Staying Alert About Medical ID Theft

Medical identity theft is when someone steals or uses your personal information (like your name, Social Security number, or Medicare number), to submit fraudulent claims to Medicare and other health insurers without your authorization. A thief may use your name or health insurance numbers to see a doctor, get prescription drugs, file claims with your insurance provider, or get other care. If the thief’s health information is mixed with yours, your treatment, insurance and payment records, and credit report may be affected.

Signs of medical identity theft include:

• a bill for medical services you didn’t receive
• a call from a debt collector about a medical debt you don’t owe
• medical collection notices on your credit report that you don’t recognize
• a notice from your health plan saying you reached your benefit limit
• a denial of insurance because your medical records show a condition you don’t have.

Keep an eye on your medical bills and statements, and contact your provider if you see anything out of the ordinary!

Stay informed about current scams and fight fraud today!