BBB Tip of the Week: Avoid Medicare scams during open enrollment

The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services holds an open enrollment period each year for those who qualify for health benefits. Most recent statistics indicate that 17 percent of U.S. residents were enrolled in 2015.

This means nearly 54 million people will be enrolling over the next several weeks, and scammers know it is a good time to strike. In addition, the changes in benefit identification numbers and card distribution creates more confusion in an already complicated process.

For many years, scammers have taken advantage of this enrollment period by calling and emailing people in an attempt to collect personal information, claiming their seeking to verify account details or trying sell them additional benefit packages.

This year’s scammers will have another way to target victims. Benefit recipients should be on the lookout for calls or emails explaining the card replacement process that may suggest a fee for the cards, a reduction in benefits or both. The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services will not call or email you to discuss card replacement or benefit packages. New cards will be automatically mailed and all benefits will stay the same.

Medicare open enrollment is available between now and December 7. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Protect your current Medicare/Medicaid number. Your Medicare number is the same as your Social Security number, which is one of the quickest avenues through which to steal your identity and commit health benefits fraud. Only carry your Medicare/Medicaid card with you if necessary. Your health care provider should have it on file if you have provided it in the past. Look for your new card starting in April and shred your current card with your Social Security number.

Be wary of calls and emails. If you are contacted by phone or email regarding issues with your benefits, you should be suspicious. Do not provide information over the phone or online, and call the Medicare fraud tip line immediately at 1-800-HHS-TIPS to report an attempt and ask questions.

Track your medical appointments and supplies. A great way for people to use your benefits is to use your number for health care appointments or medical supplies. Be sure to keep track of your appointments and medical supply benefits. Contact your medical provider if you receive an explanation of benefits notice for an appointment or equipment you did not schedule or order.

Double-check your prescriptions. Confirm that your pills or medications are for the prescribed amount and are generic or a brand-name product. Scammers can alter your prescriptions to pocket the difference in costs.