Edna's Medicare Fraud Prevention Resources
Protecting your Medicare benefits starts with knowing what to watch for. Use the resources below to learn how to recognize fraud, protect your Medicare information and know what to do if something doesn’t seem right.
Protecting your Medicare information is one of the best ways to prevent fraud.
Treat your Medicare card like a credit card.
Never share your Medicare number with people you do not know or trust.
Review your Medicare statements regularly.
Check your Medicare Summary Notice each month and make sure the services listed are services you actually received.
Be cautious of unexpected phone calls.
Medicare will not call you. If someone you don’t know calls asking for your Medicare number, hang up.
The same goes for emails or text messages asking for your Medicare information.
Medicare fraud affects more than just the individual who is targeted. Each year, an estimated $60 billion is lost from the Medicare Trust Fund due to fraud and abuse.
Medicare Fraud Can Lead To:
Higher Healthcare Cost
Fraud drives up healthcare costs and can lead to higher taxes for everyone.
Losses to the Medicare Trust Fund
Fraud reduces the funds available to provide care for Medicare beneficiaries.
Medical Identity Theft
If someone uses your Medicare number fraudulently, it could affect your medical records and treatment history.
Health Risks
False medical records or incorrect billing could lead to improper care in the future.
Personal Financial Losses
Fraud can sometimes result in unexpected charges or financial harm to the beneficiary.
If you believe you may be a victim of Medicare fraud, there are steps you can take.
Step 1: Contact the provider
If you recognize the provider, call them and ask them to explain the charge.
Step 2: Gather your information
Collect any bills, Medicare Summary Notices or documentation related to the suspicious charge.
Step 3: Contact the SMP (Senior Medicare Patrol)
SMP can help you review your situation and report suspected fraud.
Oklahoma SMP: in-state toll-free number, 800-763-2828, or our direct line, 405-521-6628.
National SMP: Toll Free 877-808-2468
Step 4: Continue monitoring your records
Watch your Medicare Summary Notice and other Medicare records for charges that do not make sense.
Keep checking regularly to make sure no additional suspicious charges appear.
Warn Your Community about Medicare Scams
If you believe a Medicare-related scam is going around in your community, email the Oklahoma Insurance Department Medicare Assistance Program (map@oid.ok.gov) with the details.
About the Medicare Assistance Program
The Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) is a division of the Oklahoma Insurance Department. The program is funded by three grants through the administration for Community Living;
- State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
- Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP)
- Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA)
These programs support education, counseling and outreach to help Oklahomans understand Medicare options, recognize and prevent fraud and connect with programs that may help lower Medicare costs.
If you need help or have questions, contact the Medicare Assistance Program:
In-State Toll Free: 800-763-2828
Direct Line: 405-521-6628
Stay Informed. Stay Protected.
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