如何避免医疗保险骗局

As Medicare’s Open Enrollment period fast approaches, beneficiaries face a barrage of information and offers. While this annual registration window provides valuable opportunities to adjust coverage, it also attracts scammers looking to exploit confusion and urgency. Understanding how to protect yourself from Medicare scams is crucial for ensuring you receive benefits without disruption.  

3 Facts 关于 Medicare Open Enrollment Periods

Understanding why you should stay on high alert during Medicare’s Open Enrollment can help you safely navigate this period.

1. Timing is crucial for ensuring you receive the desired coverage. The Medicare Open Enrollment period runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. This is when you can make changes to your Medicare coverage for the following year.
2. There is increased scam activity during this time. Fraudsters often ramp up their efforts during open enrollment. They capitalize on common questions surrounding plan changes to trick unsuspecting beneficiaries.
3. Agency imposters might attempt to contact you about your benefits. Scammers send unsolicited calls, texts, or emails claiming to be from Medicare. 在现实中, Medicare representatives won't contact you unexpectedly for personal information. 

What Medicare Scammers Want from You

Con artists want to steal your Social 安全 number or Medicare card number, which can put you at risk of identity theft or cause a disruption in benefit services. They do this by promising free medical supplies, cheaper plans, or refunds if you sign up now. Victims often find themselves enrolled in expensive plans that do not meet their healthcare needs or that someone has made fraudulent Medicare claims using their card. 

How to Protect Your Benefits

Medicare scams can have devastating consequences for beneficiaries. To safeguard your Medicare benefits and personal information, follow these essential tips:

• 保密你的名片. Do not share your Social 安全 card or Medicare card with anyone who does not have a legitimate reason for requesting it. Only provide the information to trusted healthcare providers and those whom you initiate contact. 
• 信任前先核实. If someone calls claiming to be from Medicare, hang up and call the official Medicare number (1-800-MEDICARE) to confirm the legitimacy of the contact. 
• 消息灵通. Regularly review your Medicare statements for any unauthorized services or items. Report discrepancies immediately to Medicare to prevent further fraudulent activity.

These measures can shield you against Medicare scams, safeguarding your benefits and personal information from people who would exploit them. 

What if I Suspect a Medicare Scam?

If you believe you've encountered a Medicare scam, you should:

• 文档的一切. Think about every interaction you had with the suspected scammer. Write down everything you remember, 包括日期, 次, 名称使用, and any other relevant information that could help with an investigation.
• 报告事件. Immediately contact Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Fraud Hotline at 1-800-HHS-TIPS. Providing information about suspected scams can help authorities put a stop to fraudulent activities.
• 寻求当地帮助. 你当地的 老年医保巡查 can provide guidance and support if you suspect a scammer has targeted you. These organizations offer free counseling and can help you understand your rights and options.
• 监控你的账户. Review your Medicare statements for any unusual activity. Early detection can help reduce potential damage. Set up alerts on your financial accounts to quickly identify any suspicious transactions.

Taking swift action when you suspect a scam protects you and contributes to the broader fight against Medicare scams. For more information about your Medicare benefits, visit 医疗保险.政府.