What Seniors Should Know About Medicare Fraud: Real-Life Warning Signs
Medicare fraud often starts in ways that seem ordinary - a charge on your statement, a phone call, or an unexpected package. Many seniors don’t realize something is wrong until they take a closer look. Understanding these situations can help you recognize warning signs early and protect your benefits.
<Q1> I got a call saying I need a new Medicare card, and they asked me to confirm my number. Is this real?
No. Medicare does not call beneficiaries to request personal information, or issue replacement cards this way. Scammers use this tactic to steal your Medicare number and commit fraud in your name. . Treat your Medicare number like a credit card and only share it with trusted providers.
<Q2> I was offered something “free,” like a back brace or genetic test, and later received it. Why did this happen?
This is a common scam. Fraudsters use “free” offers to collect your Medicare number and bill for expensive equipment or tests to Medicare in your name. Medicare only covers equipment that is medically necessary and prescribed by your doctor. Do not assume they are approved or legitimate and never share your Medicare number in exchange for “free” items.
<Q3> A salesperson says I must enroll in a Medicare plan today or lose my benefits. Should I believe them?”
No. This is a common enrollment scam, especially during Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period, October 15 – December 7 of each year – the time when you review your coverage and can make a change for the first of the following year. While some plans may have low or no premiums, they still have rules, networks, and cost-sharing. Claims that a plan covers “everything” or requires immediate action are misleading and a red flag for fraud. Medicare enrollment periods are regulated, and you always have time to compare options. Verify plan details carefully before making decisions. Legitimate Medicare plans are not sold through urgent or forced decisions. Contact your local Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors program at 1-800-562-6900) for free, unbiased assistance. They can help you review your coverage options and make sure your coverage best fits your needs.
<Q4> I see charges for lab tests and doctor visits I never had. What should I do?
This may be false or “phantom” billing, one of the most common types of Medicare fraud. Review your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or Explanation of Benefits (EOB) to compare the dates, providers, and services listed. As MSNs are only mailed out every six months, you can view your claims anytime or sign up for monthly electronic MSNs by creating an account at Medicare.gov. Some issues may be simple billing errors, but unfamiliar charges should not be ignored. Contact your provider first to confirm and report any concerns or suspected fraud to your local Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) at 877-808-2468. Regular review helps prevent ongoing misuse..
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If you have questions about public benefits, there are 3 ways you can reach us today:
Call our Helpline at: (English) 1-800-336-2722, (Korean) 1-800-582-4259,
(Chinese Mandarin) 1-800-683-7427, (Cantonese) 1-800-582-4218,
(Vietnamese) 1-800-582-4336
Email: askNAPCA@napca.org
Mail: NAPCA Helpline, 1511 3rd Avenue, Suite 914, Seattle, WA 98101
The National Asian Pacific Center on Aging (NAPCA) is dedicated to improving the quality of life for AANHPI older adults by advocating for their unique needs and ensuring access to culturally competent services.
SMP is a federally funded program through the Administration for Community Living and operates in every state, empowering and assisting people with Medicare and Medicaid to avoid, detect, and report healthcare fraud.
