Page 2 - April NEwsletter 2023

Avoiding Scams

and ..Fraud for Older Medicare scams
1. Protect your Medicare number as you do your credit
Adults card numbers and do not allow anyone other than trust-
ed health providers to use it.
2. Be wary of salespeople trying to sell you something
22 Tips for Seniors to Avoid Scams they claim will be paid for by Medicare.
We have printed several articles over the past few 3. Review your Medicare Summary Notices to be sure
months about this subject, but these scams are on you have in fact received the services billed.
the rise. Be ever vigilant If it seems to goo do be 4. Report suspicious activities to 1-800-MEDICARE or
true, it probably is, avoid or get advice. your local Senior Medicare Patrol.
—Reprint from the National Council On Aging. Telemarketing scams
www.Ncoa.ort 1. Don’t buy from an unfamiliar company. You can
learn more about reputable companies from the Better
Business Bureau.
Key Takeaways
2. Always ask for and wait until you receive written ma-
Health insurance fraud is a common scam affecting sen- terial about any offer or charity.
iors. Guard your medical information carefully.
3. Obtain a salesperson’s name, business identity, tele-
Don't buy services or items from telemarketers. Take phone number, street address, mailing ad dress, and
time to weigh your options.
business license number before you transact business.
Do research and ask for references to avoid home re- 4. Always take your time in making a decision.
pair/contractor fraud. 5. If you have information about a fraud, report it to
Far too many older adults fall prey to scammers who state, local, or federal law enforcement agencies.
are looking to make a quick buck. Here are 22 tips that

Home repair or contractor fraud
1. Be an informed consumer. Take the time to call and
shop around before making a purchase. Take a friend
with you who may offer some perspective to help you
make difficult decisions.
2. Carefully read all contracts and purchasing agree-
ments before signing and make certain that all of your
requirements have been put in writing.
3. Make sure you understand all contract cancellation
and refund terms.
can help you steer clear of scams and swindles, and how 4. As a general rule take control of all of your transac-
you can to stay safe. tions as a consumer.
Health insurance fraud 5. Do not allow yourself to be pressured into making
1. Never sign blank insurance claim forms. purchases, signing contracts, or committing funds.
2. Never give blanket permission to a medical provider These decisions are yours and yours alone.
to bill for services rendered.
3. Ask your medical providers what they will charge If you suspect you’ve encountered financial
and what you will be expected to pay out-of-pocket.
4. Carefully review your insurer’s explanation of the abuse …
Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to talk about it with
benefits statement. Call your insurer and provider if you
have questions. someone you trust. You are not alone, and there are
5. .Do not do business with door-to-door or telephone people who can help. Doing nothing could only make it
salespeople who tell you that services of medical equip- worse. Keep handy the phone numbers and resources
ment are free. you can turn to, including the local police, your bank (if
6. Give your insurance/Medicare identification only to money has been taken from your accounts), and Adult
those who have provided you with medical services. Protective Services. To obtain the contact information
7. Keep accurate records of all health care appoint- for Adult Protective Services in your area, call the Elder-
ments. care Locator, a government sponsored national resource
8. Know if your physician ordered equipment for you line, at: 1-800-677-1116, or visit their website