Medicare Fraud and Abuse Detection and Prevention Tips

Detection Tips

You should be suspicious if the provider tells you that:

• The test is free; he only needs your Medicare number for his records.
• Medicare wants you to have the item or service.
• They know how to get Medicare to pay for it.
• The more tests they provide the cheaper they are.
• The equipment or service is free; it won't cost you anything.

Be suspicious of providers that:

• Routinely waive copayments without checking on your ability to pay.
• Advertise "free" consultations to Medicare beneficiaries.
• Claim they represent Medicare.
• Use pressure or scare tactics to sell you high priced medical services or diagnostic tests.
• Bill Medicare for services you do not recall receiving.
• Use telemarketing and door-to-door selling as marketing tools.

How To Prevent Medicare Fraud

It is in your best interest and that of all citizens to report suspected fraud. Health care fraud, whether against Medicare or private insurers, increases everyone's health care costs, much the same as shoplifting increases the costs of the food we eat and the clothes we wear. If we are to maintain and sustain our current health care system, we must work together to reduce costs.

If you have any questions or comments on senior health nutrition, fitness, etc., go to the Senior Health Forum where we are talking about the following:

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