Summer should be a time for fun and relaxation, not an opportunity for fraudsters to take advantage of Medicare users. Shield Your Info Against Identity Intruders Unfortunately, instances of fraud are on the rise. Whether it’s by phone, letter, or email, criminals regularly attempt to trick Medicare users into sharing ID numbers and other critical information. Here are seven quick tips to help our clients avoid these tactics and keep their information safer and more secure: • Protect your Medicare number the same way you would your Social Security number. For example, a legitimate Medicare representative will never call you and ask for your ID number. If you receive a text, call, or email asking for this information, do not provide it. Only your doctor or people you know should have access to your Medicare number. • Check your Medicare statements to ensure that all services and dates listed match those listed on your calendar. If you see a product or service listed that you didn’t receive, it could be fraudulent. MEDICARE SAFETY MASTERY
“You gave us excellent advice on the differences between Medicare ‘traditional’ versus Medicare Advantage, to get past the advertising hype. The selection of Medicare supplement plans has mostly been working. Humana’s frequent calls and emails about generics and their online delivery are annoying, as their online bulk cannot provide most of the prescriptions Shelly is on. Otherwise, it’s working. The new costs have been a bit of a shock. Using GoodRx and similar helps. What Our Clients Think!
• Don’t accept money or gifts in exchange for “free” medical care.
• Don’t allow anyone except your doctor or other Medicare providers to recommend services or review your medical records.
• Don’t join a Medicare health or drug plan over the phone unless you have contacted the appropriate parties to do so directly.
• Visit bit.ly/40NdZhD to learn how Medicare legitimately uses your personal information.
• Treat your Medicare card as you would a credit card. Protect it from loss or theft, and don’t share the information with anyone you don’t know or trust. If you suspect fraud, contact Medicare at (800) 633-4227 to report it and to learn more about how to protect yourself against future incidents. Additionally, please let us know if you have encountered fraud so we can use this information to better inform our clients about what to avoid and how to protect themselves more effectively.
Please pass that on.” –David McClellan
“You always listen to my questions and give me the best advice for my Medicare benefits.” –Leslie Freeman
—Jason Mackey
MEDICAREBLUEPRINT.COM
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