You should know the signs of Medicare fraud so that you can protect yourself and Medicare from fraudulent practices. To prevent fraud:
• Review your Medicare Summary Notices (MSNs) if you have Original Medicare, or your Explanation of Benefits (EOBs) if you are in a Medicare Advantage plan, to make sure that you and Medicare are being billed properly.
• Never provide your Medicare number or other personal information to someone other than a trusted health care professional.
• Do not agree to receive a health care service or item you feel you do not need.
• Remember that, although plans are allowed to send you mail, plan representatives are not allowed to e-mail you or visit your home without permission. However, your current insurance carrier is allowed to e-mail or call you with their offerings.
If you believe that you have been subject to fraudulent practices, you can easily report fraud by calling 800MEDICARE or the Inspector General’s fraud hotline (800-447-8477) or you can contact, Vermont SMP for help at 802-229-4731.
Medicare Rights Center - 9/3/14
