill Medicare fraudulently. If it sounds too good (or too weird) to be true, decline and verify with your doctor.
- Check Statements & Bills: Review your Medicare Summary Notices and medical bills closely. Look for charges for services or treatments you never received. Crooks have billed Medicare for things like diabetic supplies or braces for patients who don’t need them. If you spot an unfamiliar charge, report it right away.
- Be Cautious During Open Enrollment: Medicare’s open enrollment period (Oct 15–Dec 7) is open season for scammers. If someone calls or emails claiming to be Medicare or an insurance agent and pressures you to act now to keep your coverage, it’s likely a scam. Contact Medicare or your insurer using official contact info to confirm any legitimate communication.
Real-Life Scenario: Medicare Card Phone Scam
A recent warning out of New York shows how convincing health scams can be. Seniors reported calls from someone claiming Medicare was issuing new “plastic” ID cards with microchips. The caller (a scammer) casually asked for personal details – doctor’s name, diagnoses, etc. – then offered the new card. Reality check: Medicare cards do not need replacing and never expire, and Medicare will never call you to ask for personal info. In this New York case, the NYS Senior Action Council alerted the public that it was a ruse to collect info and potentially defraud Medicare. Thanks to awareness, many hung up before falling victim. Always remember: unsolicited call = potential scam. Hang up and call Medicare directly if you have any doubts.
Scam Radar: “Free Genetic Test” Frauds Return
On our Scam Radar this month is an old scheme making a comeback – the “free genetic testing” scam. Here’s how it works: you’re at a health fair or get a call offering a no-cost DNA swab to check for health risks. All you need is to swab your cheek and provide your Medicare number. Sounds harmless, right? In truth, Medicare rarely covers random genetic tests, and scammers just want your ID to bill Medicare or steal your identity. In 2024, reports of this scam surged again as crooks revived the tactic of setting up pop-up booths or calling seniors about “cancer screening” cheek swabs. Stay vigilant : Decline any unrequested health test or service, and consult your doctor instead. If you did a cheek swab at an event and it feels suspect, monitor your Medicare statements for unauthorized charges.
GrandPad – Safe Tablet for Seniors
One way to empower older loved ones against scams is by simplifying their tech. GrandPad is a secure, senior-friendly tablet designed to keep scammers out and family connections strong. GrandPad comes pre-loaded with easy video chat, photos, email, and even a closed network for trusted contacts only. That means no spam calls or phishing emails from strangers – just meaningful communication. CTA: Give the gift of safe connectivity with GrandPad, and help the seniors in your life stay scam-free!
Quick Takeaways
- Medicare and government health agencies will not cold-call you for personal info or to issue new cards – hang up on unsolicited calls.
- Never share Medicare or insurance numbers with someone offering “free” medical devices or tests. It’s likely a scam to steal your ID.
- Review medical statements for false charges (e.g. treatments you never had) and report any discrepancies.
- Trending scams include fake Medicare card calls and genetic testing ploys – spread the word so others can spot the red flags.
- Tool Tip: Consider technology like GrandPad to help seniors stay connected securely, reducing exposure to phone and online scams.