Fraud Alert

By Mary Ellen Benzik, MD
  March 24, 2020

Hi, this article is to let you know that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (OIG) recommends the following ways to protect yourself from fraud:

• Be cautious of unsolicited requests for their Medicare or Medicaid numbers.
• Be suspicious of any unexpected calls or visitors offering COVID-19 tests or supplies. If your personal information is revealed, it may be used in other fraud schemes.
• Ignore offers or ads for COVID-19 testing or treatments on social media sites.
• A doctor or other trusted healthcare provider should assess your condition and approve any requests for COVID-19 testing.

"OIG is alerting the public to these fraud schemes so that patients and families –from their own homes – can take steps to ensure they are receiving legitimate medical care and protect themselves, said Christa A. Grimm, Principal Deputy Inspector General for OIG.  "We will not tolerate these scams in which fraudsters try to enrich themselves by preying on unsuspecting patients to steal personal and medical identity information. With our law enforcement partners, we will be vigilant in our investigation and enforcement against those who exploit this emergency.

"We remain committed to protecting the millions of beneficiaries across the country and supporting the dedicated health care professionals who are working so hard to serve the public during this pandemic."

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Last Updated 3/24/20